Nuisance Wildlife - Raccoons

Raccoons are found in all types of habitats. They are especially active at night, looking for food. The raccoon is a seasonal eater that prefers fish, small mammals, seeds, fruits, vegetables, insects, etc. The long, slender toes on the front feet give the raccoon great dexterity in grasping food, and the larger surfaces on the back feet give it superb agility in climbing for food. Despite urbanization and land development taking away the majority of their natural romping grounds, raccoons have adapted and flourished. Raccoons topple our garbage cans, nest in our attics, roam our lawns for food, and prey upon the fish in our ponds.

A raccoon may bite if it perceives a threat to its well-being, such as being grabbed or petted. The best thing for the raccoon is to be left in its own territory where it can find food and know where there is a safe shelter.

The removal of nuisance raccoons can be handled by professional, private wildlife trappers.

Local wildlife trappers:

• Jeff Lecompte: (985) 637-5615
• Mike Hotard: (504) 352-1097

**Note: TPAS is not recommending any wildlife trappers listed, but merely providing the information as a public convenience.

Anyone interested in becoming a licensed wildlife rehabilitator can find information at wlf.louisiana.gov.

For more information, visit the Nuisance Wildlife webpage or call (985) 873-6709.