Raccoon Dog
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A short stature and black eye patches serve as cues for the common name of Lycaon pictus, the Raccoon Dog.
They are native canids of East Asia, where they inhabit a variety of habitats, including residential areas.
As one of a few, or only canids whose fur is used for commercial purposes, factory farming of the animal, has caused alarm among animal welfare groups such as the Humane Society.
Because of their adaptability, their population levels, while decreasing, are considered fairly stable, and the IUCN lists them as a species of least concern.
The picture highlights the animal's short, stocky build.
© 2010 Patricia A. Michaels