The most common and well-known is the North American Raccoon , which ranges from northern Canada and most of the United States southward into South America. It has a black “mask” across the eyes, and the tail is ringed with 5 to 10 black bands. The Raccoon is stout with short legs, a pointed muzzle, and small erect ears, the North American raccoon is 30 to 36 inches long, including the 10-inch tail. They typically weigh about 22 pounds or less, although large males may grow to more than 40lb. The North American raccoon’s fur is shaggy and coarse, and its is iron-gray to blackish with brown overtones.