Raccoons

Raccoon Habitat

Traditionally, raccoons prefer heavily wooded areas with access to trees, water and abundant vegetation. There, they make their dens in the hollow parts of trees as well as abandoned burrows, traveling up to 18 miles to forage for food.

Raccoons are extremely adaptable. They are often found in suburban and urban areas, making their homes in man-made structures like attics, sewers, barns and sheds. In urban areas, raccoons tend to stay closer to their dens with a range of only about 1 mile, depending on their age and sex.

Raccoon Life Cycle

Between January – March is when racoons mate. Female racoons give birth to 4 to 6 six pups about 2 months of mating. They can begin to stand at about 4 to 6 weeks. Like a cat the Mother carries them in her mouth in and out of the den initially as they mature, she teaches its young one to climb trees and how to hunt for food. Mother racoons are very protective of their babies and will ward off the most dangerous of predators. They will remain with their Mother for a year.

Raccoon Prevention

Seal garbage cans tight. The best garbage cans have lids that lock into place with handles or clamps. If necessary, keep garbage cans inside a secure building. Don’t feed them. If you have pets, feed them during the day and don’t leave their food or water dishes outside. Blocking off access is the best raccoon deterrent for your home itself. Inspect your house thoroughly to find any holes or crevices where raccoons may enter; they can get through surprisingly small spaces. This includes chimneys, attic vents, and the seams along roofs and baseboards.