Where does the common raccoon dog live?
The common raccoon dog is a heavy-set, fox-like canid native to East Asia. It is named for its raccoon-like face markings, but its closest relatives are the true foxes. It is widespread in its native range, and invasive in Europe, where it was introduced for the fur trade. Since the early 20th century, it has been bred in great numbers for its fur, especially in China and Russia, and escaped or released animals have formed populations in Eastern Europe. It is also called the Chinese or Asian raccoon dog, to tell it apart from the Japanese raccoon dog.
What does the common raccoon dog eat?
It feeds on many animals and plant matter. It is unusual among canids: it hibernates during cold winters, and it can climb trees. A close relative, the tanuki, lives in Japan and is the only other living member of its genus.
Is the common raccoon dog endangered?
No: the IUCN lists it as Least Concern. In Europe, it is considered invasive.
