Beasts Begone! Raccoon

RACCOON

Relatively large (10 to 30 lb.) with distinctive black "mask" and ringed tail. Mostly, but not exclusively, nocturnal. Frequent invader of attics, chimneys, and under decks. Occasionally found in wall voids and crawl spaces.

Access Routes

Trees adjacent to or overhanging roofs; downspouts; fire escapes; corners of structures (if siding allows climbing); brick chimneys.

Entry Sites

Vents (such as roof, soffit, gable, fan); uncovered chimneys; deteriorated roofs or eaves; open decks and underneath structural additions.

Sounds

Adults: growls, soft grunts; juveniles: loud, bird-like chattering. Heavy walking in attics.

Fecal Droppings

Variable in appearance and size. Often dog-like. Seeds and fruit parts may be obvious. Often accumulate in regularly used "toilet" sites on roofs and in attics.

Odor

Distinctive and recognizable with experience.

Hair

Back and sides of animal, 1 to 2 inches long: each hair partitioned into dark/light/dark sections.
Belly: light colored.
Tail: light (may have reddish cast) or dark.

Other Signs

Claw marks especially at climbing locations and around entry holes.
"Grubbing" (digging up turf for grubs and other food).

Tracks:   Front: 3 in.  Back: 3 1/2 in.

About This Site

These pages are maintained by the New York State IPM Program, part of Cornell Cooperative Extension. All material is protected by Section 107 of the 1976 copyright law. Copyright is held by Cornell University and the New York State IPM Program.