What's That Sound?

As I sat here typing, I began hearing strange sounds in the backyard. It's short and raspy. Sort of like "Ow! Ow!" Except it's not ow, it's more of an animal sound. I don't know what it is. A cat that needs a throat lozenge? A big crazy bird? Do raccoons make vocal noises? I grew up in a semi-rural area, so I should know this. But I don't. At one point is was fairly close to the window near where I'm sitting. I could hear it echoing across the yard. Whatever kind of monster it is, I'll be sure to double-check that I've locked the doors tonight.