Raccoons are often misunderstood creatures, and this article debunks five common myths about them. Firstly, raccoons are not aggressive towards humans but may attack if they feel threatened. Secondly, raccoons are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, but will seek shelter during the day. Thirdly, while they may cause damage and spread disease, raccoons have an important role in the ecosystem and should not be exterminated. Fourthly, raccoons have a varied diet and are not just scavengers. Lastly, not all raccoons carry rabies, and it is important to avoid provoking them if encountered. To prevent raccoons from entering your property, secure all trash cans and remove potential food sources.

5 Shocking Myths About Raccoons Revealed

Myth 1: Raccoons are aggressive and attack humans

Contrary to popular belief, raccoons are not naturally aggressive towards humans. They are more likely to try to run away or hide than to attack when confronted. However, if they feel threatened, cornered or provoked, they may attack as a means of self-defense.

Myth 2: Raccoons are nocturnal animals

While raccoons are known to be active at night, they are not strictly nocturnal animals. In fact, they are crepuscular, which means that they are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk. During the day, they may take shelter in trees, hollow logs, or burrows

Myth 3: Raccoons are pests and should be exterminated

Raccoons are considered pests by many homeowners as they can cause damage to property and spread diseases. However, it is important to note that raccoons play an important role in the ecosystem by helping to control insect and rodent populations. Instead of exterminating them, it is better to take preventative measures such as securing trash cans and removing potential food sources to deter raccoons from entering your property.

Myth 4: Raccoons only eat garbage and are not picky eaters

While raccoons are known to scavenge for food in garbage cans, they are not strictly garbage eaters. They have a varied diet and will eat fruits, nuts, insects, birds, and even small animals such as frogs and fish. They are also known to wash their food before eating it to reduce dirt and debris on their food.

Myth 5: Raccoons are carriers of rabies

While it is true that raccoons are one of the most common carriers of rabies in North America, it is important to note that not all raccoons are infected with the disease. In fact, less than one percent of raccoons carry the virus. It is also important to note that not all raccoons with rabies show symptoms such as aggression or foaming at the mouth.

FAQs

Q: What do I do if I encounter a raccoon?

A: If you encounter a raccoon, it is important to stay calm and avoid provoking the animal. If the raccoon is acting aggressively, make loud noises or throw objects nearby to scare it away. If the raccoon is not posing a threat, you can simply leave it alone and give it space to move away.

Q: Should I feed raccoons?

A: No, it is not recommended to feed raccoons as it can encourage them to become too comfortable in human environments and lead to conflicts between raccoons and humans.

Q: How can I prevent raccoons from entering my property?

A: To prevent raccoons from entering your property, it is important to secure all trash cans and remove potential food sources such as pet food or birdseed. You can also install motion-activated lights or sprinklers to scare away raccoons.