Raccoons
(Procyon lotor)
Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable mammals that are native to North America. They have a distinctive black mask around their eyes, a ringed tail, and thick fur that ranges from grayish-brown to reddish-brown. Raccoons are highly adaptable and can be found living in a wide range of environments, including forests, wetlands, and urban areas.
Raccoons are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal matter. Their diet consists of a variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, insects, small animals, and garbage. They have a keen sense of smell and are able to use their nimble fingers to manipulate objects and open containers. Raccoons are also known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities, which make them excellent scavengers.
Like brown rats, raccoons are known to carry a number of pathogens and parasites that can be transmitted to humans. For example, raccoons are known carriers of the roundworm parasite Baylisascaris procyonis, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with raccoon feces. This parasite can cause serious neurological damage or even death in humans. Raccoons are also known carriers of rabies, a viral disease that is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Despite their adaptability and intelligence, raccoons face a number of threats to their survival. One of the biggest threats comes from human development, which has destroyed much of their natural habitat and forced them to live in urban areas. Raccoons are also sometimes hunted for their fur or killed as pests, which has led to declines in their populations in some areas.
Overall, raccoons are fascinating and adaptable animals that have a unique place in North American ecosystems. However, it is important to take precautions when interacting with raccoons or their habitats in order to minimize the risk of disease transmission and protect their populations for future generations.
How did the raccoon get into my house?
Raccoons are very skilled at finding ways into homes, often through small openings such as vents, chimneys, or holes in the roof. They may also enter through open doors or windows. It is important to seal any potential entry points to prevent further raccoon intrusions.
What should I do if I find a raccoon in my house?
If you find a raccoon in your house, it is important to stay calm and avoid direct contact with the animal. Close off the room where the raccoon is located and call a wildlife removal professional to safely remove the animal from your home.
Can raccoons cause damage to my home?
Yes, raccoons can cause significant damage to homes, including tearing up insulation, chewing through wires, and leaving behind feces and urine that can cause health problems. It is important to address raccoon intrusions promptly to prevent further damage.
How can I prevent raccoons from entering my home in the future?
There are several steps you can take to prevent raccoons from entering your home, such as sealing any potential entry points. Every home is different and requires a detailed inspection of the home.
