What Should You Do if You Encounter a Raccoon

1. What Should You Do if You Encounter a Raccoon 416-429-5393 833-833-4295 hawkeye@hawkeye.ca

2. Why Are Raccoons Dangerous? • Raccoons can carry rabies, a deadly virus that can be transmitted to humans through a bite or scratch. • They can be aggressive, especially if they are cornered or feel threatened. • They are known to raid trash cans and can create a mess around your property, spreading garbage and potentially attracting other pests.

3. What Should You Do if You Encounter a Raccoon? • Do not approach the raccoon. If you see a raccoon, do not approach it. • Do not try to touch the raccoon. Even if the raccoon seems friendly, it's best to avoid touching it. • Stay Calm: If you come across a raccoon, remain composed and avoid sudden movements or loud noises. • Use a Long Weapon. If the raccoon attempts to approach you, use a long-handled weapon like a broom, a shovel, a chair, or other object to fend them off, if possible.

4. What Should You Do if You Encounter a Raccoon? • Secure Pets and Children: If you have pets or small children, bring them indoors to prevent any potential conflicts. • Avoid Eye Contact: Avert direct eye contact with the raccoon, as it might perceive it as a threat. • If the raccoon is acting aggressively, make yourself appear larger. Stand up, shout, and wave your arms. If the raccoon continues to approach, throw or spray water, or even stones if needed. • If the raccoon is injured, call Hawkeye. Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control will be able to safely capture and transport the raccoon to a rehabilitation center.

5. What NOT to Do if You Encounter a Raccoon • Don't Run: Running away can trigger a chase response in raccoons. • Don't Yell or Scream: Loud noises may agitate the raccoon and lead to defensive behavior. • Don't Corner the Raccoon: Always provide an open path for the raccoon to retreat safely. • Don't Feed the Raccoons: Feeding raccoons can create dependence and increase the risk of conflicts.

6. How Can You Prevent Conflicts with Raccoons? • Keep your garbage cans tightly sealed. Raccoons are attracted to food, so it's important to keep your garbage cans tightly sealed. • Trim back any trees or shrubs that touch your house. Raccoons can use these as a way to get into your attic or other areas of your home. • Seal any holes or cracks in your home's foundation. Raccoons can squeeze through small openings, so it's important to seal any holes or cracks in your home's foundation.

7. How Can You Prevent Conflicts with Raccoons? • Do not leave pet food or water outside. Raccoons will be attracted to any food or water that is left outside. • If you see a raccoon in your yard, do not try to shoo it away. This may only make the raccoon more aggressive. Instead, call Animal Services for assistance. • Close off Entry Points: Seal any openings or holes in your home to prevent raccoons from entering attics, basements, or crawl spaces. • Install Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers: These can deter raccoons from approaching your property. • Raccoon-Proof Your Garden: Use fences and wire mesh to protect your plants and crops.

8. Reference Links • The Ethics of Humane Raccoon Removal • What Attracts Raccoons To My Property? • Raccoon Control & Removal In Toronto • Why Should I Hire A Licensed Trapper To Trap Raccoons? • Reasons Why You Should Avoid Removing A Raccoon Yourself • Keep Raccoons At Bay: Effective Ways To Raccoon-Proof Your Home

9. Contact Us Hawkeye in Canada 416-429-5393 Hawkeye in U.S.A 833-833-4295 hawkeye@hawkeye.ca

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