Raccoons are nocturnal animals, primarily active at night. Observing a raccoon during daylight can be surprising for many people. While primarily active after dusk, a daytime appearance doesn’t automatically signify a problem. Raccoons are adaptable creatures, and various factors can lead them to be active when the sun is out, though in some instances, it might indicate an underlying issue that warrants attention.
Common Reasons for Daytime Sightings
Food Foraging
Raccoons are opportunistic foragers. Hunger can compel them to search for food during daylight, especially if nighttime sources are scarce. They may take advantage of easily accessible food items such as unsecured trash cans, outdoor pet food, or bird feeders.
Mothers with Young
Mother raccoons with young kits often require more calories for themselves and their young, leading them to forage more frequently, including during the day. This increased need can disrupt their usual nocturnal patterns.
Den Disturbance or Relocation
Disturbed or destroyed dens may force raccoons to relocate during the day in search of new shelter. Disruptions include human activity like construction or natural events such as fallen trees or floods. Raccoons may also seek water or cooler, shaded areas during hot weather, regardless of the time of day, to regulate their body temperature.
Urban Adaptation
Raccoons are highly adaptable to urban environments, and their behavior can shift to capitalize on available resources. If a consistent food source is only available during the day, they may adjust their schedule to exploit it.
When to Be Concerned
Disorientation or Sluggishness
Certain behaviors can indicate a raccoon is sick or injured, and these signs warrant caution. A raccoon that appears disoriented, stumbles, walks in circles, or shows unusual sluggishness may be unwell.
Unusual Aggression or Lack of Fear
A raccoon exhibiting aggression without provocation, approaching humans or pets without fear, or making unusual vocalizations can be a sign of illness. Healthy raccoons are typically shy and avoid human contact.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms such as foaming at the mouth, discharge from the eyes or nose, self-mutilation, or paralysis, particularly in the hind limbs, are also concerning. A general unwell appearance, including matted fur, significant weight loss, or visible injuries, suggests the animal is in distress. While rabies is a serious disease that can manifest with these symptoms, other illnesses like Canine Distemper can present similarly. Professional assessment is necessary to determine the cause.
What to Do Next
Maintain Safe Distance
If you encounter a raccoon during the day, it is important to maintain a safe distance. Never attempt to approach, feed, or capture the animal. Raccoons are wild animals and can become aggressive if they feel threatened.
Secure Attractants
Securing potential attractants around your property can help deter future visits. This includes ensuring trash cans have tight-fitting, secure lids, and avoiding leaving pet food outdoors, especially overnight.
Contact Professionals
If a raccoon exhibits signs of illness, unusual aggression, or appears injured, contact your local animal control, wildlife rehabilitation center, or health department for guidance. These professionals have the training and equipment to handle the situation safely.
Protect Pets
To protect household pets, keep them indoors or on a leash when a raccoon is present in the vicinity. Vaccinating pets against common diseases like rabies and distemper can also provide a layer of protection.