The common raccoon (Procyon lotor) is a small, nocturnal mammal originally from Eurasia, which migrated to America through a land bridge. Once in the New World, raccoons thrived while their Eurasian relatives became extinct due to competition with civets. Characterized by their slender bodies and long tails, raccoons are often mistaken for small bears, as reflected in various languages—like the German name "Waschbär" meaning "washing bear." Their omnivorous diet has led to the loss of some carnivorous traits, although they retain sharp teeth. Raccoons are generally solitary, with females raising up to four offspring. Currently, their populations are stable and not threatened.