Raccoons, those masked bandits of the animal kingdom, are a common sight in both rural and urban landscapes. Known for their intelligence and adaptability, one of the key aspects of their survival is their versatile diet. Understanding what raccoons eat is crucial for homeowners and anyone interested in wildlife, especially when trying to manage or prevent raccoon encounters.
The Omnivorous Nature of Raccoons
Raccoons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. This dietary flexibility is a major reason why they thrive in diverse environments. Their diet isn’t fixed; it changes depending on the season, habitat, and availability of food sources. In essence, raccoons are opportunistic eaters, consuming whatever is readily accessible.
Natural Diet in the Wild
In their natural habitats, raccoons have a varied diet consisting of:
- Fruits and Nuts: Berries, apples, acorns, and nuts form a significant part of their plant-based diet, especially in the fall when they are fattening up for winter.
- Insects and Invertebrates: Beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, and worms are common prey, providing essential protein.
- Small Animals: Raccoons are skilled hunters and will prey on rodents, frogs, birds’ eggs, and even snakes.
- Aquatic Creatures: Living near water sources, raccoons frequently consume crayfish, clams, and fish. Their nimble paws are adept at foraging in streams and ponds.
Raccoons in Urban and Suburban Settings
In urban and suburban areas, raccoons adapt their diet to what’s available in human-dominated environments. This often leads to them being considered pests as they exploit human food sources:
- Garbage: Unsecured trash cans are a major attractant for raccoons. They are adept at opening lids and scavenging for discarded food.
- Pet Food: Leaving pet food outdoors is an open invitation for raccoons to feed.
- Compost and Gardens: Raccoons will raid compost piles and gardens for fruits, vegetables, and discarded food scraps.
- Bird Feeders: Birdseed and suet are also appealing food sources for raccoons.
This adaptability to human food sources is why it’s important to secure trash, avoid leaving pet food outside, and take measures to prevent raccoons from accessing gardens and compost.
What Not to Feed Raccoons
While raccoons are adaptable eaters, it’s important not to intentionally feed them. Feeding raccoons can lead to them becoming dependent on humans for food, losing their natural foraging behaviors, and potentially becoming bolder and more problematic. Furthermore, some human foods are not healthy for raccoons.
Understanding what raccoons eat helps in taking preventative measures around your home. By securing potential food sources, you can discourage raccoons from becoming unwanted guests and encourage them to rely on their natural foraging habits.
