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How to Find Raccoons

Knowing how to find raccoons will save a hunter or nature lover time and effort. The raccoon is nocturnal member of the procyonid family. Known for nimble, small hands, the ring-tailed creatures can adapt themselves to open the doors of hunting cages and human habitats. While, to many, the raccoon appears cuddly and cute, the nature of the animal can be fierce when necessary. Before going in search of these masked bandits, remember they can and will fight back if frightened or cornered.

Instructions

- 1
  Look for areas fit for a raccoon habitat. Raccoons dwell in the forks of trees, under thick shrubs, in ground holes and small caves in non-urban areas. Dumpsters, attics, house crawl spaces, garages and barns are called home in urban areas.
- 2
  Find water sources. While raccoon habitats vary, they are typically close to a water source. Streams, rivers, ponds and lakes are likely places to find raccoons in the wild. Retaining pounds, ditches and garden ponds make urban watering holes for raccoons.
- 3
  Identify food sources. Raccoons reside in areas where tree nuts, mice, snakes, birds, small fruits and vegetables are available for consumption. In urban settings, dumpsters and home gardens provide food for the animals.
- 4
  Look for tracks. Raccoons leave tracks that appear like small finger marks in the dirt.
- 5
  Go at night. When finding raccoons, the best time to look is at night. The nocturnal creatures sleep or remain inside during most of the daytime hours.

Animals & Science