When raccoons are scared do they play dead?

Yes, raccoons can exhibit a behavior known as "playing dead" when they are threatened or scared. This response, known as thanatosis, involves the raccoon becoming motionless and unresponsive, which may deter predators that prefer live prey. However, this behavior is not very common and is not their primary defense mechanism. Raccoons typically rely more on their agility and climbing ability to escape danger.