Raccoons live just about everywhere, from California all the way to the East Coast. These animals pose a serious threat to the environment and people. They live in hollow logs, under porches, attics and have even been found living In garages and in farm machinery. Animal Control often receives many calls from people in winter about Raccoons in their homes. Mostly, they are found in attics. Animal control will most likely locate them and safely take them out of your home. Raccoons can be released after they have been removed. They will then return to their "home". That's why Animal Control has been known to release them far enough away so they cannot return. Raccoons love to be curious. Raccoons can climb into trash cans, open doors, and turn on water spickets. Most of their mischief is due in search of food. These animals are called Nocturnal. These animals sleep at night, but are awake during the day. They can be found in almost any situation while you're sleeping. They are well-known to tear up lawns in their search for grubworms. This is a popular item on the menu. Only one Raccoon can take down an entire yard in just one night.
Raccoons are determined about food and will do whatever it takes to get it. These animals also carry diseases. One of them is Rabies. It can infect animals and cause them to be aggressive, make their mouths foamy, and be very unattractive. Roundworm is a parasite found in Raccoon What do raccoons eat feces (or poop), that can cause death if it's touched. Roundworm is a parasite which can live in the intestines and can spread throughout the body, infecting various organs. Some cases can even lead to death. Raccoons can be both amazing swimmers and climbers. Raccoons are great climbers and swimmers. Their feet and tail were designed specifically for climbing. The tail is used for balance and the feet are for hanging or clinging. Raccoons can climb up and down, left and right, forward and even climb down backwards! Wild Raccoons can live up to 5-12 years, while those kept in captivity can last up to 20. Their weight can range from 12-20lbs. The largest recorded Raccoon was 60lbs. These fuzzy critters can teach us so much, not only about them, but how we as people can care for them and their environment.
Bentley James has extensive knowledge about wildlife. Most of the facts and information he shares are directly derived from his extensive experience with wildlife. He is an avid hunter and trapper. Bentley is a naturalist who knows everything about the outdoors and all the wonderful creatures that live there. Bentley believes that knowing your wildlife and the environment makes it more enjoyable. You will be able to identify their habitats, what they do, and how they live. Bentley can identify what type of animal it is by its footprint. Bentley can also identify an animal with just a few hairs. Bentley hopes these articles can help you learn more about nature and what creatures are all around us every day.