RACCOON CONTROL FAQs Answers to the FAQs Q: We have a family of raccoons that visit every night. We want to make sure we feed them correctly. What do they eat? A: Raccoons can be very destructive so please think carefully before you start feeding them. In fact, we recommend that you don't feed them. They are wild animals and you may disrupt their eating patterns. Q: Last night there were raccoons screaming outside my house. Were they fighting or mating? A: Depending on where you live, it was most likely mating. Their mating season in most of the United States is January through March. Q: Will a raccoon hurt or chase my pet? A: More than likely your pet would chase the raccoon before the opposite would happen. There is always the chance that an interaction could happen. It would probably be wise to keep your dog or cat away from the raccoon. You may want to trap the raccoons and move them from the area to keep your pets safe. Q: How do you know if a raccoon is sick? A: Raccoons are nocturnal animals, so if you see one during the day that may be an indication. Also, if you observe their eating habits changing drastically; this could be another sign that they are not feeling well. Q: What time of year do raccoons have babies? A: Raccoons are typically mating during the winter, preparing to produce litters of 3 to 5 babies in April. The offspring typically stay with their mother for about a year. Q: How do raccoons survive in the natural world? Where do they live, what do they eat, etc? A: Please see our webpage on Facts about Raccoons. Q: I'm trying to catch a raccoon but my bait keeps freezing so they can't smell it. What should I do? A: Try to place the baited traps in places known to be frequented by raccoons. Use baits that are as pungent as possible - stinky fish or fried meats like bacon. Raccoons have a keen sense of smell and should be able to find the bait, even if it's frozen, in places they normally visit looking for food. Q: How are raccoons getting in? A: Raccoons can squeeze through any opening that they can get their head through. Often times, common points of entry are through attic vent louvers and attic fans. You should try to make sure that these openings are either closed (if not in use) or properly guarded by using sturdy metal screen. Learn more about keeping raccoons out of the attic and house. Q: When can I seal up a raccoon den? A: Young raccoons are born in the spring, usually about April, and are weaned between 2-4 months of age. They will stay with their mother for up to a year, however. Havahart® offers a variety of raccoon control solutions such as raccoon repellents and raccoon traps to help you with your raccoon control needs. |