Raccoon Homes in the Wild
In Whitby, raccoons live in the green spaces (forests and nature preserves). Their home ground can stretch for up to 18 miles, giving them ample space to forage for food. The more heavily wooded an area is, the more suitable it is for raccoons to occupy. The availability of water sources such as rivers and lakes also helps make a location more suitable for raccoons to inhabit as they can get their thirst quenched and grab some food (fish, frogs, etc.) at the same time. They make their dens in the hollow parts of trees and sometimes occupy holes that other animals abandoned. Raccoons have pretty much two main requirements for a den; it must provide protection and it must be away from prying eyes.Raccoon Homes in Developed Areas
As a testament to their adaptability, raccoons also live in the rural and urban areas in Whitby. They establish dens near food sources such as dumpsters and garbage disposal sites. Raccoons love to live near their food source. If they can find suitable dens near a garbage disposal site they will settle there. This is even more likely when shrubbery or a forest is nearby. When there is no suitable green space nearby, raccoons will opt for the next best thing- buildings. They establish dens in dark secluded spaces like abandoned vehicles, chimneys, crawlspaces and attics. If there is space beneath the building, they will take up residence there as well. Spaces with piles of wood on the outside provide perfect den sites for raccoons who will snuggle under the woodpile. Another common area is under a deck, they only need a small opening to find their way in and it makes the perfect home to raise a family. Having shelter and protection plus knowing they will have food close by makes your property a great option.