Raccoon
by Sarah Kishler
The common raccoon is a mammal found throughout southern Canada and the United States, including Santa Clara County. Although most common in forests and marshes, they are highly adaptable and have adjusted to urban living, as anyone who’s had their garbage cans raided will know.
Raccoons are nocturnal creatures that inhabit hollow logs and trees and sometimes the ground dwellings of other animals. While they don’t actually hibernate, raccoons will sleep in their dens for long periods during winter’s coldest days. The highly omnivorous raccoon diet includes nuts, seeds, insects, frogs, fruit, and fish.
The scientific name of the raccoon is Procyon Lotor, or “washer bear.” It is common knowledge that raccoons frequently dip their food in a river or other water source before eating it. However, it is thought that the raccoon is not actually “washing” its food! Dunking its fingers into water enhances the raccoon’s sense of touch and helps it to sort out anything in its hands that is not edible.
The Algonquin Indians’ name for raccoon translates into “he scratches with his hands.” The Giant Panda is a member of the raccoon family.
They are excellent swimmers and climbers and have great dexterity with their hands. Obviously, they can get themselves into all sorts of situations! Raccoons are delightful creatures with which we share the planet, and are valuable in keeping insect populations down, but you’d be well-advised to keep your garbage lids shut tight!
What do I do with a raccoon under my house or deck?
During the day, place ammonia-soaked rags in a can every 3-5 feet around the perimeter and both sides of the entrance to the suspected problem area. Within 2-3 weeks the raccoons should have moved elsewhere. You can also try spreading human hair in the area. The smell of humans often keeps them from settling. Turn on lights during the night to keep raccoons away. Keep in mind that raccoons will not vacate until nightfall.
How do I keep raccoons from entering the yard?
Metal wrapped around the tree trunks will prevent climbing. Sprinkling cayenne pepper or human hair on your lawn will prevent raccoons from digging for insects. If you have a pond, submerge wire mesh around the perimeter of the water, attach it to the edge. This way the fish will be safe from raccoons, which tend not to walk on wire
How can I protect my small pets from raccoons?
Keep small animals secured at night. Removing a raccoon will only open up the territory for other raccoons, or possibly opossums, skunks and other wildlife.
