I FOUND A RACCOON

Raccoons are a state listed rabies vector species (RVS) that have an increased risk for contracting the virus. In Pennsylvania, RVS are: raccoon, groundhog, bat, skunk, fox, and coyote. Should you encounter any sick, orphaned, or injured RVS, DO NOT handle them. Please call the clinic for guidance and how to proceed.

If You Find a Raccoon That:

  • Is displaying physical injuries (dragging limbs, bleeding, unable to stand/walk)

  • Uncoordinated and/or circling

  • Has been hit by car

  • Is stuck in a leg hold trap

  • Had been attacked by a dog

This is an emergency. Receive immediate support by calling our clinic or contact your local wildlife rehabilitator.

If You Find a Raccoon That:

  • Is out during the day

  • Is young and alone

This is okay! Many nocturnal animals will also be active during the day. This is often noticed during winter months and during baby season when mother raccoons are raising their young. Mother raccoons will often leave their young in areas they deem safe while going out to forage for food. This does not mean the babies are abandoned but instead are waiting at “daycare” for mom to return. If you notice the babies have been alone for prolonged periods of time, call our clinic or contact your local wildlife rehabilitator.

Humane Exclusion Saves Lives

Humane exclusion is the best way to evict raccoons while keeping families together. If a mother raccoon has made a den in an attic, chimney, or crawl space, avoid trapping—this can separate her from her babies, leaving them orphaned. Instead, use gentle deterrents like bright lights, loud noises (talk radio or music), and strong smells like predator urine. Providing a safe exit, such as a one-way door, allows her to leave but not return. To ensure she has time to move her young, give her a few days before sealing entry points. Always check for babies before closing access—keeping the family together ensures a humane, stress-free solution.

Raccoon Backyard “Daycare”

Older raccoon kits are often left in a “daycare-like” situation while their mother is out foraging. She will tuck them away in a safe spot, such as a quiet backyard, under a porch, or other sheltered space, and return later to nurse and care for them. If you find young raccoons alone, it’s best to wait and observe from a distance—mom is likely nearby and will come back. Attempting to remove them can cause unnecessary stress and may separate the family.

All Alone?

There are several reasons why people might see a baby raccoon alone:

  1. Mom is Out Foraging – Mother raccoons leave their kits in a safe place while they search for food. She will return later to care for them.

  2. Accidental Separation – If a den is disturbed (e.g., during construction, tree trimming, or attic repairs), a baby may get separated from its mother.

  3. Mom is in the Process of Moving Them – Raccoon mothers often relocate their young one by one to a new den. If you see a baby alone, she may be coming back for it.

  4. Injury or Orphaning – If the mother has been hit by a car, trapped, or otherwise harmed, the baby may truly be orphaned and in need of help.

  5. Curious Explorer – Older kits sometimes wander from the den, especially if they are learning to climb or becoming more independent.

If you find a baby raccoon alone, observe from a distance before intervening. In many cases, mom will return!

Do you still have questions after reading the information above? Receive immediate support by calling our clinic or contact your local wildlife rehabilitator.