Los Angeles residents often face problems such as garden destruction, property damage and nesting in the home. California raccoons do all of these things. It’s worth learning more about these wildlife species and that’s exactly what Los Angeles Name will share with you next.
California categorizes raccoons as furbearers and considers them a non-endangered species. The Fish and Wildlife Department has set specific regulations for harvesting raccoon fur. California law prohibits residents from keeping wild animals, including raccoons, as pets. Under California law, it’s illegal for residents to keep wild animals like raccoons as pets.
The following information is worth knowing about these wild animals common in California:
- They typically weigh between 12 and 35 pounds, with males generally weighing 10 to 30 percent heavier than females. Their length ranges from 20 to 40 inches.
- The mating season for California raccoons generally falls between February and March. Some sources indicate that the mating season may extend from late January to early February.
- The gestation period lasts about 63 days.
- They are highly adaptable creatures since they can eat various foods. For example, if it’s plant food, it can eat fruits, nuts, citrus fruits and watermelons. They are also real survivors, eating whatever they can find — crayfish, insects, frogs, fish, even bird eggs.
- Raccoons are generally most active at night and their nocturnal behavior can disturb homeowners’ sleep and lead to various issues.
- They possess strong bodies and nimble, dexterous paws.
- In the wild, they encounter dangers from coyotes, hawks, owls and wolves. That’s why their amazing night vision and unique agility are such valuable assets.
- Raccoons are quite clever creatures and tend to show aggression when they feel threatened.
- In their natural habitat, these animals typically live around 3 to 5 years, though some individuals can live up to 16 years. When kept in captivity, they can live as long as 21 years.
City residents often underestimate California raccoons, but they can adversely affect both rural and urban areas.
Raccoons are generally not considered aggressive, but it’s wise for Los Angeles residents to contact a professional if they spot one. The situation can become especially complicated when they nest or care for their young.
Protection of your property
It is worth looking into why California raccoons can be a nuisance to city residents.
- California raccoons can destroy your garden. They may dig into the ground looking for insects, damage the roots of plants, or dig up your lawn looking for food or a resting place.
- Animals damage property.
- A female raccoon may take up residence on your property.
- Raccoons may live under your house or settle in your attic.
Property owners are surprised by all of the points listed above and it’s no surprise that having raccoons on the property makes their residents feel afraid and uncomfortable. But really, it’s pretty straightforward. Raccoons are looking for homes with improper sealing and they find their way in. Animal Capture Wildlife Control team shared that they have even encountered situations where raccoons have ripped an underfloor vent to make themselves home in the space beneath the bathroom.
While city residents face issues with damaged homes and trash cans that attract these furry creatures, those in rural areas deal with raccoons harming their birds and crops.
Choosing a raccoon removal service in Los Angeles
Besides causing physical damage, raccoons can transmit various diseases, like rabies, encephalitis, toxoplasmosis and tuberculosis. They can also introduce ticks, lice and fleas. In fact, raccoons are among the most common carriers of rabies in the United States. Therefore, hiring a raccoon removal service is not just about eliminating the animals but also about protecting your family’s health.
This service is popular among locals seeking to protect their property. When choosing a removal service, it’s crucial to ensure they use humane methods.
Many Los Angeles residents wonder if there are ways to prevent raccoons from invading their homes. There are actually quite a few tips and strategies available on how to keep California raccoons from making your home or property their own. The best approach is to identify potential entry points and find solutions to seal them.
Intriguing facts
A common belief is that raccoons in California wash their food before consuming it. While this idea is interesting, it’s not true. In fact, California raccoons spend a lot of time in and around bodies of water, exploring the debris in them and the nooks and crannies nearby. When they find something edible, they like to roll it around with their front paws. This behavior helps them get a better sense of what they have discovered.
Studies have shown that the sensitivity of raccoons’ paws actually increases after they become wet. Many city residents have mistakenly assumed that raccoons wash their food before consuming it, based on their observations of these creatures near water.
Although raccoons are nocturnal, you can spot them in the trees during the day. It’s explained by the fact that California raccoons like to bask in the sun while they rest. Their best option is to climb a tree, which is easy for nimble climbers and provides a quick escape from anyone chasing them.
The primary reason adult raccoons lose their lives is due to automobile accidents. Following that, humans, trapping services and dogs. Additionally, raccoons face threats from predators, as well as diseases and parasites.