Food Habits of the Raccoon in Eastern Texas

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Abstract
The food habits of raccoons were studied along the Neches River in 3 counties of eastern Texas in 194042. Field studies were supplemented by laboratory analysis of 344 scats collected in all months and by 23 stomachs and 11 intestines obtained in winter. Acorns and crayfish constitute >1/2 of the yearly diet and both are consumed in considerable amt. at all seasons. Persimmons and grapes were utilized heavily when available and other fruits in smaller amts. Insects and other invertebrates formed an important part of the diet. Vertebrates were eaten sparingly but spp. of water snakes were preyed upon as were winter and spring concs. of water fowl. Raccoons were found to concentrate in timbered river bottoms during the winter and spring, feeding largely on acorns and crayfish. Under these conditions they are readily trapped. In the summer and autumn the populations appear to be dispersed through the uplands as well as bottomlands in search of seasonal foods.

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