Raccoons are adaptable creatures often found thriving in urban and suburban environments. Their presence can become noticeable when they choose to den on human property, leading to concerns for homeowners. Understanding the natural behaviors of these animals, especially their family cycles, can help manage their presence effectively.
The Raccoon Family Cycle
Raccoons begin their breeding season in late winter, from January to March, with peak activity in March and April. A female raccoon, after a gestation period of 63 to 65 days, gives birth to a litter of kits, generally between March and May. Litter sizes range from two to seven kits, with three to six being common.
Newborn kits are blind and dependent on their mother; their eyes open around three weeks of age. They begin standing between four and six weeks old and are weaned from their mother’s milk after two to three months. For the first eight to twelve weeks, the young remain inside the den, often in a secure location like an attic or chimney.
By mid-summer, when kits are approximately two months old, they venture out from the den, accompanying their mother on foraging trips. The mother may move her kits between various den sites. Young raccoons stay with their mother until they are eight to twelve months old, sometimes through their first winter, before dispersing to establish their own territories.
Signs of Raccoon Activity
Identifying raccoon presence begins with recognizing their distinct tracks. Raccoon footprints resemble small human hands, featuring five slender, finger-like toes on both front and hind feet. Front paw tracks are one to two and a half inches long, while hind paw tracks are slightly longer and more oval-shaped. These tracks are found in soft ground, such as mud or dusty areas around buildings.
Another indicator is the presence of raccoon droppings, which are dark, tubular, and about two to three inches long with blunt ends. These feces contain undigested food items like berries or seeds. Raccoons use communal defecation sites, known as latrines, found at the base of trees, on logs, or even in attics and on decks.
Sounds from attics, walls, or chimneys also signal raccoon activity. Homeowners might hear chattering, growling, squealing, or scratching and thumping noises, particularly at night. Raccoons also cause property damage, including torn insulation, damaged roofs, or holes in siding, soffits, and vents.
Gentle Encouragement for Departure
Once raccoon kits are mobile, after eight to twelve weeks, humane methods can encourage the family to leave a den site. Raccoons are nocturnal, so introducing bright lights into their den area makes the space less appealing. Motion-activated lights are effective as they provide an unexpected element of surprise.
Playing a loud radio tuned to a talk show or continuous music near the den can disturb raccoons and prompt them to relocate. Strong odors, such as ammonia-soaked rags, hot pepper, garlic, peppermint oil, or vinegar, can deter raccoons due to their sensitive sense of smell. These deterrents should be placed just before dusk, when raccoons become active.
After confirming all raccoons have left the den, by observing undisturbed newspaper over the entry point for a few days, the entry can be sealed. Entry points should be blocked with sturdy materials like 16-gauge wire mesh or metal flashing to prevent re-entry. Avoid trapping or harming raccoons and ensure all animals have departed before sealing, as separating a mother from her kits can lead to property damage as she attempts to return.
When to Seek Expert Assistance
Professional wildlife assistance is advisable in some situations. If raccoons appear aggressive, sick, or are causing extensive property damage, contact an expert. Signs of a sick raccoon include a staggering gait, disorientation, matted fur, discharge from eyes or nose, seizures, or unusual vocalizations.
Wildlife removal services are equipped to safely and humanely handle these situations. They can assess the infestation, remove animals, and implement measures to prevent future entry. Raccoons can carry diseases transmissible to humans and pets, such as rabies, distemper, and raccoon roundworm; professional intervention minimizes health risks.