Some of them live in hollow trees, so climbing helps. Climbing down headfirst must be easier for them too. Maybe that's why cats get stuck in trees; cats can't climb down headfirst. The raccoon's rear feet rotate 180o whenever it climbs down headfirst.
This helps them in finding safe nesting areas in dead trees, it helps them to escape predators, and it helps them find food, such as fruit, insects and birds eggs.
They are able to climb trees to escape predators.
Raccoons will try to escape a predator, usually by climbing a tree. If that is not possible, they have sharp claws and teeth that they will use for defense.
Raccoons are not known for their jumping ability. However, if cornered with no escape a raccoon may lunge and attempt to bite.
The claws of the raccoons have several uses:1.) They are used for climbing trees for shelter and to find fruit. 2.) They are used for foraging for food, such as digging up worms and grubs. 3.) They are used for grasping prey and other food items. 4.) Along with their teeth they are used for self defense.
Raccoons have excellent senses of hearing, smell and touch, all of which help them find food.
to help it survive
For climbing down a tree headfirst—an unusual ability for a mammal of its size—a raccoon rotates its hind feet so they are pointing backwards.
Their first line of defense is to escape, usually by climbing a tree. Failing that, they do have sharp teeth and claws and will use them for defense.
Geckos have many tiny pads on their feet that help them scale walls. This type of technology is used in products for humans too, such as types of adhesives.
The raccoons first line of defense is to escape, usually by climbing a tree. If that is not possible, they have sharp teeth and claws and will employ them to fight off a predator.
In "Where the Red Fern Grows," Old Dan demonstrates his skill and bravery in tree-climbing while hunting raccoons. He fearlessly pursues the raccoons up the tree, showcasing his agility and determination. His tree-climbing abilities play a crucial role in the narrative as he helps the protagonist, Billy, achieve their hunting goals.
There teeth help them eat hard shells to get to the nuts and barries.