what does animal control do with raccoons

Natashya

3 min read

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22-12-2024

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Raccoons, with their masked faces and clever paws, are common sights in many neighborhoods. But when these critters become a nuisance – raiding garbage cans, damaging property, or exhibiting aggressive behavior – people often call animal control for help. So, what exactly happens when you report a raccoon problem? The answer depends on several factors, including the specific situation and the local animal control policies.

Assessing the Situation: The First Steps

When you contact animal control about a raccoon, the first step is usually a phone assessment. The dispatcher will ask questions to determine the nature of the problem. This includes:

• Location of the raccoon: Is it in your house, yard, or a public space?
• Raccoon's behavior: Is it acting aggressively, injured, or simply foraging?
• Presence of young: Are there kits (baby raccoons) involved?

This information helps animal control prioritize calls and determine the appropriate response.

What Happens Next? Common Actions Taken by Animal Control

Depending on the assessment, animal control might take several different actions:

• Relocation: In many cases, if the raccoon is healthy and not exhibiting aggressive behavior, animal control officers will attempt relocation. This involves trapping the raccoon and releasing it in a more suitable habitat, often a wooded area some distance from human habitation. However, relocation isn't always successful, as raccoons are adaptable and may return. Also, laws regarding relocation vary by location. Some areas strictly prohibit it due to concerns about disease transmission and disrupting existing ecosystems.

• Removal of Nuisances: If the raccoons are accessing garbage or causing property damage, animal control may focus on removing the attractant instead of capturing the animals. This often involves advising homeowners on proper garbage disposal techniques, securing garbage cans, and repairing any damage that allows access to buildings or attics.

• Euthanasia: In situations where a raccoon is severely injured, sick, or exhibiting aggressive and dangerous behavior posing a threat to public safety, euthanasia may be the most humane option. This is a difficult decision, but often necessary to prevent further suffering or potential harm to people. Animal control officers are trained to make these decisions ethically and humanely.

• Observation and Monitoring: Sometimes, animal control may choose to observe the situation. If the raccoon appears healthy and the problem isn't severe, they might advise you on how to manage the situation yourself, recommending deterrents like motion-activated sprinklers or strong-smelling repellents.

What Animal Control *Doesn't* Do

It's important to have realistic expectations. Animal control is not a wildlife removal service. They prioritize public safety and the humane treatment of animals. They will generally not:

• Remove raccoons simply because you don't like them being in your yard. If the raccoon isn't causing damage or posing a threat, animal control likely won't get involved.
• Trap and remove raccoons from private property without a justifiable reason. Relocation is typically reserved for situations where the raccoon is a genuine nuisance or in danger.
• Handle raccoon removal that requires specialized expertise. For complex situations involving extensive damage or infestations in attics, homeowners may need to contact a licensed and insured wildlife removal specialist.

Preventing Raccoon Problems: Proactive Measures

The best way to avoid dealing with nuisance raccoons is to prevent them from becoming attracted to your property in the first place. This involves:

• Secure your garbage: Use heavy-duty trash cans with tight-fitting lids. Store garbage in a garage or shed when possible.
• Clean up food scraps: Don't leave pet food outside overnight.
• Repair any holes or gaps: Seal up openings in your home's exterior that raccoons could use to gain access.
• Remove potential nesting sites: Trim overhanging branches and eliminate areas where raccoons might build dens.

Working With Your Local Animal Control

Remember that local policies and procedures may vary. Always contact your local animal control agency directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on how they handle raccoon problems in your area. They are your best resource for understanding the process and what to expect. By understanding their role and taking preventative measures, you can minimize conflicts with these clever creatures.