Raccoons have adapted very well to urban living and can become a nuisance. To avoid conflicts, ensure your home is in good repair and remove food such as bird seed, pet food and fallen fruit.
In Ontario, it is also illegal to trap and re-locate an animal such as a racoon from its home territory. In addition to being illegal, trapping wildlife can leave young raccoons orphaned, injured or spread disease such as rabies.
- Raccoons are active at night and sleep through the day
- They are omnivores and will eat almost anything
- Raccoons can be seen during milder winter weather
Signs of a sick or distressed raccoon
- Raccoons wandering during the day
- The animal looks disoriented, staggering, falling over or is paralyzed
- Mucous caked around the eyes or nose
- Raccoons that are tamed and will approach humans and pets
- Aggressive behaviour, attacking pets or people
- Found lying or sleeping on the ground
- Baby raccoons left alone
Raccoons can carry diseases and parasites that affect people and pets including rabies, distemper and fleas. If you see raccoons that are injured or in distress do not approach them and call 905-896-5858.