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The Raccoon (Procyon lotor) is a medium-sized mammal native to North America and the most widespread species of the family Procyonidae. Raccoons are a plantigrade species, that means that the feet only touch the ground with their soles in normal pace. Humans and primates are examples of other plantigrade species. The front paws of raccoons are composed of five structured fingers just like the hands of primates, though lacking an opposable thumb. With their vibrissae (specialized hairs, employed for tactile sensation) above their sharp, non-retractable claws they are able to identify objects before actually touching them. Raccoons are omnivorous and usually most active during the night. The raccoon plays an important role in the mythology of the Native Americans. The word raccoon is derived from the word "ahrah-koon-em" which was the pronunciation used by the Algonquin for the animal, meaning "the one who rubs, scrubs and scratches with its hands."

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