Biology of Raccoons

Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are highly adaptable mammals recognized for their distinctive black “mask” markings and ringed tails. In Calgary and surrounding Alberta communities, raccoons are increasingly common around residential areas, dumpsters, and properties where food and shelter are easily available. Understanding their biology helps homeowners recognize risks and prevents costly property damage.

Physical Characteristics

Raccoons are medium-sized mammals with:

• Weight: 8–20 kg
  
  

• Body length: 40–70 cm (not including the tail)
  
  

• Tail: 20–40 cm, with distinct black rings
  
  

• Dense grayish fur
  
  

• Highly dexterous front paws capable of opening latches, containers, and doors
  
  

Their intelligence and problem-solving ability allow them to adapt to both urban and natural environments.

Behavior and Habitat

Raccoons are:

• Nocturnal, most active between dusk and dawn
  
  

• Omnivores, feeding on both plant and animal matter
  
  

• Excellent climbers, often found in attics, chimneys, sheds, and roofs
  
  

• Highly adaptable, living comfortably near humans
  
  

Common habitats include:

• Wooded areas and riverbanks
  
  

• Attics and roof voids
  
  

• Garages and crawlspaces
  
  

• Abandoned burrows
  
  

• Compost bins and garbage areas
  
  

Diet

Raccoons have a very diverse diet, which makes urban areas attractive. They feed on:

• Fruits, nuts, berries
  
  

• Insects and grubs
  
  

• Small mammals and birds
  
  

• Eggs
  
  

• Fish and amphibians
  
  

• Pet food
  
  

• Human food waste, kitchen scraps, and garbage
  
  

Their flexible diet and opportunistic feeding behavior contribute to their survival in cities like Calgary.

Life Cycle

Raccoons reproduce once a year:

Mating Season

• Occurs from January to June, peaking in late winter.
  
  

Gestation

• Lasts about 63 days.
  
  

Kits

• Females give birth to 2–5 kits in early spring.
  
  

• Kits are blind and dependent for the first 6–8 weeks.
  
  

• Young raccoons stay with their mother until fall.
  
  

Lifespan

• In the wild: 2–5 years
  
  

• In urban environments with fewer predators: up to 10–15 years
  
  

Signs of Raccoon Activity

Raccoons leave clear evidence of their presence:

• Loud scratching, thumping, or movement in attics at night
  
  

• Damaged roof shingles or soffits
  
  

• Tipped-over garbage bins
  
  

• Raccoon droppings along fences or property edges
  
  

• Tracks showing hand-like paw prints
  
  

• Rolled-up sod caused by raccoons searching for grubs
  
  

Are Raccoons Dangerous?

Raccoons can pose risks, including:

• Structural damage to roofs, insulation, vents, and attics
  
  

• Contaminated insulation from urine and feces
  
  

• Transmission of diseases (rabies, roundworm) via droppings
  
  

• Aggressive behavior if cornered or protecting their young
  
  

They should never be handled by homeowners.

How to Prevent Raccoon Problems

You can reduce raccoon activity by:

• Securing garbage bins with locking lids
  
  

• Keeping pet food indoors
  
  

• Fixing damaged soffits, vents, and roof gaps
  
  

• Using motion-activated lights
  
  

• Trimming branches that provide roof access
  
  

• Storing compost in animal-proof containers
  
  

Professional Raccoon Control in Calgary

Pest Pro Exterminator provides safe and humane raccoon solutions, including:

• Full property inspection
  
  

• Locating entry points
  
  

• Safe removal and exclusion
  
  

• Disinfection and cleanup of contaminated areas
  
  

• Long-term prevention strategies
  
  

👉 Visit pestproexterminator.ca or call 1-833-579-0860 for expert raccoon control in Calgary.