Presence of raccoon (Procyon lotor) in Doñana National Park and its surroundings

A study confirms the presence of raccoons (Procyon lotor) in Doñana National Park and its surroundings, marking their first documented occurrence in the region. This invasive species, native to North and Central America, has shown remarkable adaptability to diverse ecosystems and a strong ability to colonize anthropogenic environments due to its opportunistic behavior. The research, published in Galemys, highlights the potential ecological impact of this introduction, which likely stems from deliberate or accidental releases linked to fur industry interest and pet trade popularity. The study employed field surveys and data analysis to document raccoon sightings, contributing critical insights for conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fernández-Aguilar, X., Molina-Vacas, G., Ramiro, V., Carro, F. A., Barasona, J. Á., Vicente, J., & Gutiérrez, C. (2012). Presence of raccoon (Procyon lotor) in Doñana National Park and its surroundings. Galemys, Spanish Journal of Mammalogy, 24, 76–79. https://doi.org/10.7325/galemys.2012.n06