- The raccoon (/rəˈkuːn/ or US: /ræˈkuːn/, Procyon lotor), also spelled racoon and sometimes called the common raccoon to distinguish it from other species, is a mammal native to North America. It is the largest of the procyonid family, having a body length of 40 to 70 cm (16 to 28 in), and a body weight of 5 to 26 kg (11 to 57 lb). Its grayish coat mostly consists of dense underfur, which insulates it against cold weather. Three of the raccoon’s most distinctive features are its extremely dexterous front paws, its facial mask, and its ringed tail, which are themes in the mythologies of the indigenous peoples of the Americas relating to the animal. The raccoon is noted for its intelligence, as studies show that it is able to remember the solution to tasks for at least three years. It is usually nocturnal and omnivorous, eating about 40% invertebrates, 33% plants, and 27% vertebrates.
- Goose Island Natural Area Preserve (dnr.wa.gov)
This small sandy accretion island in Grays Harbor has supported a large colony of nesting seabirds including gulls, brants, long billed curlew-and historically-Caspian terns. Brown pelicans utilize the island after breeding season. Following submersion during severe winter storms, the shifting dunes on this island have been re-colonized by vegetation and nesting birds as the ecosystem rebuilds.
