The largest recorded wild raccoon weighed an impressive 28.4 kilograms (63 pounds) and measured 140 centimeters (55 inches) in total length. This remarkable individual represents the peak size documented for these adaptable mammals.
Understanding Raccoon Size and Variations
Raccoons exhibit significant variations in size, influenced by factors such as sex, season, and geographical location. While the record-holding raccoon stands out, most raccoons are considerably smaller.
- Typical Weight and Length: Adult raccoons generally weigh between 4 and 9 kilograms (9-20 pounds) and have a body length ranging from 40 to 70 centimeters (16-28 inches), plus a tail of about 20-40 centimeters (8-16 inches).
- Sexual Dimorphism: Males are typically larger and heavier than females, often weighing 15 to 20% more.
- Seasonal Fluctuations: A raccoon's weight can fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. At the onset of winter, due to significant fat storage, a raccoon may weigh twice as much as it does in the spring. This fat reserve is crucial for surviving colder months and periods of food scarcity.
The Record-Breaking Raccoon: A Giant Among Its Kind
The raccoon holding the record for the largest recorded size is an exceptional case. Its dimensions are significantly beyond the typical range, making it a truly enormous specimen.
Here's a breakdown of its impressive measurements:
| Characteristic | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Weight | 28.4 kg (63 lb) |
| Total Length | 140 cm (55 in) |
This particular raccoon is not only the largest documented raccoon but also holds the distinction of being the largest size ever recorded for any animal within the Procyonidae family, which includes other species like coatis and kinkajous.
Factors Influencing Raccoon Size
Several elements contribute to a raccoon's growth and overall size:
- Diet and Food Availability: Access to abundant and nutritious food sources, especially high-calorie options, allows raccoons to grow larger and store more fat. Urban and suburban environments often provide ample food from human waste, which can contribute to larger average sizes in these areas.
- Genetics: Like all animals, individual raccoons have a genetic predisposition that influences their potential for growth. Some simply have the genes to grow larger.
- Age: Raccoons continue to grow for their first few years of life, reaching their full adult size around 2-3 years old. Older individuals might be larger due to accumulated growth.
- Environment: Raccoons in areas with fewer predators and less competition for resources may have a better chance to reach their maximum size potential.
