​​​Raccoons are medium in size and weigh approximately 15-23 pounds. They have a greyish-brown coat, a dark mask, and rings around their tails. Raccoons are traditionally active at night; however, during breeding season, they may be more active during daylight hours. Raccoons feed on grubs, insects, small rodents, eggs, fleshy fruits, nuts and vegetables. Raccoons are renowned for getting into our trash cans, recycling bins, and compost bins, scavenging for food. Therefore, it is very necessary to ensure you properly dispose of waste on your property and to only take out your green bin and garbage containers to the curb on the morning of pickup, not the night before.

If you encounter a raccoon, don’t approach, feed or touch it. Raccoons can carry diseases and parasites that can affect humans and our pets – rabies, distemper, raccoon roundworm, fleas, etc. Raccoons are only aggressive when cornered or when protecting their food source or young. Raccoons would sooner run away if confronted; however, in urban settings, they have become quite tame and seem to have little or no fear of humans, so don’t be surprised if they stick around even if you are present.

If you locate a raccoon in a garbage bin or dumpster, you can take the following steps to provide it an opportunity to leave:

• If able to tip the bin, do so to allow it an opportunity to leave
• If in a dumpster, you can consider placing a branch, board or even a ladder inside to allow it assistance in climbing out.
• Whichever method is taken, give the raccoon space and time to leave, as it likely will not climb out until dusk and when there are no people or perceived threats present.

Aversion conditioning for your property will provide an opportunity to make your home less attractive to the raccoons that wish to take refuge.

• Keep your lawn manicured, pick the fruit from trees and plants as soon as it ripens
• Cut back shrubs and trees that provide access to your roof lines
• Cover/cap all vents and chimney openings
• Place motion sensor lighting throughout your yard and outside your home
• Keep your barbecue clean and covered when you are not using it
• Vinegar-soaked rags or blood meal can provide smells unwelcomed by the raccoons
• Ensure your roof line is maintained on a regular basis, such as loose shingles, broken soffits or eaves
• Ensure any openings to outbuildings, attached garages and decks or porches are secured and maintained.

​If you see a raccoon that appears blind and confused, it may wander aimlessly. Or if they have mucus discharge around their eyes and nose, possibly accompanied by coughing, seizures, tremors, or over-grooming, do not approach; call Animal Services to tend to the sick raccoon.