What is what to do when you see a raccoon?

Here's what to do when you encounter a raccoon:

• Stay Calm and Observe: The first step is to remain calm and observe the raccoon from a safe distance. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle it.

• Do Not Approach: Never approach or attempt to touch a raccoon, even if it appears friendly or injured. Raccoons are wild animals and can carry diseases, like rabies, and may bite or scratch if they feel threatened. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Avoid%20Contact

• Keep Your Distance: Maintain a generous distance, ideally at least several feet. This will reduce the likelihood of the raccoon feeling threatened and reacting defensively.

• Protect Your Pets: If you have pets with you, keep them leashed and under control. Raccoons can be aggressive toward domestic animals, especially if they feel their territory is being invaded. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pet%20Safety

• Secure Food Sources: Raccoons are attracted to food. Secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, and don't leave pet food or other potential food sources outside. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Secure%20Food

• Leave it Alone: In most cases, the best course of action is to simply leave the raccoon alone and allow it to go on its way.

• Report if Necessary: If the raccoon appears sick, injured, or is behaving aggressively, contact your local animal control or wildlife authorities. Signs of rabies in raccoons include disorientation, unsteadiness, and unusual aggression. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Contact%20Authorities

• Discourage Future Visits: Make your property less attractive to raccoons by trimming overgrown vegetation, sealing potential entry points into your home, and removing any standing water sources. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Prevent%20Future%20Encounters