BIOLOGY:
Also known as the masked bandit, the average adult raccoon will weigh between 10 to 30 pounds and in rare instances tip the scale at 40 to 50 pounds. Raccoons are nocturnal and omnivores, with a diet consisting of both plants and animals. Raccoons breed in February or March. Raccoon young are born in June and July with an average litter of 3 to 5. Young raccoons open their eyes around 3 weeks old. Raccoons do not hibernate, but stay in a den during the winter season for several weeks without exiting.
CHARACTERISTICS:
Raccoons are very clever and have adapted well to the urban environment. Raccoons can cause damage to roofs, ventilation systems and woodwork in residential and commercial dwellings alike. Raccoons residing in a house may use the attic area to establish a latrine site, which can result in enough damage to collapse and allow raccoons to enter the living space. Female raccoons will often enter through chimneys where they will have their young on top of a fire box.
Behavior patterns of a sick raccoon include acting fearless, aggressive or foraging during daylight. These are warning signs that a raccoon may be sick and should be avoided. Raccoon droppings present a biohazard and should be handled only by a licensed professional. Raccoon droppings may carry round worm eggs, and can cause serious health problems. Young children are especially susceptible. Intrepid Wildlife Services offers clean up services in Westchester County to remove insulation and droppings safely and securely.