What do you feed raccoons, and why do they always look like they're plotting something?

Raccoons, those masked bandits of the animal kingdom, have long fascinated humans with their dexterous paws, curious nature, and uncanny ability to thrive in both urban and wild environments. But one question that often arises is: what do you feed raccoons? The answer is not as straightforward as one might think, and it opens up a broader discussion about their behavior, diet, and the peculiar way they seem to be constantly scheming.

The Omnivorous Opportunists

Raccoons are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal matter. In the wild, their diet is incredibly varied, consisting of fruits, nuts, insects, small mammals, birds, eggs, and even fish. They are also known to scavenge, which is why they are often seen rummaging through garbage cans in urban areas. This adaptability is one of the reasons raccoons have been so successful in colonizing diverse habitats.

But what should you feed a raccoon if you encounter one in your backyard or decide to care for one? The answer depends on whether you’re dealing with a wild raccoon or a domesticated one. Wild raccoons should ideally be left to forage on their own, as feeding them can lead to dependency and alter their natural behaviors. However, if you find an injured or orphaned raccoon, you might need to provide temporary sustenance until it can be rehabilitated.

The Domestic Raccoon Diet

For those who keep raccoons as pets—though this is not recommended in many places due to legal and ethical concerns—the diet should mimic their natural intake as closely as possible. A balanced diet for a pet raccoon might include:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, berries, bananas, carrots, and sweet potatoes are all good options. These provide essential vitamins and minerals.
• Protein Sources: Cooked eggs, chicken, turkey, and fish can be offered in moderation. Avoid raw meat to reduce the risk of bacterial infections.
• Insects and Worms: Mealworms, crickets, and other insects can be a great source of protein and are closer to what raccoons would eat in the wild.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds can be given as treats, but they should be unsalted and given in moderation due to their high fat content.
• Commercial Raccoon Food: Some pet stores sell specialized raccoon food, but it’s essential to check the ingredients to ensure it meets their nutritional needs.

The Plotting Phenomenon

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—or rather, the raccoon in the room. Why do raccoons always look like they’re plotting something? This perception is largely due to their facial expressions and body language. Raccoons have a naturally inquisitive and mischievous demeanor, which is amplified by their distinctive “mask” of dark fur around their eyes. This mask gives them a perpetually sly appearance, as if they’re always up to something.

Moreover, raccoons are highly intelligent animals. They are known for their problem-solving skills and ability to manipulate objects with their nimble paws. This intelligence, combined with their curious nature, often leads them to explore and interact with their environment in ways that can seem calculated or even devious. For example, a raccoon might figure out how to open a latched gate or unscrew a jar lid, actions that can easily be interpreted as “plotting.”

The Urban Raccoon: A Case Study

In urban environments, raccoons have become masters of adaptation. They have learned to navigate the complexities of human habitats, often outsmarting even the most determined homeowners. For instance, raccoons have been known to:

• Raid Garbage Cans: They can open lids, knock over bins, and even untie knots to access food.
• Break into Homes: Raccoons are skilled climbers and can find their way into attics, chimneys, and basements in search of shelter or food.
• Manipulate Objects: They can turn doorknobs, open latches, and even operate simple mechanisms to get what they want.

These behaviors, while impressive, can also be problematic. Raccoons can cause significant damage to property and pose health risks due to the diseases they can carry, such as rabies and leptospirosis. As a result, many people view raccoons as pests, despite their undeniable charm and intelligence.

The Ethical Dilemma of Feeding Raccoons

Feeding raccoons, whether intentionally or unintentionally, raises several ethical questions. On one hand, providing food to a hungry raccoon might seem like a kind gesture. On the other hand, it can lead to a host of problems, including:

• Dependency: Raccoons that become accustomed to being fed by humans may lose their natural foraging skills, making them less capable of surviving on their own.
• Overpopulation: An abundant food source can lead to an increase in the local raccoon population, which can strain resources and lead to conflicts with humans.
• Health Risks: Feeding raccoons can bring them into closer contact with humans, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

For these reasons, wildlife experts generally advise against feeding raccoons. Instead, they recommend taking steps to make your property less attractive to these animals, such as securing garbage cans, removing potential food sources, and sealing off entry points to your home.

The Cultural Significance of Raccoons

Raccoons hold a unique place in human culture, often symbolizing cleverness, adaptability, and mischief. In Native American folklore, raccoons are frequently depicted as tricksters, using their intelligence to outwit other animals and even humans. This portrayal has carried over into modern media, where raccoons are often depicted as cunning and resourceful characters.

One of the most famous raccoons in popular culture is Rocket Raccoon from the Marvel Comics universe. Rocket is a genetically engineered raccoon with human-level intelligence and a penchant for technology and weaponry. His character embodies many of the traits that people associate with real-life raccoons: intelligence, resourcefulness, and a certain roguish charm.

Conclusion: To Feed or Not to Feed?

So, what do you feed raccoons? The answer is nuanced. While raccoons are omnivorous and can eat a wide variety of foods, feeding them is generally not recommended. It can lead to dependency, overpopulation, and health risks. Instead, it’s best to appreciate these fascinating creatures from a distance and take steps to coexist with them peacefully.

As for why raccoons always look like they’re plotting something, it’s likely a combination of their natural appearance and their intelligent, curious behavior. Whether they’re raiding your garbage can or simply watching you from a tree, raccoons are always up to something—even if it’s just figuring out how to get their next meal.

Related Q&A

Q: Can raccoons eat dog or cat food? A: Yes, raccoons can eat dog or cat food, but it should not be their primary diet. These foods are formulated for the nutritional needs of dogs and cats, not raccoons, and may lack certain nutrients that raccoons require.

Q: Are raccoons dangerous to humans? A: Raccoons can be dangerous if they feel threatened or cornered. They are also known carriers of diseases like rabies and leptospirosis, so it’s best to avoid direct contact with them.

Q: How can I keep raccoons out of my yard? A: To deter raccoons, secure your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, remove potential food sources like pet food or fallen fruit, and seal off any entry points to your home or shed. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also help scare them away.

Q: Can raccoons be domesticated? A: While raccoons can be tamed to some extent, they are not truly domesticated animals. They retain many of their wild instincts and behaviors, which can make them challenging and sometimes dangerous pets.

Q: Why do raccoons wash their food? A: The behavior of “washing” food is actually a form of tactile exploration. Raccoons have highly sensitive paws, and wetting their food helps them better understand its texture and edibility. It’s not necessarily about cleanliness.