Wildlife Removal Services Inc.

Raccoons

Biology:  Raccoons are found throughout the U.S. with the exception of higher elevations.  They are more common in the wooded eastern areas than in the west.  Raccoons are nocturnal.  Adult males are territorial and occupy areas of 3 to 20 square miles with very little overlap with other males.  Females tend to occupy only 1 to 6 square miles.

Mating Habits:  Usually mate only once per year, in February or March, but may occur from December thru June.  Less than half of the females will breed the year after their birth.

Gestation Period:  Approximately 63 days is normal.

Birthing Times:  Usually April or May, but some may not be born until June thru August.

Litter Size:  3 to 5 per litter is typical.

Life Span:  May live as long as 12 years in the wild, but this is extremely rare.

Foods:  Diet consists of both plant and animal foods, including fruits, berries, nuts, acorns, grains, crayfish, clams, fish, frogs, insects, mice, rabbits, turtle eggs, and bird eggs.

Hibernation:  Raccoons do not truly hibernate, but may hole up in dens during periods of severe weather.   This inactivity may last for weeks or months.

Legal Status:  Not protected by federal law, but state & local regulations may apply.

Catch & Release Status:  It is ILLEGAL to release this or any animal on the land(s) of another without written permission from the landowner.  This is the LAW in the state of Ohio.