Raccoons are adaptable omnivores, commonly found in various environments, including those near human populations. Their diet frequently sparks curiosity, particularly regarding sweet substances like honey.
Raccoon Diet
Raccoons are omnivores with a highly flexible diet, adapting to available resources in their environment. In wild settings, their food sources include fruits, berries, nuts, and grains. They also hunt small animals like mice, voles, shrews, and rabbits. Aquatic life, such as fish, shellfish, clams, crayfish, and amphibians, forms a significant part of their natural diet. Insects, grubs, snails, and earthworms are also staples, providing essential protein and nutrients.
In urban areas, raccoons are opportunistic, readily consuming food found in human-modified landscapes. They frequently scavenge through trash cans, access garden produce, and consume pet food left outdoors. This adaptability allows them to thrive in diverse habitats, from forests to suburban neighborhoods. Their keen sense of smell and dexterous paws assist them in locating and manipulating a wide range of food items.
Raccoons and Honey
While raccoons are attracted to sweet foods, their interest in beehives is not solely focused on honey. They are primarily drawn to the protein-rich bee larvae and pupae within the hive, which offer a valuable source of fat and protein. Raccoons will use their nimble paws to access the hive, often tearing apart frames to reach the brood.
If honey is exposed during their search for larvae, raccoons will readily consume it. They are known to remove hive covers and pull out frames to get to both brood and honey. Their main objective when raiding a hive is the nutritious bee brood, though they will eat honey if available. Unlike bears, who might topple an entire hive for honey, raccoons typically target specific frames or empty supers.
Deterring Raccoons
To deter raccoons, eliminate accessible food sources and secure potential den sites on your property. Securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids or bungee cords is an effective step, as garbage is a primary food source for urban raccoons. Storing trash cans inside a garage or shed can further prevent access. Pet food should be brought indoors, especially at night, to avoid attracting these nocturnal animals.
Gardens can be protected by harvesting produce regularly and removing fallen fruits or nuts from the ground. Installing an electric fence around gardens can also be a deterrent. For beehives, placing heavy objects like rocks on hive covers or securing them with straps can prevent raccoons from opening them. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle raccoons and discourage them from lingering. Some strong scents, such as cayenne pepper, black pepper, or peppermint oil, are also reported to deter them.