We all know raccoons can be annoying. They make huge messes around our homes. No matter the contraption we’ve developed to prevent them, they seem to outsmart us. Raccoons are quite intelligent mammals. They’ve evolved to survive in a complicated urban environment. A complete change from the wooded areas they evolved from. A lot of their adaptability comes down to their honed senses, with touch leading the way.

Their hands are sensitive and unique

With five long tapered fingers and nails a raccoon’s hands are useful tools for city living. They can’t grasp with one hand, but can manipulate objects using both palms. Raccoons are great problem solvers. Nearly two thirds of their sensory data is retrieved by handling and wetting materials. Touch is one of their primary senses.

The uniqueness of their hands challenged their brain. Raccoons have evolved to clever adaptable creatures. Through touch their brain is able to interpret a vast amount of information. This is why they’re able to decipher most lockable garbage containers.

They’re omnivores

Raccoons eat plants, animals and insects. It really depends on the time of year. But, they will indulge on whatever’s around. Fruit, grass, berries. Mice, frogs, fish. Insects, grubs, worms are all fair game. However, it rarely eats living mammals and prefers easier prey.

While adjusting to city life raccoons became scavengers. Natural food sources are limited. Garbage cans became a commonplace to find dinner. Scraps and other morsels of food are picked out. Raccoons can simply access most styles of locking garbage containers. There’s little stopping them from finding a meal. Animals with picky diets tend to find it more difficult to adapt to changing or new environments.

Raccoons are highly adaptable

In the wild they prefer to den in hollow trees. But, in urban areas there’s less natural options. Raccoons became adaptable to the different and changing environment. Finding shelter was more challenging. But, easily accessible buildings became hotspots for dens. The animal does whatever it needs to get in. Attics are regular nesting grounds for raccoons. They’re safe, warm and reliable.

Raccoons are incredible climbers. Brick is a simple task. They can scurry up and down chimneys to den on top of the chimney. It most resembles a hollow tree. Uncapped chimneys are very easy to get into.

Ottawa raccoon removal

Make sure to watch for returning raccoons. If they’re coming back to your property then there’s something drawing them there. Maybe they made a home or there’s a food source they enjoy.

If you discover any evidence of an infestation contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff specializes in removing raccoons. We can also prevent their re-entry and repair any damage.

Call us today 1-888-592-0387