Urban Raccoons in Panama City, Panama
If you’ve walked along the Cinta Costera or Amador Causeway in Panama City around sunset, you might’ve seen something unexpected—raccoons. These little animals have become a common sight in the city, especially near the waterfront.
What kind of raccoons are they?
The raccoons spotted in Panama City are likely crab-eating raccoons, a species native to Central and South America. They’re similar to the raccoons found in North America, but more adapted to tropical and coastal environments.
They’re often seen foraging near rocks, dipping their paws into the water, or cautiously moving along the seawall. You may seem them near public trash bins or in small groups near green spaces. They are replacing many of the bins on the Cinta Costera with the ‘animal proof’ versions - between the raccoons and various sea birds and vultures, they do make a mess of the rubbish. Thought the grounds crews really do an amazing job of keeping things picked up!
Why are they in the city?
There are a few reasons why raccoons are becoming more common in urban Panama:
Loss of natural habitat: As more land is developed, animals like raccoons move into cities looking for food and shelter.
Easy food: Between trash bins, food scraps, and handouts from people, raccoons find it easier to eat in urban areas.
They’re adaptable: Raccoons are smart, curious, and comfortable in different environments, which helps them adjust to city life.
Where to see them
You're most likely to spot raccoons:
On the Cinta Costera, especially along the rocks near the water.
Around the Amador Causeway, near the Smithsonian’s Punta Culebra Nature Center.
In or near Parque Natural Metropolitano, a protected green space in the city.
They tend to come out around sunset or early evening, but we have often seen them in the mornings just after sunrise.
