Raccoon Families

DURATION OF FAMILIAL BONDS AND DISPERSAL PATTERNS FOR
RACCOONS IN SOUTH TEXAS
STANLEY D. GEHRT AND ERIK K. FRITZELL
Families of raccoons (Procyon [afar) were monitored during 1990-1992 on the Welder
Wildlife Refuge in south Texas to determine duration of familial bonds and patterns of
natal dispersal and philopatry. Analysis of the pre-dispersal movements of 11 family units
indicated family bonds often were maintained until juveniles' first mating season. Twelve
of 13 radiocollared males dispersed or died before their second mating season, including
eight that were known to be born on the study area, but all radiocollared females (n = 14)
remained within natal areas. Related females maintained extensive spatial overlap, and some
continued to den and travel together as adults.