Most of us know raccoons for being the dumpster divers and food scavengers they are. But what you may not know, is that they are the most active during the Springtime. This is when most raccoons are coming out of their winter torpor and are out and about in neighborhoods. Raccoons play an important role in our ecosystem during this season, as they help maintain and distribute seeds from whatever they may catch or rummage through. Read on to learn more about why raccoons are more active in the spring and what to do if you need removal or prevention in your neighborhood. 

Reasons why raccoons are more active in the Spring

Scavenging for food 

The warmer weather attracts raccoons to leave their hibernation and go out to find food. When Spring rolls around, more food sources like plants and insects do as well. Raccoons’ common sources of nourishment are blooming and more readily available during the Springtime, so they are out searching for some to bring back to their families. Raccoons are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. Some common food sources for raccoons include insects, fruits, vegetables, fish and snakes. 

Looking to mate

Mating season usually starts between the months of January and February for female and male raccoons. The season sometimes lasts longer, especially as the weather is nice and the male raccoons tend to sneak out in search of the females. Raccoons’ most popular time for having their babies is during the Spring when the weather starts to get warm. This keeps them very busy as they look over their newborns and nurture them on their own. Most mothers take on the sole responsibility and care for their families alone. They are actively looking for shelter and food in the Springtime to keep their families safe. 

How can you keep your property safe during the Spring?

Having proper raccoon prevention during the Spring season is a smart way to risk your chance of these unwanted guests in or near your property. These helpful measures will not only keep out raccoons, but squirrels, skunks and more:

• Do not leave out food
• Close up any garbage or loose trash outside
• Secure any entry ways in your home, such as the attic, chimney and vents
• Gather your crops and vegetables when they are ripe
• Regularly check for damage from unwanted creatures in your neighborhood

Professional Raccoon Removal

Spring is the most common season where raccoons become a nuisance to humans. If not professionally removed, raccoons can cause serious damage to your home and backyard. Not only will they dig up your trash and garden, but they can make their way through your property by tearing up roof shingles on your home. It’s important to stop raccoons before they can make a den in your attic and cause even more damage. At Baystate Wildlife, we offer 24 hour service and are certified in proper raccoon removal and extinction. We take care of raccoons in a safe and humane way by not only saving you and your family from trauma, but also them as well. Contact us today for raccoon removal and prevention in surrounding cities near you!