Raccoons are a common sight in urban and suburban environments, recognized by their distinctive masked faces and ringed tails. These adaptable mammals frequently interact with human habitats, seeking shelter and food in residential areas. Encountering young raccoons can raise concerns, especially if a mother is not visible. Understanding their natural behaviors, particularly maternal care, helps determine when intervention is necessary or when to observe from a distance.
Raccoon Maternal Care
Female raccoons are dedicated mothers, typically giving birth to litters of three to five kits in early spring, usually between March and May. Newborn kits are born blind and deaf, reliant on their mother for warmth, nourishment, and protection. Their eyes open around three to four weeks, and by six to eight weeks, they begin exploring the den site.
Around two to three months old (8 to 12 weeks), kits begin to forage outside the den under their mother’s watchful eye. Weaning occurs after about 12 weeks, but young raccoons remain with their mother to learn survival skills. They stay with her through their first winter, dispersing around one year of age or by the following spring.
Why a Mother Might Appear Absent
Observing young raccoons alone does not automatically indicate abandonment, as mothers frequently leave their kits temporarily. A common reason for a mother’s absence is foraging for food to support herself and her litter. Raccoons are primarily nocturnal, so a mother might search for food during the day.
Mothers also frequently move kits between multiple den sites, a behavior that can appear as abandonment during relocation. This move often occurs if a den is disturbed, becomes too warm, or is no longer secure. A mother can only move one kit at a time, making the process lengthy and potentially leaving some kits alone for hours. Even if a den has been disturbed by human activity, the mother may still be nearby and will attempt to retrieve her young once she feels safe. Mothers will search diligently for their offspring.
Identifying a Truly Orphaned Raccoon
Determining if a young raccoon is truly orphaned requires careful observation for specific indicators. A kit needs assistance if it is injured, showing bleeding wounds or broken bones. Signs of poor health, such as being covered with insects (flies, maggots, or their eggs), or appearing cold, limp, or unresponsive, indicate a problem. Continuous crying for over 24 hours can also signal distress.
An orphaned status is also likely if the mother is confirmed deceased or permanently removed. If a very young kit with closed eyes is found alone, or an older, mobile kit approaches humans without fear, this indicates a lack of maternal care. Healthy kits should be left undisturbed for at least one overnight period to allow the mother to return. If these concerning signs persist, the raccoon may require intervention.
What to Do If You Find Young Raccoons
If you encounter young raccoons, observe from a distance without direct interaction, as unnecessary removal can cause more harm. For seemingly healthy kits, place them in a secure, warm container, such as a cardboard box with a hot water bottle, for temporary safety. Place this container near where the raccoon was found, enabling the mother to retrieve them. For mobile kits, an upside-down laundry basket with a weight can contain them while still allowing mother access.
Maintain a quiet area, free from people and pets, particularly overnight, as mothers primarily return after dusk. If the mother does not return after one overnight period, or if the kit displays injury or distress, contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator or animal control. Avoid self-care for raccoons due to specialized needs, potential health risks like rabies or roundworm, and legal restrictions. Never offer food or water unless advised by a professional, as incorrect feeding can be harmful.