Gedaan met laden. U bevindt zich op: Vertebrate consumption by raccoon (Procyon lotor) in two Walloon forests: insights from DNA metabarcoding on faecal samples
Vertebrate consumption by raccoon (Procyon lotor) in two Walloon forests: insights from DNA metabarcoding on faecal samples
The raccoon (Procyon lotor) is an invasive alien species that is rapidly expanding in Belgium and Europe. To assess the impact of this species on local biodiversity, a better understanding of its diet is necessary. In this study, we analyzed the diet of 107 raccoons based on their scats, collected over a two-year period in two forests in Wallonia, Belgium. Using a standardized environmental DNA metabarcoding pipeline, we mapped the vertebrate fauna in their scats. The results confirm that the raccoon is an omnivore with a highly varied diet, including amphibians, fish, birds, and small mammals. In addition to common species, such as the common frog and common toad, vulnerable and rare species were detected, such as the fire salamander, great crested newt, river/brook lamprey and European honey buzzard. This study demonstrates that the raccoon is an opportunistic feeder occupying a broad ecological niche. Further research is needed to determine the exact quantitative impact on native fauna and ecosystems, as well as to map its potential effects on agriculture and urban areas.
Lees de publicatie
- Publicatiedatum
- Oktober 2026
- Publicatietype
- Onderzoeksrapport
- Thema's
- Natuur en bos
- Auteur(s)
- Nick Dillen, Charlotte Van Driessche, Teun Everts, Sabrina Neyrinck, David Halfmaerten, Hanne Danneels, Rein Brys
- Reeks
- Reports of the Research Institute for Nature and Forest 2026 (43)