Raccoons, with their distinctive masked faces and ringed tails, are increasingly common in urban and suburban North America. These adaptable mammals thrive in human-modified environments, utilizing abundant food and shelter. Primarily nocturnal, raccoons are active at night, though daytime sightings are not unusual. Their opportunistic nature allows them to coexist closely with people, leading to frequent encounters.
Interpreting Raccoon Behavior
Understanding raccoon behavior helps in reacting during an encounter. Raccoons are naturally nocturnal, foraging for food and exploring under cover of darkness. However, daytime sightings are common, especially if a mother seeks food for young or a food source is enticing. A daytime sighting does not automatically mean the animal is sick; raccoons adjust schedules based on human activity and food availability.
While raccoons are generally wary of humans, certain behaviors indicate illness or distress. A raccoon that appears disoriented, stumbles, or has difficulty moving may be sick. Other concerning signs include unusual vocalizations (chattering, growling, hissing without provocation), self-mutilation, drooling, or a lack of fear toward humans. Unprovoked aggression, lethargy, or unresponsiveness could indicate a disease like rabies or distemper.
Immediate Actions During an Encounter
When encountering a raccoon, maintaining a safe distance is important. Avoid approaching the animal; even a calm raccoon can react defensively if threatened or cornered. Raccoons are wild animals, and attempting to pet or feed them can lead to unpredictable behavior, bites, or scratches. Feeding raccoons also encourages them to lose their natural fear of humans, increasing problematic encounters.
If you have pets, secure them indoors or keep them on a leash away from the raccoon. Pets can provoke raccoons, and direct interaction can lead to injury or disease transmission. If a raccoon seems too comfortable or approaches, make yourself known by standing tall, making noise, or waving your arms to appear larger. This often encourages retreat, as they prefer to avoid human interaction. Never try to corner a raccoon or block its escape route, as this can cause aggression and attack.
Knowing When to Contact Professionals
Contacting professionals for raccoon intervention is necessary in specific situations. If you observe a raccoon exhibiting clear signs of illness—such as disorientation, paralysis, foaming at the mouth, or unprovoked aggression—contact your local animal control or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These behaviors may indicate rabies or other serious conditions, posing a risk to public health and safety. Animal control agencies handle potentially rabid or dangerous animals.
When a raccoon has entered your home (e.g., attic, chimney, garage), professional assistance is recommended for safe, humane removal. Wildlife removal companies specialize in safely trapping and relocating animals from residential structures. They can also identify and seal entry points to prevent future intrusions. If a raccoon is aggressive towards people or pets without provocation, or repeatedly causes significant property damage, contact a wildlife professional. Local government websites or wildlife rehabilitation hotlines provide contact information for appropriate services.
Preventing Raccoon Presence
Proactive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of raccoons frequenting your property. Securing potential food sources is a primary deterrent, as raccoons are omnivores attracted to available meals. Ensure trash cans have tight-fitting, secured lids, and consider keeping them in a garage or shed until collection day. Bring pet food indoors overnight, and promptly clean up fallen fruits from trees.
Eliminating potential shelter sites also deters raccoons. Seal any openings or gaps in your home’s foundation, crawl spaces, and around vents or chimneys that could serve as entry points. Trim tree branches extending close to your roof to prevent raccoons from accessing attics or other elevated areas. Remove standing water sources, such as overflowing bird baths or outdoor pet water bowls, to make your property less appealing. Maintain a tidy yard by clearing brush piles and debris, removing potential hiding spots.