Montana Field Guide

Black mask over the eyes and alternating rings of yellowish-white and black on the tail. Flat-footed and body weight variable. Total length: 26 to 40 inches. Weight: 12 to 35 pounds.

Non-migratory. Juveniles may exhibit impressive dispersal movements (Kaufmann 1982).

Inhabits stream and lake borders near wooded areas or rocky cliffs. Most abundant in riparian and wetland habitats. Mostly nocturnal and very intelligent. May use front paws to find food. Sometimes dunks food in water before eating. Does not hibernate. Uses hollow logs, trees, and rock crevices as den sites (FWP). Forested riparian habitat--river & stream valleys. Possibly also associated with prairie wetlands(?). Although tree dens are most common, burrows & crevices, etc. also used. (Kaufmann 1982).

Omnivorous, will eat whatever is available. Feeds on carrion, mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, amphibians, grains, nuts, and fruits. Also, readily consumes food prepared for animal or human consumption (FWP). Omnivorous, unspecialized gut. Uses diverse array of foods. Relative proportions vary with season & locale. Plants often more important than animals--fruits, nuts, crops, seeds, etc. In spring invert's & vert's most important (Kaufmann 1982).

Usually associated with nearby aquatic habits. Washing food may simply be dabbling at waters edge. Fixed motor pattern used to search for prey. Extremely sensitive fore- paws (Kaufmann 1982).

Breeds during February and March; 63 day gestation; young born during April or May; litter size is usually two to four (FWP). Mates Feb-Jun with peak activity in Mar. Most litters born in May, some as late as Sep--late litters have little chance of surviving. Young are mobile within 10 weeks. Spend 1st winter with or near mother (Kaufmann 1982).