Raccoons are frequently observed traversing suburban lawns, leading many to wonder if grass forms a part of their diet. While they frequent grassy areas, the green blades are not a primary food source. Raccoons are omnivores, and their presence on lawns is typically driven by a search for other food items found within the turf.
Understanding Raccoon Diets
Raccoons consume a diverse array of foods, adapting their diet to what is seasonally available. In natural settings, their diet includes fruits, berries, nuts, grains, and insects such as grubs, earthworms, snails, and crayfish. Small animals like mice, voles, shrews, rabbits, and bird eggs or young birds also contribute to their sustenance. Fish and amphibians are frequently consumed, with crayfish being a significant food item during summer months.
Their omnivorous nature allows them to thrive in diverse habitats. In urban and suburban areas, raccoons readily scavenge human food waste from trash cans and dumpsters, and consume pet food left outdoors. This dietary flexibility enables them to accumulate fat reserves in the fall, which helps them endure colder winter periods.
Why Raccoons Visit Lawns
Raccoons visit lawns to forage for insect larvae and other invertebrates. They primarily seek white grubs, larvae of beetles, along with earthworms and other soil-dwelling insects. These grubs are a rich source of protein and fat. Raccoons possess a keen sense of smell that allows them to detect these insects beneath the turf.
When foraging for grubs, raccoons often cause damage to lawns by digging and tearing up patches of turf. They use their agile front paws to lift and flip over sod, creating noticeable disturbed areas. This activity typically occurs at night, as raccoons are nocturnal. Besides grubs, raccoons might also visit lawns to find fallen fruits from nearby trees or to access pet food bowls inadvertently left outside.
Deterring Raccoon Presence
To discourage raccoons, addressing accessible food sources is an effective strategy. Securing trash cans with locking lids or bungee cords prevents raccoons from rummaging through discarded food. Bringing pet food bowls indoors eliminates another common attractant. Harvesting ripe fruits from trees and promptly removing any fallen produce also reduces their appeal.
Managing grub infestations in the lawn can significantly reduce raccoon activity. Applying grub treatments, such as predatory nematodes, can help control grub populations. Other deterrents include motion-activated lights or sprinklers, which can startle raccoons and encourage them to leave. Some strong-scented repellents, like cayenne pepper or ammonia, may temporarily deter them but often require frequent reapplication to remain effective.