Raccoon Dog Natural History
Size
These animals reach a length of 45- 71cm and a weight of 3- 7 kg.
Habitat and Distribution
This species prefers woodland and is even known to be able to climb trees. It can be found in China, the Korean peninsula, Vietnam, Russia and Japan. However, as a result of captive animals being released, it is now also found throughout most of mainland Europe too.
Age
They can live for 7 to 8 years in the wild or up to 13 in captivity.
Diet
Raccoon Dogs aren’t picky and will eat a wide range of food items including insects, small mammals, birds, lizards, amphibians, fish and molluscs, as well as feeding on carrion, fruits and nuts.
Groups and Breeding
Raccoon Dogs often live and hunt in pairs or as a small family group. However, some solitary individuals have also been recorded.
Threats
It is a common species but is hunted very heavily for its fur, even though it is also extensively farmed (especially in China). It produces a very popular fur for things like coat trims, and due to its price for lower end pelts is often used and resold as faux fur, with several high profile cases of this being exposed.
Interesting Facts
In some parts of their range, due to the extreme weather, they are also known as being the only canine species which hibernates.
The Raccoon Dogs During Your Day Out in Kent
We are home to two of these animals, a male and female named Bob and Pika. They joined our park in 2021 from Sandwich Wildlife Park and can be found in our Nocturnal House just next door to the Reptile House.
The more you know…
Want to know more about this animal? Check out our keeper blogs about them here.