Raccoon is a powerful spirit guide and has many lessons to teach us. They are an interesting mix of intelligence, resourcefulness mixed with a general penchant for getting into mischief.
As a wildlife rehabilitator, I have raised and released many orphaned and injured raccoons. I have learned many lessons from them and they have also been a source of parental like frustration!
Symbolism/Representations
Bravery
Confidentiality
Curious
Dexterity
Disguise
Emphatic
Intelligent
Protection
Versatility
Raccoon Biology
Raccoons have a reputation! They are easy to spot with their tell-tale mask and dexterous paws.
I have raised many raccoons in wildlife rehabilitation and as babies, they are adorable and sweet. But once they become teenagers - look out - they are ready to go!
Raccoons are highly intelligent. One of the hardest things about wildlife rehabilitation is the raccoons figure out how to open their enclosures. They will watch you intently and then mimic your hands with their paws.
The raccoon adapts well to a variety of eco-systems including urban areas. They are very good at solving problems and learning to find food sources. Sometimes that means figuring out how to get the lid of the garbage can.
Fun Fact: Raccoons share a common ancestor with bears who are in a separate family. So if you have a bear totem or spirit you may also relate well to raccoons.
If you want to learn more about raccoons read my wildlife article That Rascally Raccoon.
Two of my first rehabilitation raccoons raised and released. Photo by Ame Vanorio
What Does Raccoon Teach Us?
Raccoon teaches us to make ourselves over and begin anew. They are a symbol of transformation and opportunity.
The raccoon is highly intelligent and curious and teaches us that those are good things. There’s nothing wrong with being the class nerd!
Making masks is a popular tradition in many cultures. We use masks in religious ceremonies, dances, and dress up on Halloween. On a deeper level, the raccoon teaches us that masks are a symbol of mysticism and often lead to higher states of understanding.
Masks also represent transformation and can help us change into what or who we wish to become. If a raccoon crosses your path it may be a sign to remove the mask and to be your more authentic self.
Raccoons are very dexterous and teach us to use our hands in creative endeavors. Paint, draw, knit, build furniture or a birdhouse.
Resourcefulness is a great strength of the raccoon. They often use tools to help them get what they want. Are you struggling to get what you want? Think about the resources that are available to you.
Family connections are very important to raccoons and raccoon mothers are some of the best in the animal kingdom. They take the time to thoroughly instruct their kits and are slow to wean them.
Raccoons are very social as juveniles and wildlife rehabilitators release them in groups so they can support each other during the transition to freedom.
Raccoons Around the World ( Cultural Symbolism)
Native American
The word for raccoon in my ancestor’s Cree language is ‘pisiskēs’ which means one who picks up things. Raccoons are often seen in Native American mythos as a trickster.
Myths about raccoons show them playing tricks on the other animals and humans however, they often teach an important lesson. A Menominee Legend, The Deceived Blind Men, has a raccoon teaching two men to stop fighting and get along together.
Some Native American cultures had Raccoon Clans or large familial groups. These included the Muskogee Creek (whose Raccoon Clan is the Wotkalgi) the Chippewa ( Esiban,) the Chickasaw, the Shawnee, and the Menominee.
There are several tribes, like the Lenape, Shawnee, and Iroquois, that have a Raccoon Dance among their tribal dance traditions.
Below is a video that I made on my farm page which is footage of a young raccoon in rehabilitation.
The Norse had the goddess Fulla who is the confidant of Frigg. She is the goddess of secrets, council, and beauty. She was one of the goddesses that helped to heal Baldr’s horse. Fulla’s spirit animal is a raccoon.
Read more about Norse Spirit Animals in our blog.
Japanese tanuki or raccoon-dog is actually not related to American raccoons at all. They are related to wolves and foxes and are native to Asia. The tanuki is also considered a shapeshifter and trickster.
Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation
The raccoon is a common animal and thrives in a variety of environments due to its adaptability. They are native to the Americas but have spread throughout the world due to the pet trade and being stow-aways on ships.
Raccoons can and do carry a number of diseases which is why many rehabbers and some states have vaccination programs.
Raccoon Dreams
Raccoons often come to us when we are struggling to find a solution. Pay attention to any clues your spirit guide gives you to expand your thinking and use the resources available to you.
Use your problem-solving skills.
The raccoon can also symbolize deceit and trickery. Are you being dishonest with yourself or trying to hide from a problem or conflict? Is someone deceiving you?
Look carefully at your situation.
Careers
As you can imagine, raccoon people are often great actors, musicians, and artists. People who work with raccoons are curious and have wonderful imaginations.
Raccoon people also make great engineers and mechanics who need intelligence and dexterity to build or repair things.
Author Ame Vanorio loves raccoons and is an environmental educator and licensed wildlife rehabilitator. An eclectic pagan she does our Facebook and Twitter pages.
As pagans, witches, and shamans, we connect with animals in many ways, both living and in the spirit world. We connect with animals through our heredity and family structures. We also have close relationships with our pets and even the wildlife we observe in our backyards.