Raccoons frequently open trash cans, a behavior stemming from their remarkable adaptability and intelligence (Procyon lotor). These masked mammals exploit resources created by human activity, with residential trash cans serving as a reliable, predictable food source. Their success in accessing secured containers results from specialized physical traits combined with impressive cognitive abilities. Understanding these mechanisms is the first step toward effective prevention.
The Raccoon’s Specialized Anatomy and Dexterity
The primary mechanism allowing a raccoon to open latches and pry off lids is the unique structure of its front paws, often compared to miniature human hands. The five highly flexible digits lack webbing and can grasp and manipulate objects with precision, a trait unusual among non-primate carnivores. This dexterity is supported by a strong sense of touch that largely replaces their reliance on sight for foraging in the dark.
Nearly two-thirds of the sensory perception area in the raccoon’s cerebral cortex is dedicated to interpreting tactile impulses, a proportion higher than in almost any other studied animal. The front paws are coated in a thin, horny layer that becomes pliable when wet, enhancing their sensitivity. This tactile focus allows a raccoon to “see” with its hands, feeling for weak points in a container seal or the mechanism of a latch.
Raccoons exhibit high intelligence and strong problem-solving skills, which they apply to overcoming human-made barriers. Studies involving complex puzzle boxes simulating latches show that raccoons can learn solutions and remember them for at least three years. This cognitive ability allows them to quickly generalize successful techniques, such as twisting a knob or pulling a lever, to different security systems.
Why Raccoons Target Residential Trash
Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores, consuming a wide variety of food sources including plants, insects, and small vertebrates. This dietary flexibility allows them to thrive in diverse environments, including dense urban areas. Residential trash cans represent a concentrated source of high-calorie food scraps, providing an energy reward that outweighs the effort of accessing the container.
The urban environment offers a dense, predictable food supply with relatively low risk compared to foraging in the wild. The strong scent of decomposing food waste, particularly meat and grease, serves as an irresistible beacon for their keen sense of smell. Since raccoons are primarily nocturnal, the quiet of residential neighborhoods at night provides the window for undisturbed foraging.
The presence of one successful raccoon can lead to others targeting the same resource due to learned behavior. Juveniles learn successful foraging techniques from their mother, and individuals can observe and copy the actions of others. This quick learning cycle means a successful breach of one trash can is likely to lead to repeated attempts across the neighborhood.
Practical Methods for Securing Trash Cans
Securing trash cans requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the raccoon’s strength and intelligence. The most effective non-mechanical solution is to remove the attractant by storing cans inside a garage or shed until the morning of collection day. If indoor storage is not possible, the focus must shift to physical barriers and deterrence.
Mechanical solutions should prevent both lifting the lid and tipping the container. Bungee cords must be stretched between the lid handle and a solid anchor point on the can’s body or a fixed object, as raccoons easily slip cords placed only over the top. Heavy-duty metal latches or carabiner clips bolted through the can and lid provide a robust, semi-permanent security measure.
For large, rolling municipal bins, a heavy-duty ratchet strap cinched around the body and over the lid offers resistance to both lifting and tipping forces. To reduce odor attraction, all food waste should be double-bagged, and the trash can should be cleaned regularly with a mixture of water and ammonia or bleach. The strong odor of ammonia mimics a predator’s urine, acting as a temporary scent deterrent when soaked rags are placed near the container.
Motion-activated devices can also be used as a deterrent. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers startle the animal with a sudden burst of light or water, discouraging it from lingering near the container. Combining multiple methods, such as a locking mechanism with a scent deterrent and minimizing outdoor time, makes the foraging effort too high for the caloric reward.