TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A North American raccoon found in Taoyuan’s Bade District will go up for adoption unless the animal’s owner can be found, the city’s Animal Protection Office said.
The raccoon was found wandering in a field on Oct. 29. After attempts to find its owner failed, a resident reported it to the Animal Protection Office, per CNA.
The male raccoon is unusually large, which suggests it was well-cared for, the office said. It has been offered a variety of foods, including pet food and fruits.
The raccoon has a particular fondness for chocolate cookies. If given Oreos, it will carefully separate the cookie and cream filling before eating.
It is legal to keep raccoons as pets in Taiwan. If no owner comes forward, the raccoon will be available for adoption in December.
Potential adopters will be screened and evaluated due to the animal's specific environmental needs. This is to ensure they can provide the raccoon with a suitable environment and afford the costs of caring for it to prevent future abandonment.
North American raccoons are the most common type of raccoon. The species is easily recognizable by black mask-like markings around the eyes and its ringed tail.
While raccoons are classified as carnivores, they are omnivorous, feeding on a diverse diet that includes crayfish, rodents, fruit, and crops. Raccoons are highly adaptable to human environments, thriving in urban areas.
