Which of the following can be described as a vertebrate pest?

Raccoons are classified as vertebrate pests due to their behavior and ecological impact, particularly in agricultural settings. These mammals are known to forage for food in gardens, farms, and residential areas, causing damage to crops and property. Their omnivorous diet makes them well-suited for scavenging and raiding bird feeders, trash cans, and other sources of food, leading to economic losses for farmers and frustration for homeowners.

While other animals like cattle, horses, and cats can also interact with agricultural ecosystems, they are not typically characterized as pests in the same context. Cattle and horses are domesticated animals primarily raised for agricultural purposes, and while they can cause issues if not managed properly, they are essential for farming operations. Cats, although they can be feral and impact wildlife populations, are often valued for their role in controlling rodent populations on farms. However, their classification varies significantly from that of raccoons, which are inherently more disruptive in terms of pest behavior.