The pygmy raccoon (Procyon pygmaeus) is found only on the island of Cozumel, Mexico. Its extremely limited range, small population, habitat pressures, disease risk, and increasing contact with people make the species particularly vulnerable to changes in its environment.

Pygmy raccoon conservation is a major focus of the Nature Conscious Tourism Initiative. NCTI supports research led by founder Nessie O’Neil, a graduate student in biology at Miami University, examining how tourism and human activity affect pygmy raccoon behavior, health, welfare, and conservation. This research is conducted under the appropriate Mexican governmental permissions and in collaboration with local researchers and conservation partners.

Our work extends beyond research. NCTI also provides funding for direct pygmy raccoon conservation and welfare efforts on Cozumel, including wildlife rescue, veterinary treatment, rehabilitation, and other needs identified by local partners. We also support education and outreach designed to improve public understanding of the species and reduce harmful human–wildlife interactions.

By supporting both scientific research and on-the-ground conservation, NCTI aims to better understand the challenges facing pygmy raccoons while helping address immediate needs for individual animals and the species as a whole.