The raccoon invasion: cute, but a danger to our nature!

The raccoon invasion: cute, but a danger to our nature!

In recent years, the raccoon in Germany has developed into a real secret darling, even though it is also a problem. This impressive animal, which originally comes from North America, is becoming increasingly common in many cities and forests and thus makes the mind of animal lovers and conservationists hot. A raccoon cub that was recently discovered in an allotment hissed and defended his space, which clearly illustrates that these little robbers are quite defensive. The Wochenkurier reports that there are now more than 1.3 million raccoons in Germany, some of which have spread since their introduction in the 1930s. Some escalated fur farms, others have been deliberately suspended and have been nestled in German cities since then.

raccoons are nocturnal and love life in urban areas where they find plenty of food. The animals have adapted perfectly to the urban conditions. My neighbor often tells how raccoons disappear into its roof tiles through the roofs. They like to nest in unused scales or on attics. It is estimated that raccoons can live up to 20 years, but in freedom the life expectancy is usually only between three and five years.

The challenge through invasive species

raccoons are classified as an invasive way. According to an examination of the lbv they have no closed season and may be hunted uninhibitedly with the exception of mother animals. In Bavaria alone, almost 4,000 raccoons were killed in the 2019/20 hunting season. However, a complete extermination is unrealistic, since the animals can quickly compensate for losses and spread further.

The latest research shows that raccoons can not only be problematic for homeowners, but also for domestic fauna. In nature reserves in Hesse and Saxony-Anhalt, scientists have found that raccoons strongly endanger amphibians and reptiles. An impressive example is the highest number of skin toads that were counted in a nature reserve - over 400 in just one hour! Timo Spaniol, from the Nature Conservation Association of Germany, described these figures as a "depressing record", since raccoons specifically handle the toxins of the toads by skinning them before eating. These research results, which were documented by National Geographic

handling and recommendations

Although many people meet raccoons every day, dealing with them is not always easy. Experts recommend closing garbage cans and securing roof hatches to avoid conflicts. Raccoons are curious and intelligent, but not aggressive. Children's playgrounds and gardens should be protected from them. Once you've moved into the neighborhood, you no longer have it easy to get rid of you.

The question remains: How do we deal with these clever babbits that are becoming more and more part of our urban landscape? A good hand in dealing with them can help minimize damage and to maintain peace between people and nature. Because the raccoons are no longer a niche issue and shape our daily life in many ways.