 Data from molecular clock studies implies a divergence date from the common raccoon of anywhere between 26,000 and 69,000 years ago.Merriam described the Cozumel raccoon as being markedly smaller, both externally and cranially and easy to distinguish from the common raccoon because of its "broad black throat band and golden yellow tail, short posteriorly expanded and rounded nasals and peculiarities of the teeth".Its reduced teeth point to a long period of isolation.