"Procyon lotor elucus" is a scientific name given to the North American raccoon. However, there are various synonyms for this name that are commonly used in everyday language. Some common synonyms for the North American raccoon are "ring-tailed cat," "washer," "coon," "masked bandit," and "trash panda." While these names may sound playful or even derogatory, they allude to the raccoon's unique physical features and behavior. Despite being labeled as a nuisance animal at times, North American raccoons are fascinating creatures with incredible adaptability, intelligence, and resourcefulness. These synonyms for the North American raccoon remind us of the animal's place in our natural world and the importance of coexisting with the creatures that share our environment.