Raccoon fact of the day — it isn’t a sense of sight or smell that makes a raccoon a stealthy nocturnal forager, but rather touch. In fact, the part of the brain that is responsible for sensory function is dedicated overwhelmingly to tactile impulses — a full two thirds, which is more than any other known animal. I know I post a lot of raccoons, but that’s who likes to come visit at night. Nikon D810 with Nikkor 17-35mm lens (at 17mm) ISO 500, f/14 at 1/160th of a second, Cognisys camera box, trail monitor and remote flash units.
According to PBS Nature — one theory is that the black mask around a raccoon’s eyes helps deflect glare and helps with night vision. I think it’s just so he looks cool.
I couldn’t help but notice that this raccoon strikes an almost mirror image (albeit heading in the opposite direction) just beneath your delightful lemur icon included in the banner of your website. Real nice, Sean!
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Raccoon fact of the day — it isn’t a sense of sight or smell that makes a raccoon a stealthy nocturnal forager, but rather touch. In fact, the part of the brain that is responsible for sensory function is dedicated overwhelmingly to tactile impulses — a full two thirds, which is more than any other known animal. I know I post a lot of raccoons, but that’s who likes to come visit at night. Nikon D810 with Nikkor 17-35mm lens (at 17mm) ISO 500, f/14 at 1/160th of a second, Cognisys camera box, trail monitor and remote flash units.
He really looks like he’s wearing a mask across his eyes! Does that distinctive marking serve any purpose?
According to PBS Nature — one theory is that the black mask around a raccoon’s eyes helps deflect glare and helps with night vision. I think it’s just so he looks cool.
Such a great image! Thanks for the interesting info about their senses.
Thanks Honora. Appreciate the comment.
That totally explains why raccoons are such amazing lovers. I mean, so I’ve heard.
I couldn’t help but notice that this raccoon strikes an almost mirror image (albeit heading in the opposite direction) just beneath your delightful lemur icon included in the banner of your website. Real nice, Sean!
Quite right Sue. And a very similar tail (albeit not as long)
I like the angle of the photo. Interesting raccoon trivia.