Can You Touch a Wild Raccoon?

Raccoons are wild animals that are often seen in urban and suburban areas. While they may look cute and cuddly, it is important to remember that they are still wild animals and should not be touched. In this article, we will discuss why it is not safe to touch a wild raccoon and what to do if you encounter one.

Why You Should Not Touch a Wild Raccoon

Raccoons are wild animals and can be dangerous if they feel threatened. They can carry a variety of diseases, including rabies, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Raccoons can also be aggressive if they feel threatened or if they are protecting their young. It is best to keep your distance and observe from a safe distance.

What to Do if You Encounter a Wild Raccoon

If you encounter a wild raccoon, it is important to remain calm and back away slowly. Do not make any sudden movements or loud noises, as this could startle the raccoon and cause it to become aggressive. If the raccoon does not move away, you should call animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

Pro Tip

If you have pets, it is important to keep them away from wild raccoons. Raccoons can be aggressive towards pets and can transmit diseases to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Touch a Pet Raccoon?

No, it is not safe to touch a pet raccoon. Pet raccoons can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, and they can also be aggressive.

What Should You Do if You Find a Baby Raccoon?

If you find a baby raccoon, it is important to leave it alone and contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. It is not safe to touch a baby raccoon, as it may be carrying diseases or may be aggressive.

In conclusion, it is not safe to touch a wild raccoon. Raccoons can carry diseases and can be aggressive if they feel threatened. If you encounter a wild raccoon, it is important to remain calm and back away slowly. If the raccoon does not move away, you should call animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. Additionally, it is important to keep pets away from wild raccoons, as they can transmit diseases to them.

Summary:

In this article, we discussed why it is not safe to touch a wild raccoon and what to do if you encounter one. Raccoons can carry a variety of diseases, including rabies, and can be aggressive if they feel threatened. If you encounter a wild raccoon, it is important to remain calm and back away slowly. Additionally, it is important to keep pets away from wild raccoons, as they can transmit diseases to them. If you find a baby raccoon, it is important to leave it alone and contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.