What does it mean when a raccoon approaches you?

They may be hiding babies somewhere and will attack you in order to protect their little ones. They may also be rabid, which would mean that they’d come at you regardless of the situation, ready to attack and bite you by simply getting near them.

Can raccoons be docile?

In most instances, there will be no problems – as stated, raccoons are relatively docile – but in that rare situation where Mother Nature kicks in and the wild animal seeks to protect itself or act on its natural instincts, it immediately becomes a threat to the health and safety of the people around it, which could …

Do raccoons approach humans?

Raccoon populations have adapted to live in urban areas in many parts of the country out of necessity and may appear comfortable approaching humans, but as with most wildlife the best thing humans can do for raccoons is leave them alone.

Can you be friends with a raccoon?

It’s not uncommon for people to attempt to befriend wildlife. Raccoons in particular are at risk from people trying to befriend and tame them. As one of the more common carriers for rabies, raccoons are quickly euthanized when they appear to show unusual or fearless behavior.

What is rabid raccoon?

A raccoon that has rabies often has difficulty walking, whereas a healthy raccoon is normally nimble, quick, and constantly on the move. A rabies-infected raccoon may appear to be confused as to where it is or move very slowly. A raccoon sick with rabies could start foaming at the mouth.

What do you do if a raccoon approaches you?

Clap your hands, yell at the raccoon, and step towards it—that should be enough to convince it to run off. A spray with a hose, tennis balls thrown in its direction, banging a pot or using an airhorn can also be effective at reminding raccoons that you’re a scary predator.

What should you do if you encounter a rabid raccoon?

If you meet a raccoon that appears aggressive, back away from the animal quickly. Do everything you can to get away from the animal and avoid contact. If the raccoon pursues you, use any outer clothing you may have like a jacket or backpack to cover your arms, neck, face, and head.

What happens if you get bit by a raccoons with rabies?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only one human has ever died from the raccoon strain of rabies. A rabid raccoon is usually dead within 1-3 days of becoming infectious, and even if you’re bitten by a rabid raccoon, effective post-exposure treatment is available.

Is it safe to handle a raccoon with a rabid bite?

Rabies is life-threatening if the bite goes untreated. With that said, it is best to avoid handling raccoons, especially those animals that look sick. A rabid raccoon can be identified by its behavior. You have to understand that this disease can be contracted through the rabid raccoon’s saliva.

Is a raccoon rabid when it is active during the day?

Rarely is a raccoon rabid when it is active during the daytime. While daytime behavior could be an indicator of rabies, finding a raccoon during the day isn’t sufficient evidence to qualify that raccoon as rabid. As most people are already aware, raccoons are primarily nocturnal creatures.

What should you do if you meet a raccoon?

If the raccoon pursues you, use any outer clothing you may have like a jacket or backpack to cover your arms, neck, face, and head. These kinds of encounters are rare, but you should be prepared if you believe you may meet a raccoon. Having a sturdy jacket and pepper spray is probably the best way to fend off an attack from a rabid raccoon.

What should I do if my pet is scratched by a raccoon?

If you, a family member, or your pet is bitten or scratched by a raccoon, immediately seek treatment. There is a 2-4 week incubation period before the symptoms start to manifest.