In Costa Rica, you can encounter two distinct species of raccoons, each uniquely adapted to the diverse landscapes of this beautiful country. These raccoons belong to the Procyonidae family, a group of small to medium-sized, primarily arboreal mammals characterized by their five-digit feet, short and curved claws, and medium to long tails. Often referred to as the raccoon family, Procyonidae includes raccoons, coatis, kinkajous, olingos, ringtails, and cacomistles, all native to the New World. Another member of the Procyonidae family found in Costa Rica is the white nosed coati, an exotic animal well-known in forested areas such as rainforests, dry forests, and cloud forests.
Researchers use camera traps to study the behavior and habits of Costa Rican raccoons and other Procyonidae family members, capturing their natural behaviors without human interference.
The Common Raccoon: An Overview
Raccoons, sometimes spelled “racoons,” are members of the genus Procyon within the Procyonidae family. The name “raccoon” is derived from the indigenous North American word “arakun,” meaning “scratching hands.” In Costa Rica, you can find two species: the Crab-Eating Raccoon (Procyon cancrivorus) and the Northern Raccoon (Procyon lotor). The diet of the Northern Raccoon includes turtle eggs.
Crab-Eating Raccoons (Procyon cancrivorus)
Spanish Name:
- Mapache (or mapachín) cangrejero
Distribution:
- Found in southwestern Costa Rica (up to Orotina and the Central Valley) and throughout South America east of the Andes to Uruguay and Argentina.
- Habitats: Forested or disturbed areas near fresh or saltwater, from sea level to at least 1,200 meters (4,000 feet).
Physical Characteristics:
Size: Approximately 60 cm in length and 5 kg in weight (24 inches, 11 lbs), with males being larger than females. Adult males are typically larger and have longer tails than females, and they are often solitary. The tail length of the Crab-Eating Raccoon is proportionately longer compared to the Northern Raccoon, with males generally having longer tails than females.
Appearance: Hard to distinguish from the Northern Raccoon (P. lotor) in the field. The Crab-Eating Raccoon tends to have a stronger odor, less bushy and proportionately longer tail, and fur that is shorter, stiffer, and less dense. The underparts and pale tail bands are often more orangey. The back fur slants forward, starting with a whorl between the shoulders and meeting backward-facing fur along a V-shaped line between the ears. Legs and feet are dark brown or blackish.
Natural History:
Largely solitary and nocturnal, the Crab-Eating Raccoon forages on the ground and in or around water, feeding on freshwater crabs, mollusks, fish, frogs, insects, and possibly fruits. It is an adept climber and dens in hollow trees. Captive raccoons produce litters of two to six cubs, with births reported in July and August in Manuel Antonio National Park. Crab eating raccoons exhibit unique behavior and diet, often found near water sources where they hunt for their prey.
Northern Raccoon (Procyon lotor)
Spanish Name:
- Mapache (or mapachín) norteño
Distribution:
Range: From southern Canada to Chiriquí, Panama (including introduced populations in France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Russia). In Costa Rica, their range overlaps with the Crab-Eating Raccoon in the Central Valley and southwest regions. Additionally, the range of Northern Raccoons overlaps with that of the White Nosed Coatis in Costa Rica.
Habitats: Forested and disturbed areas near water, from sea level to at least 2,800 meters (9,200 feet).
Physical Characteristics:
- Size: About 50 cm in length and 4 kg in weight (20 inches, 9 lbs), smaller in Costa Rica compared to North America. Males are larger than females.
- Similar Species: The Northern Raccoon is distinguished from the Crab-Eating Raccoon by its pale gray forelimbs and hindlimbs.
Natural History:
Northern Raccoons are mostly nocturnal but can be active during the day, especially along coasts. Their diet includes crustaceans, fish, frogs, eggs, fruits, nuts, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates or carrion. In Manuel Antonio, land crabs and fruit are preferred foods. They den in tree hollows or ground burrows.
Home ranges vary, with males having larger ranges than females. Females’ home ranges often overlap with those of their relatives. Adult males are solitary and tend to disperse from their birthplaces, unlike females who often have overlapping ranges and continue to associate with one another. Breeding season involves a receptive female mating with a male for up to a week before driving him away. Gestation lasts about two months, resulting in one to seven young, who nurse for two to four months. Males disperse from their birthplace, while females typically stay in their natal areas. Northern Raccoons can live up to 20 years in captivity but rarely exceed five years in the wild.
Sounds:
- Northern Raccoons communicate through yelps, hisses, growls, whines, and churring sounds during social interactions, particularly between mothers and their young.
Explore the intriguing world of Costa Rican raccoons, and witness the unique behaviors and adaptations of these fascinating creatures. Whether you encounter the Crab-Eating Raccoon or the Northern Raccoon, you’ll be captivated by their resourcefulness and charm.
Olingos
Olingos, fascinating members of the Procyonidae family, share their lineage with coatis and raccoons. These elusive creatures are particularly intriguing due to their limited distribution and unique habitats. The Northern Olingo, in particular, is a species found only in select parts of Central America.
Distribution of the Northern Olingo
The Northern Olingo (Bassaricyon gabbii) inhabits a range extending from southern Honduras through Panama. This species prefers tropical wet forests and montane forests, thriving in lush, verdant environments. In Costa Rica, you can encounter Northern Olingos in several prime locations:
- Juan Castro Blanco National Park
- Arenal Volcano National Park
- Corcovado National Park
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- La Selva Biological Station
These regions provide the perfect habitat for Northern Olingos, with their dense foliage and abundant biodiversity.
The Western Lowland Olingo
Another intriguing member of the Bassaricyon genus, the Western Lowland Olingo, is primarily found in Panama. However, it may also venture into the southern areas of Costa Rica, particularly in the La Amistad International Park, which straddles the border between Costa Rica and Panama.
Habitats and Behavior
Olingos are arboreal, spending most of their lives in the treetops. They are nocturnal creatures, making them a rare sight for daytime visitors. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, nectar, and small animals, showcasing their adaptability and resourcefulness.
Conservation and Observation
Conservation efforts are crucial to protect the habitats of these unique animals. Preserving the tropical and montane forests of Central America ensures that Olingos continue to thrive. For those interested in observing these elusive creatures, visiting the national parks and reserves mentioned above offers the best chance of a sighting.
Why Olingos Matter
Olingos play a vital role in the ecosystem. As seed dispersers, they contribute to the health and regeneration of forests. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy, functioning ecosystem, making their conservation even more critical.
Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or a casual nature lover, the mysterious world of Olingos in Costa Rica is sure to captivate your imagination. From the Northern Olingo in the lush forests to the occasional sighting of the Western Lowland Olingo, these creatures add a touch of magic to the rich tapestry of Costa Rican wildlife.
Kinkajous
Kinkajous, also known as Martillas, are elusive creatures that prefer the cover of night, making them a rare sight during the day. These nocturnal animals are known for their distinctive calls, often heard as a short, barking “wee-wee-wee.”
Appearance and Behavior
Kinkajous are undeniably adorable with their big black eyes, small round ears, and soft, golden fur. Despite their cuteness, it’s often too dark to appreciate their beauty fully. Their prehensile tail, which is longer than their body, aids them in climbing through the treetops as they search for fruit, honey, and insects. This remarkable tail functions almost like a fifth limb, providing stability and agility in their arboreal habitat.
Habitat and Diet
Kinkajous thrive in tropical rainforests, where they can be found high in the canopy. They are frugivores, primarily feeding on fruits, but they also consume nectar, honey, and small insects. Their diet plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, contributing to the health and regeneration of their forest ecosystems.
White Nosed Coati
The White-Nosed Coati, also known as Pizote, is a diurnal mammal commonly spotted in Costa Rica. These fascinating creatures exhibit distinct social behaviors depending on their gender and age. Solitary males are frequently seen, while females and juveniles prefer to live in groups of up to 20 members and tend to avoid human encounters.
And that’s what you can expect to find in your travels to Costa Rica!