Raccoon baby season refers to the time of year when female raccoons reproduce and raise their young. Understanding this period is important for individuals who live in areas where raccoons are present. Awareness of their breeding cycle helps in recognizing their behaviors and knowing how to respond if they are encountered. This knowledge promotes coexistence with local wildlife.
Peak Period for Raccoon Births
Raccoons typically begin their mating activities in late winter, generally from January through March, though it can extend into April. Following a gestation period of approximately 63 days, most raccoon births occur during the spring months. The peak birthing period is often observed between March and May, aligning with warmer weather and increased food availability.
A typical litter consists of two to five kits, though litter sizes can vary. If a female raccoon’s first litter does not survive, she may breed again in late summer, resulting in a second litter around August or September. Kits remain dependent on their mother for several months, usually staying with her until late fall or early winter, or even the following spring. By this time, the young raccoons are self-sufficient and ready to disperse from their natal den.
Where Raccoon Families Reside
Female raccoons seek out secure and protected locations to establish dens for raising their young. In natural environments, these den sites often include hollow trees, fallen logs, rock crevices, or abandoned burrows created by other animals. These secluded spots offer shelter from predators and environmental elements.
Beyond natural settings, raccoons frequently utilize human-made structures for their dens, especially in suburban and urban areas. Common locations include attics, chimneys, sheds, crawl spaces, and even underneath decks or porches. These spaces are attractive due to their warmth, security, and proximity to food and water sources. The chosen den provides a safe nursery where the mother can nurse and protect her vulnerable offspring.
Interacting with Raccoons During Baby Season
If you encounter baby raccoons, it is generally best to observe them from a distance and avoid direct interaction. The mother raccoon is often nearby, foraging for food or temporarily away from the den, and will usually return to her young. Directly approaching or handling the kits can cause the mother to abandon them or become defensive.
To help prevent raccoons from denning on your property, take steps to secure potential entry points to structures. This includes sealing openings to attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces with durable materials like hardware cloth or installing chimney caps. Regularly securing garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and avoiding leaving pet food outdoors can also deter raccoons from frequenting your yard. These actions reduce attractive food sources and potential denning opportunities.
If you find a baby raccoon that appears injured, orphaned, or if raccoons are causing damage to your property, it is important to contact a qualified professional. Local wildlife rehabilitation centers or animal control services are equipped to assess the situation and provide appropriate assistance. These organizations can safely handle and relocate animals when necessary, ensuring both human and animal well-being.