Raccoons in Texas: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For

Yes. Raccoons are widespread throughout Texas in nearly every habitat. They're found from the eastern pine forests and cypress swamps of East Texas to the rocky outcrops of the Hill Country, the deserts of West Texas, and the coastal marshes of the Gulf Coast. Texas has one subspecies, the northern raccoon (Procyon lotor lotor), well adapted to the state's varied climate and terrain.

Raccoons are adaptable and live statewide, but your best odds are in eastern and central Texas, especially near rivers, creeks, and lakes. They also thrive in urban areas with accessible food and water. Start with state parks like Huntsville or Pedernales Falls, where raccoon signs are common near campgrounds.

See our state wildlife page for the next step.

Raccoons are primarily nocturnal. They start moving at dusk and are most active during the first few hours of night. In spring and summer, you might spot them in late afternoon near water. During winter, they reduce activity but still forage on mild nights. Early morning before dawn is also productive, especially near den sites or food sources.

Raccoon tracks look like tiny human handprints: five long toes on each foot. Front tracks are about 2-3 inches wide, hind tracks slightly larger. Look near mud, sand, or soft soil along streams and pond edges. Other signs include scat (often containing seeds or berries), den sites in hollow trees or brush piles, and rub marks on logs. Torn-up turf in lawns indicates feeding activity.

Texas is home to only one raccoon species, Procyon lotor, but coat color and size can vary by region. Northern raccoons (the subspecies in Texas) are larger and heavier than southern forms. Coat color ranges from greyish-brown to almost black, with most individuals showing the classic black face mask. Males are typically 20-30 pounds, females 12-20 pounds, though suburban raccoons sometimes grow larger due to abundant food.