While raccoons are not considered to be a threatened or endangered species, they do have predators that prey on them. Let's take a look at the wide variety of critters that think of raccoons as a tasty snack! Predators That Eat Raccoons Being a small animal in the wild is difficult since many natural predators nearby are more robust, faster, and fiercer. Although this is part of the natural order of things, some creatures, like adult raccoons or juvenile males, nevertheless face challenges in surviving due to their small size. Given their short average life span, they serve as a food source for common predators. Here are some of the major predators or animal predators that prey on raccoons: Large Cats One of the most common wild predators of other raccoons is large cats. In North America, this includes mountain lions, pumas, and bobcats. These powerful predators hunt alone and use their stealth and speed to take down their prey. Mountain lions  Mountain lions can be found from sea level to heights of 10,000 feet in both coastal forests and deserts. Their natural habitat is in rock crevices, steep valleys, or mountains in areas where there are deer. In Golden, Colorado, reports of raccoon carcasses in yards have surfaced. According to authorities, mountain lions are to blame for killing raccoons. Bobcats  Bobcats are common in North America. They are habitat generalists and can mostly live in woodlands, coastal swamps, deserts, and scrubland. Bobcats have sharp teeth that they use when they encounter raccoons in the wild. They’ll also eat a smaller raccoon if the opportunity arises. Large Birds Of Prey  The vast majority of raccoons are hefty, so obviously, predators of raccoons are large birds that can effectively grasp and consume them. Like eagles, birds of prey or raptors have a massive wingspan extending up to 8 feet. They have huge, powerful talons to kill their game before eating and powerful beaks that can crush their prey. Their vision is also very keen, allowing them to spot potential meals from far away. Some of the raptors that hunt and eat raccoons include: Great Horned Owls  They can be found in much of the Americas. A great horned owl has a wingspan of up to 5 feet and can weigh up to 4 pounds. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, including rabbits, skunks, and raccoons. Golden Eagle  The golden eagle is a ubiquitous bird in North America, Europe, and Asia. They have a wingspan of about 7.5 feet and can weigh up to 15 pounds. Their diet consists of rabbits, squirrels, marmots, ground-nesting birds, mice, lizards, and snakes. Bald Eagle  A North American species of an eagle with a wingspan of up to 8.2 feet and weight of up to 15 pounds are slightly smaller than golden eagles. Their diet consists mainly of fish, but they will also eat small mammals, such as rabbits, squirrels, and raccoons. Alligators  Do you ever wonder how raccoons and alligators come into contact with one another? Raccoons and alligators coexist from North Carolina to Texas. Alligators can only be found close to water sources, which also happen to be raccoons' preferred same habitats. So eating raccoons and other animals nearby will be easy. These mammals are drawn to water for various reasons, including the ability to swim and their famous habit of "washing their food". Due to their love of water and frequent habitation of areas near lakes and streams, raccoons are also drawn to swimming pools. Raccoons wash their front paws and food before ingestion. Coyotes  Coyote packs are found across North America in habitats ranging from deserts to forests to urban areas. They are adaptable animals and eat almost anything, including rodents, rabbits, deer, snakes, lizards, and fruits and vegetables. The two wild animals will encounter each other most commonly near humans in rural and suburban areas. Raccoons and coyotes, unlike other animals, have successfully adapted to the expansion of humankind encroaching on their habitats. Wolves  Wolves live in various habitats, including forests, tundra, and grasslands. Wolves primarily eat medium to large-sized ungulates, such as deer, but also eat small mammals, reptiles, and fish. When wolves hunt in packs, they often seek larger prey. So if they come across a raccoon, they will probably pass it by because it won't be enough for the pack to eat. However, if a wolf hunts alone, it will not hesitate to consume a raccoon, particularly juvenile raccoons. Snakes  Pythons and boas are non-venomous snakes that kill their prey by constriction. These snakes are climbing trees and fruit trees found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Pythons can grow about 30 feet long and weigh up to 200 pounds, while boas can produce about 20 feet long and weigh up to 60 pounds. Pythons and Anacondas eat mammals, such as raccoon meat, rodents, deer, and pigs. However, they have been known to consume raccoons on occasion. On the other hand, raccoons and some small snakes don't typically interact in some areas unless one tries to startle the other. Fisher Cats  Fisher Cats are found in North America, specifically in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are mainly members of the weasel family and have long slim bodies and hind feet that allow them to pursue their prey in small spaces. Fisher cats weigh up to 20 pounds and eat various animals, including squirrels, mice, rabbits, birds, and reptiles. Fisher cats and raccoons are almost similar in size and appearance, so they are often mistaken for one another. However, fisher cats are more slender than common raccoons and have pointed faces, while raccoons have rounder faces with black "masks" around their eyes and dark fur. Typically, fishers prey on creatures that are smaller than themselves. Although it's doubtful that fisher cats intentionally pursue raccoons, they might take advantage of an opportunity if they're starving or come upon babies or young raccoons. Foxes  Foxes are found worldwide emerson gear, in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Foxes eat small mammals like rodents, rabbits, fruits, vegetables, and insects. The red fox is the most common type of fox, and it is found in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most red foxes have a reddish coat and are about the size of a medium-sized dog. Foxes and raccoons are almost similar in size, so a fox could potentially kill a raccoon if it is smaller or younger штаны военные. Additionally, raccoons are nocturnal animals. Some foxes are primarily active during the day, so they are not likely to cross paths very often. But since it's in the wild, the likelihood of contact is still high. Humans Last but not least, humans are perhaps the most significant predator of raccoons, but not for food supply. This is because humans have traditionally hunted raccoons for their fur військовий одяг для жінок. Raccoon pelts were popular in the Eastern United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. They are still used for various purposes, including coats, hats, and gloves. In addition to being hunted for fur, raccoons are also killed because they are considered pests. Raccoons often rummage through trash cans and garbage cans, creating a mess магазин постельного белья. Raccoons also damage property by tearing holes in roofs or walls to get inside buildings. As a result of these activities, humans sometimes trap, shoot, or kill raccoons to remove them. Need Help With Raccoons In Your Property? If you need help with raccoons on your property, contact AAAC Wildlife Removal. We specialize in removing animals that are causing problems for humans, such as by damaging property or getting into garbage cans, without hurting them. Wildlife control companies like ours provide education and information about living peacefully with animals in urban areas ліхтар кемпінговий. This can help prevent conflicts between humans and wild animals. Originally published at AAAC Wildlife Removal: https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/raccoons/raccoon-predators-animals-that-eat-raccoons/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1307

Raccoons (procyon lotor) are some of the most interesting creatures in North America. Though they’re often considered mischievous pests, as they’re known for getting into garbage cans, eating pet food, and spreading diseases like rabies, there’s a lot more to these nocturnal animals than meets the eye. Here are 13 truly interesting facts about raccoons: Raccoons "See" With Their Hands Raccoons are often seen "washing" their food in water before they eat it. This behavior is because raccoons have very dexterous front paws, which they use to feel around and explore their surroundings. Their paws are way more sensitive than human hands and can pick up on things that we would never notice.  When raccoons do their "washing" routine, they actually feel the texture and temperature of objects and things in their environment and try to determine if those are safe to eat or not. Raccoons also have 5 fingers on each paw, which gives them a very human-like grip. This gives them the ability to open jars, doors, and even latches. The Raccoon's Mask Is an Anti-Glare Device!   The raccoon's black mask isn't just for show - it serves an important purpose. These masks help to reduce the glare from the sun and also act as a sort of anti-glare device when raccoons are out at night. Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, so their eyes are very sensitive to light. The mask helps to protect their eyes from the bright lights of the day and the darkness of night. A Raccoon Once Lived in the White House A raccoon once made its home in the White House during Calvin Coolidge's presidency. The female raccoon named "Rebecca" was supposed to be served for Thanksgiving dinner, but she was spared because Coolidge didn't have an appetite for raccoons as he hadn't eaten one before.  Rebecca regularly participated in the White House's annual Easter Egg Roll and was even given her own room in the White House.  Raccoons Are Quite Smart Raccoons are actually quite intelligent. They have been known to remember complex tasks and they are similar to dogs and primates in intelligence. Studies by Vanderbilt University have shown that raccoons have 438 million neurons in their cerebral cortex. This is a significant number, especially when compared to other animals of a similar size, and is just slightly below monkeys. Raccoons are able to remember complex tasks because they have a good working memory. They can also solve problems and figure out how to open locks and doors. In one experiment, raccoons were able to figure out how to open a jar that contained food. Urban raccoons are actually known to be quite adept at opening trash can lids and dumpsters in search of food. Raccoons Were Almost Used as Lab Rats Instead Of Rats! Before rats had been commonly used in laboratory experiments, another animal was being considered for the role: the raccoon. Raccoons were thought to be good candidates for lab experiments. However, they were difficult to maintain compared to the smaller rats, and they also had a tendency to escape and hide in the vents. In the end, the rats were chosen over the raccoons as they were easier to handle and less likely to escape. However, the raccoons still hold a place in history as one of the animals that were considered for this important role. A Comic Book About A Raccoon Caused Japan's Raccoon Problems  A wildly popular comic book in Japan featured a raccoon character named Rascal. The comic book led to the importation of raccoons into Japan, as people wanted to have their own pet raccoons like the one in the book. Today, these pet raccoons have become destructive, invasive species in Japan. As they have no natural predators, they are wreaking havoc by rummaging through garbage cans and causing damage. There Are No Raccoons in Alaska! Besides Hawaii, Alaska is the only state in the US that doesn't have any raccoons. Raccoons live in all 48 of the contiguous states, but they are not able to survive in the cold temperatures of Alaska. It's thought that this is because they are not very particular about the food found in the wild there. So, they are not able to fatten up enough to make it through the long winters. Raccoons were introduced to Alaska in the late 1930s by a raccoon fur farmer, but they didn't seem to take to the state's conditions and haven't been seen since. Raccoons Are Related to Bears Raccoons have often been thought to be related to dogs, cats, and weasels. However, with molecular analysis, it has been shown that they are actually most closely related to bears. This finding is surprising to many, as raccoons and bears are very different animals. However, the two groups share a common ancestor, and over time they have evolved to become the animals we know today. Raccoon Dogs Are Not Related to Raccoons Raccoon dogs are often thought to be related to raccoons, due to their similar names and appearance. However, these two animals are not actually related. Raccoon dogs are a type of canid, which means they are related to dogs, wolves, and foxes. Raccoons, on the other hand, are members of the Procyonidae family, which includes other animals such as ringtail cats and olingos. So, while the resemblance is there, raccoon dogs and raccoons are far from being family. Raccoons Can Run Up To 15 Miles Per Hour Raccoons don't seem like they would be fast runners, with their short legs, bulky bodies, and laid-back demeanor. However, these animals can actually run quite fast when they need to. Raccoons have been known to reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour. This is quite fast for an animal of their size. This speed is helpful when they are trying to run away from predators, or when they are trying to catch their next meal. Female Raccoons Mate With A Single Partner While Males Mate With Multiple Partners When it comes to mating, male and female raccoons have different strategies. Males, who are usually solitary creatures, will mate with multiple females. Females, on the other hand, will usually mate with just one male. The reason for this difference is that it is beneficial for male raccoons to mate with as many females as possible. This ensures that they will be able to father more offspring. For females, it is more beneficial to mate with a single partner, as this will help to ensure the survival of their young. There's Only One Endangered Raccoon Species There are many different species of raccoon, and most of them are doing quite well. In fact, there are only one species that is currently endangered. The pygmy raccoon is found on the island of Cozumel, off the coast of Mexico. This species is critically endangered due to species introduced by humans, such as dogs, cats, and boa constrictors, which prey on them. They are also threatened by habitat loss, as their forest homes are being destroyed for tourism and development. Raccoons Will Eat Anything! Raccoons are omnivorous animals, which means they will eat just about anything. Omnivores are animals that eat both plants and other animals. In the wild, raccoons will eat things like fruits, nuts, berries, fish, insects, frogs, and small mammals. They are also known to eat garbage, pet food, and other human food. Basically, if it looks like it might be edible, a raccoon will give it a try! Final Word Raccoons may seem like simple wildlife, but they are actually quite fascinating creatures. From their unique hands to their useful tails, their surprising speed and strength, to their curious demeanor, there is a lot to learn about these creatures. So, next time you see a raccoon, take a moment to appreciate all that these mammals are, and all that they have to offer. Who knows, you may just find them to be as interesting as we do! Call AAAC Wildlife Removal today if you need help with raccoons! Originally published at AAAC Wildlife Removal: https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/raccoons/13-truly-interesting-facts-about-raccoons/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1352

There are a number of raccoon diseases that can be transmitted to humans. While some of these illnesses are not very serious, others can be quite deadly. In this article, we will discuss the most common raccoon diseases that can be passed on to humans, as well as their symptoms and treatment options. We will also provide tips on how to protect yourself from getting ill. Raccoon Diseases Transmitted to Humans Rabies Rabies is a deadly virus that is most often communicated through the bite of infected raccoons. Rabies is considered to be 100% fatal if it is not treated within a short period of time after infection. However, once symptoms appear, the disease cannot be cured and death usually occurs within several days. The transmission of rabies is from the saliva of the infected mammals, which can be passed on through an open wound, the eyes, or the nose. Any infected mammal will have a noticeable change in its behavior and will become more aggressive. The incubation period for rabies is usually between two and eight weeks but can be as long as a year. Symptoms of rabies in people include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle spasms, and paralysis. Raccoons are one of the animals that can carry rabies. If you got bitten by a raccoon, you should go see your doctor immediately and get a rabies shot. Leptospirosis Leptospira is a bacterium that causes leptospirosis in humans. Which can lead to kidney and liver failure. Animal bites, as well as direct contact with their body fluids or contaminated food or water, can transmit the disease. Raccoons are one of the wildlife that can carry this disease. People who contracted leptospirosis often get a fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, and vomiting. If you think you have been infected with the bacteria, you should see your doctor right away. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics and other medications that can help to fight infection and prevent further damage to organs. Raccoon roundworm Raccoon Roundworm also known as Baylisascaris infection is a serious disease that can be passed on from raccoons to people. The infective eggs are passed in raccoon feces and can infect people who come into contact with contaminated soil or water. Raccoons are considered to be vector species by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) because they can spread disease to other animals and people. People become infected when they eat food, drink liquids, touch their mouth, eyes, or nose after handling contaminated objects, or accidentally swallow the eggs. The symptoms of Baylisascaris infection vary depending on how many eggs are ingested. They can range from mild, such as a rash, to life-threatening, such as paralysis or coma. If you think you have been infected with Baylisascaris infection, you should see your doctor right away. Tularemia Francisella tularensis is a bacterium that causes tularemia in humans and animals. It can be passed on through the bite of an infected animal, as well as by direct contact with their bodily fluids or contaminated food or water. Raccoons could have been shown to carry the tularemia bacterium, which may also be known as "rabbit fever" because rabbits are one of the animals that are most commonly affected. Tularemia is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses, such as flu or pneumonia. If you think you have been infected with tularemia, you should see your doctor right away. Salmonella Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning in humans and animals. Salmonella infection is most commonly caused by eating food that has been contaminated with the bacterium. It can also be spread through contact with an infected animal's feces, saliva, or blood. The symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. If you think you have been infected with salmonella, you should see your doctor right away. Antibiotics are usually given to treat the infection. Edwardsiella septicemia Edwardsiella tarda is a bacterium that causes septicemia in humans and animals. E. tarda is most commonly found in water and food contaminated with the disease can transmit it. It is also possible to contract the bacterium through direct contact with an infected animal's bodily fluids. Infection is extremely rare but can be dangerous and difficult to treat. The symptoms are similar to other illness which includes chills, nausea, and fatigue. If you think you have been infected with septicemia, you should see your doctor right away. Toxoplasmosis Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis in humans and animals. T. gondii can be found in contaminated food or water and can also be transmitted through contact with an infected animal's feces. Raccoons are asymptomatic carriers, which means they do not develop the clinical disease when exposed to the parasite. But they can still pass it on to other animals or people. In Florida, raccoons are kind of like a reservoir for the toxoplasmosis parasite. People who contract toxoplasmosis may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and body aches. It usually just passes in a few weeks, but some people may develop more serious complications. The ones at risk from toxoplasmosis are pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, and the elderly. If you think you have been infected with toxoplasmosis, you should see your doctor right away for treatment. Chagas Disease Trypanosoma cruzi is a protozoan parasite that causes Chagas disease. It is a potentially fatal disease that can be passed on through the feces of triatomine insects, which are known as "kissing bugs." It can also be spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to child during childbirth. Wildlife like rodents, coyotes, and raccoons are common carriers of the disease. The symptoms of Chagas disease can be divided into two phases: the acute phase and the chronic phase. The acute phase is characterized by fever, swollen lymph nodes, and headaches. The chronic phase can last for years and may cause problems with the heart, digestive system, and nervous system. Trichinellosis Trichinella spiralis is a parasitic worm that causes trichinellosis in humans. The parasite is found in contaminated food, such as pork or raccoon meat. It can also be communicated through contact with an infected animal's feces. The symptoms of trichinellosis depend on the stage of infection. In the early stages, there may be muscle pain, swelling, and fever. If the infection progresses, it can cause problems with breathing, heart function, and brain function. The disease usually passes on its own, but in some cases, it can be fatal. Antibiotics and anti-parasitic medications are usually used to treat the disease. Prevention Raccoons are wild animals and should be left alone. If you see a raccoon in your yard, keep children and pets away from it and call animal control to remove it. In most cases, raccoons are reported to be infected with one or more of these diseases and they can transmit them to humans and domestic animals through their feces, urine, saliva, or body fluids. Besides these zoonotic diseases, there are also raccoon diseases that are transmitted to dogs. These include canine distemper, feline parvovirus, and rabies. To protect your pets from these diseases, make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations and keep them away from wild animals. It is important to take proper precautions when coming into contact with raccoons and their droppings. Always wear gloves when cleaning animal feces and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. If you are bitten by a raccoon and have symptoms such as headache, muscle pain, or vomiting then seek medical attention immediately. To prevent the spread of disease from raccoons to humans and domestic animals. Be sure to keep your distance and always practice good hygiene habits. Problems With Raccoon Infestation? Besides the health risks posed by raccoons, they are known to cause a lot of damage to homes and businesses. They can get into roofs, attics, and walls and cause extensive damage. They also steal pet food, birdseed, and other items from yards and gardens. If you are experiencing problems with raccoons or other wild animals on your property, call AAAC Wildlife Removal for professional removal services. Don't attempt to hunt raccoons or remove them yourself, as this is illegal in many states and can be dangerous. Our experts have the knowledge and experience to safely and humanely remove raccoons from your property. We also offer exclusion services to keep them from coming back. Give us a call today! Conclusion Raccoon populations are not only seen as pests but also as dangerous animals because they carry diseases that can be passed on to humans and other animals. It is important to understand how these illnesses spread so we can protect ourselves from getting sick by staying away from raccoons or taking precautions when coming into contact with them. Want to learn more about raccoons? Check out our other articles about them. If you want to know what sounds a raccoon makes or what color is a raccoon, we have that information too! Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/raccoon/raccoon-diseases-transmitted-to-humans/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1509

The raccoon is a curious and intelligent animal that can adapt to its environment. This makes it possible for them to survive in many areas, including cities. With thriving population densities, one would think that the common raccoon has a long life. However, the truth is that they have one of the shortest life expectancies of any North American mammal. The average raccoon lifespan is just two to three years in the wild. The raccoon is not a species that has a large number of young at once. They have 63 days of gestation and when they give birth, they usually just deliver between one and five babies per litter, This means that there aren’t many offspring produced each year by a female raccoon. They also don’t typically mate until they are about 15 months old so life expectancy is markedly lower than other mammals. This article will explore raccoon lifespan as well as the factors that influence it. How long do raccoons live? The average raccoon lifespan depends heavily on whether or not the raccoons are in the wild or in captivity. In the wild, raccoons have very short lives, young raccoons usually die before they reach sexual maturity (1 year). However, if they make it through the first year, their chances of dying are reduced significantly. Wild raccoons tend to live about three to five years on average but can live up to 16 years. Life expectancy of raccoons in captivity In captivity or as domestic animals, the raccoon's lifespan increases dramatically. With proper care (dietary requirements), habitat (adequate space and climbing structures), and veterinary care; captive raccoons can typically expect between 13-20 years if not longer. This is because their chances of getting injured or contracting disease are far less than in the wild. Life expectancy of baby raccoons Baby raccoons have high mortality rates as they are completely dependent on their mothers for food and protection. As many as 50% of baby raccoons may not survive their first year. If their mother dies at this stage, their chance of survival is virtually zero. Raccoon life cycle The lifecycle of a raccoon starts with the mating season, which takes place from February till March. During this time males leave their territories to find females ready for breeding. After about two months of gestation, the female gives birth to between three and five kits (also known as cubs). If a female raccoon is not able to give birth during this time, she'll go through estrus again and can give birth as late as June. Mothers raise young raccoons for 2 - 4 months. She only leaves the den for short periods of time until they are older. During this time, they teach their young how to survive. This includes foraging skills and climbing techniques that help them scavenge food and evade predators. The young raccoons stay with their mother until 1 year, at which point they head out on their own to find food or mate. Raccoon life stages Like many other mammals, raccoons go through several stages throughout their lives: infancy, juvenile, and adulthood. Infancy Born blind and helpless, baby raccoons often weigh less than a pound and are about seven inches long. Their eyes open after around two weeks of age. They develop quickly and are weaned after about two months. Juvenile At this point, their mother will introduce them to solid food that she has caught, including insects, small rodents, birds, eggs, and fruits. They still stay and travel with their mother until they reach their first year (adulthood) at which point they leave and explore the world on their own. They typically stay in the area for one more year before venturing out to find a new territory (if they haven't already done so). Adulthood At 1 year, they are now sexually mature and are ready to breed. Most male raccoons leave their birth territory at this point and set out to find a mate. This is also the time when they become more aggressive; fighting with each other for mates, food, and space. The age of adulthood differs slightly between genders; females are fully mature when they reach 1 year while males usually start breeding a bit later. Factors that affect the lifespan of a raccoon A raccoon's longevity is affected by several factors such as human intervention, climate, predators, and diseases. Human intervention Humans have had a significant impact on the lifespan of raccoons not just through hunting but habitat loss as well. As cities expand more wild raccoons are being driven out to make space for human homes, businesses, and roads which leads to shorter lifespans as they come across more dangers they would not have to deal with in the wild. A raccoon living in urban areas is also generally considered more of a pest as they raid and knock over trash cans and make dens inside homes. This leads to them being targeted by homeowners which can result in their death or injury from traps, poisoning, etc. Furthermore, busy highways in large cities and the fact that raccoons are nocturnal creatures means that they frequently fall victim to collisions with vehicles as they roam at night to look for food. Climate/Weather While raccoons have adaptations that allow them to survive winter, however, long and extremely cold winters still pose a threat. As raccoons are not true hibernators and still need to come out of their den and find food during the winter, scant food sources and harsh conditions can mean that many raccoons perish during the coldest months. Prey availability is also a significant factor in climate affecting longevity in raccoons as animals that are unable to hunt effectively due to lack of food will not live long at all. Diseases Distemper is the most common disease that kills raccoons. This virus attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of raccoons which can result in paralysis or even starvation because they are unable to find food on their own. Other viral diseases such as rabies, infectious canine hepatitis, raccoon parvoviral enteritis, and pseudorabies are less common but are still a threat. There are also bacterial diseases like leptospirosis, yersiniosis, tularemia, Q fever, listeriosis, and pasteurellosis that are known to affect raccoons and further increase their risk of death. In addition to this, parasitic diseases such as Baylisascarisprocyonis (raccoon roundworm), giardia infection can also reduce a raccoon's lifespan. Other parasitic conditions that affect raccoons are trichinosis, mange mites (notorious for making the fur of infected animals fall out), fleas and ticks along with ear mites. Predators Due to their size, an adult raccoon can have few predators beyond humans and other large mammals like wolves or coyotes who are both common in woods where raccoon dens are located. However, it's important not to overlook smaller potential dangers such as hawks, owls, bobcats, etc., which hunt raccoons when they are young and leave their den for the first time. This can mean much shorter lifespans than expected if they aren't able to escape fast enough from these predators. Dangers of DIY removal Removal of raccoons from a home or business is not something that should be handled by an untrained person. In fact, it may be illegal for you to do so in your area without the proper permits and training as raccoons are known to carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets. One of the main reasons for this is because it can be difficult to tell if a raccoon has rabies; while some cases are obvious, there are also many cases where they show no symptoms at all which means that attempting to remove or relocate them yourself will put you in danger as well as any other people or animals who come into contact with them before they have been properly tested by a veterinarian. They can also get aggressive when cornered or when their young are threatened, they can scratch or bite which can result in the spread of diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and raccoon roundworm. Humane removal of raccoons In order to avoid these dangers, it's important that you hire a professional wildlife removal company (like us!) We have experience and expertise when removing or relocating any wild animals including raccoons from your home or business. Whether they're on the roof, under the deck, inside attics, etc., Our job is to humanely remove them without harming the animal - this way everyone remains safe while also avoiding additional damage caused during an amateur attempt at animal control. The best course of action to take if you have a raccoon problem in your home or business area is to contact AAAC Wildlife Removal. We'll handle the situation safely and humanely for all involved. We will not only get rid of any current issue with nuisance animals but also help prevent future conflicts from taking place close to where people live or work. Call us today if you are in need of raccoon removal or have any questions! Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/raccoons/raccoon-lifespan

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1506

Raccoons are intelligent animals and proficient climbers of the family Procyonidae. They have a small head with perky ears, and their body is covered in fur, usually gray or brown. There are several different types of raccoons that you might encounter. The Procyon lotor, or the Northern Raccoon, is the most common raccoon in North America. But, we also have the Eastern Raccoon, Mexican Raccoon, and the Upper Mississippi Valley Raccoon. Knowing them by their name is not enough to differentiate them. So, let's explore the different raccoon species and how they look! Three Main Raccoon Species There are three main types of raccoons. While you may stumble upon some of them in your area, others hide in the wild. Procyon Lotor The Procyon lotor, a.k.a. the common raccoon or the North American raccoon, is the most common and the largest type of raccoon in North America. These are the species that you often see lurking around your property. It has a distinctive black mask around its eyes and a bushy tail with black rings. Its body is covered in gray or brown fur, usually between 40 and 70 centimeters long. They can have a body weight of between 5 to 26 kilograms. Procyon Cancrivorus The Procyon cancrivorus is also called the crab-eating raccoon. As apparent as their name suggests, these species love to eat crabs. However, they may still consume a wide food variety like other raccoons. They are a tropical raccoon species found in the wilds of South America and some regions of Costa Rica. This type of raccoon is smaller than the Procyon lotor. Although they still possess the same characteristics as other raccoons, their skinnier and slimmer look makes them easily identifiable.  Procyon Pygmaeus The Procyon pygmaeus is also referred to as the Cozumel raccoon or the Pygmy raccoon. Among the island raccoons, they form the fifth population. They are found in the wilds of Mexico, specifically on the island of Cozumel. This species is the smallest among all types of raccoons. They only weigh between 1.4 to 4.5 kilograms and have a body length of 40 centimeters. But what sets them apart is the reddish-brown fur. Like its North American counterpart, this type also has a black mask around its eyes. Sad to say, you may not see this (or only rarely) roaming in your neighborhood as they are endangered species. Common Raccoons In North America Aside from the three main species, there are also other types of raccoons that you may find. They might not be as popular as the three main species, but they definitely exist! Eastern Raccoon (Procyon lotor lotor) The first from the list is the Eastern raccoon. As its name suggests, this species is found in the eastern parts of North America. To be more specific, their natural habitat ranges from Canada all the way down to the northeastern and United States. They are also one of the most popular types of raccoons kept as pets. One distinctive feature of this species is the black mask surrounding their eyes. Their body is also covered in gray or brown fur, which can grow up to 70 centimeters long. They are nocturnal animals, so you'll mostly see them at night time. Hilton Head Island raccoon (Procyon lotor salutus) Next on the list is the Hilton Head Island raccoon. They are primarily found on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, still present throughout the state. They are also one of the many types of raccoons that have been exported and introduced to other countries. This species is very similar to the Eastern raccoon. The only difference is their fur color, which can be lighter or darker than the typical gray or brown. They also have a yellow patch at the back of their neck. Chesapeake Bay raccoon (Procyon lotor maritimus) The Chesapeake Bay raccoon is found in the coastal marshes surrounding the Chesapeake Bay. They are one of the many semi-aquatic raccoons, meaning they spend a lot of time in the water. While the size of an adult raccoon varies considerably, one distinctive feature of this species is its slightly larger size. Their fur is also thicker and longer to protect them from the cold temperatures in their habitat. When the bay surrounding their inhabited area is not frozen, this raccoon's diet revolves around seawater clams. They also eat fish, frogs, small snakes, and other amphibians. Florida raccoon (Procyon lotor elucus) Found in the peninsula of Florida, the Florida raccoon is distinguishable for the rust metallic patch on its neck and lesser teeth than other species. They appear as humped because most of them have inflated sinuses. They are also good swimmers. This is because their webbed hind feet act as paddles when in the water. Saint Simon Islands raccoon (Procyon lotor litoreus) The Saint Simon Islands raccoon is found on the Saint Simon Islands off the coast of Georgia. They are one of the many island-dwelling raccoons in North America. This species is very similar to the Eastern raccoon but has few distinctions. For one, their skulls are smaller than that of the Eastern raccoon. They also have a longer and denser coat of fur. The average length of their fur is about 10 centimeters. Like the crab-eating raccoons, these species have specially built dentition that makes them expert hunters of crabs. They have a "mouth line with teeth" uniquely adapted for crushing the hard shells. Key Vaca raccoon (Procyon lotor auspicatus) Key Vaca raccoons are found on the South and Middle Keys in Florida. They get their name from the Key Vaca, one of the islands they inhabit. They are sometimes observed crossing along the bridges that connect the Florida Keys to mate with the Torch key raccoon. This species is similar to the Florida raccoon but has a few distinctions. One is that their fur is shorter and coarser. They also have a reddish brown color than the Florida raccoon's grayish brown. Matecumbe Bay raccoon (Procyon lotor inesperatus) The Matecumbe Bay raccoon is found in the Florida Keys, particularly on the Key Largo islands approaching Miami. Unlike other raccoons, these species have a smaller mask and lighter fur. Texas raccoon (Procyon lotor fuscipes) As the name suggests, the Texas raccoon is found in the southwestern region of the United States. Their range extends from Arkansas to Oklahoma and Texas. Texas's northern and western regions are the only part where their presence is undetected. Their mask is specifically jet black. While other species remain solitary, Texas raccoons choose to go against the current and become social animals. This means that they live and forage for food together with other species from their family. In fact, a group of up to 10 of these wild raccoons is not an uncommon sight. They can invade two acres of a corn field and overturn numerous garbage cans in a neighborhood. Alabama raccoon (Procyon lotor varius) The Alabama raccoon is found throughout the southeastern United States. Their range extends from Virginia to Florida and Mississippi. They have yellowish fur on their backs and reddish brown on their snout area. The Alabama raccoon is the most likely of all species to carry the roundworm parasite. This is because their diet consists mainly of crayfish, which are often infected with the worm's larvae. If not treated, this can be fatal to both humans and animals. Upper Mississippi Valley raccoon (Procyon lotor hirtus) The Upper Mississippi Valley raccoon is found along the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Wisconsin. They are also present in some parts of Iowa and Illinois. This species has a thick coat of fur that helps protect them from the cold weather in their range. The Upper Mississippi Valley raccoon is one of the largest among all raccoon species. And these species are known for their far range. They may travel as far as 6 miles to search for food. Mexican raccoon (Procyon lotor mexicanus) You can easily recognize the Mexican raccoon because of its unusually long snout, different from a typical raccoon. They also have broad, dark masks and bristled gray fur, becoming one of their notable features. Mexican raccoons are large raccoons that exist throughout Mexico to the Yucatan peninsula. Most popularly in the area, they are called the Kudamundi. Other Raccoon Species Aside from the list above, other raccoon species include the following: Hoffmann's Two-toed Sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) Guadeloupe Raccoon (Procyon lotor minor) Sanborn's Central American raccoon (Procyon lotor sanborni) Tres Marias raccoon ( Procyon lotor insularis ) Despite the rich ecosystem, it's not avoidable that they may share similar physicalities with other mammals. But, this does not necessarily mean they belong in the same genus.  Animals that do share a similar appearance with raccoons include the Kusimanse, Bassaricyon, Binturong, Kinkajou, Olingo, and Coatis, as well as the genera Ailuridae, Canidae, Felidae, and Mustelidae. Final Word The raccoon family is a fascinating group of creatures that have adapted to live in a wide range of environments. They have three main species: the Procyon lotor, Procyon Pygmaeus, and Procyon Cancrivorous. Under them, some species differ in appearance, features, and location. These are the Florida raccoon, the Matecumbe Bay raccoon, the Texas raccoon, the Alabama raccoon, and the Upper Mississippi Valley raccoon. While they may look cute and cuddly, it's important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated cautiously. If you're lucky enough to spot one, enjoy the experience from a distance! Now that you know the different kinds, it'll be easier to identify them the next time you see one! Remember to avoid wild animals and if you're interested in learning more about the types of raccoons and their characteristics, click here: types of raccoons. Understanding their variations can deepen your knowledge and appreciation of these remarkable creatures. If you encounter any wildlife issues or require professional assistance, AAAC Wildlife Removal is just a call away. Our team specializes in safe and humane wildlife removal, ensuring the well-being of both humans and animals.

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

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