Raccoons are highly adaptable nocturnal mammals recognized by their distinctive masked faces and ringed tails. Their intelligence and dexterity allow them to thrive in diverse environments. This adaptability directly influences their choice of sleeping and resting locations, known as dens, enabling them to find shelter in both wild and human-populated settings.
Natural Den Sites
In wild habitats, raccoons seek dens offering shelter and protection from predators and the elements. They often utilize hollow trees, which provide insulation and security. Fallen logs also serve as suitable resting spots, offering concealed spaces for daytime slumber.
Raccoons may also inhabit abandoned burrows, such as those dug by groundhogs or badgers. Rock crevices and dense brush piles further provide secluded and protected areas. These natural dens are chosen for their shelter, safety, and insulation against temperature fluctuations.
Urban and Suburban Denning
Raccoons have adapted their denning habits to urban and suburban environments, finding shelter within human-made structures. They commonly use spaces that offer warmth, protection from weather, and security from predators. Attics are frequently chosen due to their warmth and seclusion. An estimated 40% of urban raccoon dens are found in attics.
Chimneys provide a safe, elevated, and insulated space, mimicking the protection of tree hollows. Other common urban den sites include sheds, garages, and crawl spaces, which offer ample shelter. Raccoons also utilize storm sewers and culverts, finding these enclosed structures suitable for resting. These locations are appealing because they often provide convenient access to food sources, such as garbage cans.
Seasonal Den Use
Raccoon denning behavior changes throughout the year in response to environmental conditions. During colder months, dens provide insulation, helping raccoons conserve energy. While they do not truly hibernate, raccoons can enter a state of torpor, reducing their metabolic activity and relying on fat reserves. This allows them to endure periods of limited food availability.
In warmer months, dens are primarily used for daytime resting, rather than for extreme temperature protection. Raccoons may use multiple temporary dens during these periods, moving between them every few days. This flexibility allows them to adapt to changing food availability and avoid detection.
Denning for Reproduction and Raising Young
Female raccoons select specific den sites for giving birth and raising their young, known as kits. These “birthing dens” require secure, secluded, and warm conditions to protect offspring from predators and harsh weather. Dens with limited access points are preferred to ensure the safety of the kits, which are born blind and deaf.
Tree cavities are a common choice for maternal dens in natural settings, offering stability and protection. In urban areas, attics, chimneys, and spaces under decks or sheds become favored locations due to their warmth and security. These birthing dens are occupied from early spring through summer, until the kits are old enough to venture out independently. The selection of a suitable den is important for the survival and development of the young raccoons.