The masked bandits of Ottawa

Read my column on Capital Parent’s blog,
where you can also read the full current issue.

Raccoons are a great example of a wild animal that has adapted to its environment. Read on to learn more about one of our most prolific critters.

By Katharine Fletcher

Who’s the critter that resembles a masked bandit and sometimes makes a ruckus in our shed and garbage cans? It’s a raccoon, and the black face mask and white “eyebrows” are their signature markings.

Because they are omnivorous (meaning they eat practically anything) and extremely adaptable, they have adjusted well to urban life, as have skunks and coyotes.

Here in Ottawa, raccoons are commonly found where there are many ravines, wetlands, and urban forests providing shelter and food.

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Read the full story on Capital Parent’s blog.