Raccoons are a common sight in many urban and suburban environments, recognizable by their distinctive masked faces and ringed tails. While their appearance can be endearing, remember that raccoons are wild animals. They are not friendly and should not be approached or considered as pets. Their interactions with humans are driven by instinct and the pursuit of food and shelter.
Understanding Raccoon Behavior
Raccoons are highly intelligent and adaptable creatures, which contributes to their frequent presence near human dwellings. They are primarily nocturnal, most active during the night. However, they may be seen during the day, especially if a mother is foraging for her young.
Their opportunistic scavenging nature draws them to readily available food sources, such as unsecured trash cans, pet food left outdoors, and gardens. Their curiosity and problem-solving skills can lead them to approach human spaces. This apparent boldness reflects their resourcefulness, not domestication or friendliness.
Dangers of Close Contact
Interacting closely with raccoons presents several health risks and potential for injury. Raccoons are known carriers of various diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets. Rabies is a serious concern, as raccoons are a primary terrestrial carrier of the virus in many regions of the United States. This viral infection affects the nervous system and can be fatal if not treated promptly after exposure, which can occur through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva on an open wound.
Another significant health risk is raccoon roundworm. This parasite’s eggs are passed in raccoon feces and can be accidentally ingested by humans, particularly children, through contact with contaminated soil or objects. While rare, human infections can be severe, potentially causing neurological damage, blindness, or affecting organs. Raccoons can also transmit other diseases like leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through their urine that can lead to fever, muscle aches, and kidney or liver problems.
Beyond disease transmission, direct physical contact carries the risk of bites and scratches. Even seemingly docile raccoons can become aggressive if they feel threatened, cornered, or are protecting their young. Their sharp claws and teeth can inflict painful wounds that require immediate medical attention to prevent infection and assess the risk of disease transmission. Feeding raccoons or attempting to pet them increases these risks by habituating them to human presence and reducing their natural wariness.
Living Alongside Raccoons Safely
To minimize potential conflicts and ensure safety, it is important to implement preventative measures around homes and properties. Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids or store them in a garage or shed to prevent raccoons from accessing food waste. Bringing pet food indoors, especially at night, eliminates another common attractant. Blocking access to potential den sites, such as attics, sheds, and spaces under decks, can deter raccoons from making a home on your property.
If a raccoon is encountered, it is important to observe it from a distance and avoid direct interaction. Do not approach, attempt to feed, or try to pet the animal. Maintaining a calm demeanor and backing away slowly, without making direct eye contact, can prevent the raccoon from feeling threatened. If a raccoon appears aggressive or sick, or if it has entered your home, contact local animal control or wildlife professionals for assistance. Attempting to handle a raccoon on your own can lead to injury or disease transmission.