Raccoon Dog

 The Raccoon Dog  (Nyctereutes procyonoides) is a small canid species that highly resembles a raccoon. It's aliases include Tanuki, Magnut, and Neoguri.

Appearance
Raccoon dog's skulls resemble South American foxes than raccoons. Their skulls are small, sturdy, and elongated. Due to their omnivorous diet, Tanukis have long intestines that are 1.5-2 times longer than other canids. Their torsos long, with short, sturdy, and relatively straight feet. Ears are very short, and can sometimes, be barely seen. They are well adapted to their cold climate. Their winter fur is dense and coarse with hairs reaching lengths of 12 centimeters! Their coat colors vary with the seasons. Typically, however, it is usually a dirt-brown color, with a dark brown to black tail. They do not, however have their ringed tail, or their mask. A dark stripe lays on the shoulders and broadens on its shoulders. Their winter coat is a lighter color or reddish. Their snout is short and pointed. They are usually 4.7-7.1 inches in height and weigh anywhere between 6.6-15 lbs. Cases of albinism and melanism are rare, but do occur.

Behavior
Their behavior is very unique among canines! Neoguris eat a vast range of food from hedgehogs, to tortoise eggs. They are seen feasting on waterfowls, shrews, pumpkins, geese, and watermelons etc. They have been known to climb trees to chase their prey. When hungry they are known to make a distinct cat-like meow. Tanukis do not bark like foxes, but growl and whine.

Wildcats, badgers, falcons, hawks, wolves, and foxes are their predators. Humans, however are their worst enemies. People often view them as pests and hunt them for their fur or for game. 70,000 raccoon dogs are killed in Japan each year for fur trade, food purposes, and for medical uses. Their fur is commonly viewed as a artificial due to their coarse feel.

Raccoon dog mating season begins in early February to late April, where raccoon dog males occasionally fight for mates, in a very harmless fashion, where they are known to yelp and growl. Then gestation usually lasts for 2 months. Pups are born in the early months of Summer. 6-7 pups is average with an occasional 15-16 pups! Pups are blind, toothless, and covered in short fur. They open their eyes after 9-10 days with teeth sprouting at 14-16 days. Pups then eat food brought to them a 3 weeks or 1 month of age. They are fully grown at 4.5 months. Fathers do play a large role in the development of the pups. These monogamous animals form their relationships in Fall. They may be in groups of 6 or be living solitary.

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