Discovering animal tracks around your property can be intriguing, and identifying them is the first step in understanding your local wildlife. Among the most common and recognizable are Racoon Prints. Often mistaken for small human handprints, these tracks tell a story about the presence and activities of raccoons nearby. This guide will help you accurately identify racoon prints, understand what they signify, and know what steps to take if you find them on your property.
Identifying Raccoon Paw Prints: Front and Hind
Raccoon paws are remarkably dexterous, equipped with five toes on both their front and hind feet, resembling miniature human hands. Distinguishing between front and hind racoon prints involves a closer look at their shape and size.
Front Paw Prints
Forepaw prints of raccoons are often described as resembling tiny human handprints. They display five slender fingers extending from a palm-like shape. These prints are typically smaller and more rounded compared to their hind counterparts.
Hind Paw Prints
Hind paw racoon prints share the five-toe structure with the front paws, but they possess elongated heels that often imprint deeply, especially in soft substrates like mud or snow. The heel extension is a key differentiator, making the hind track appear longer than the front track.
Understanding Raccoon Gait and Track Patterns
Raccoons have a distinctive gait, which influences the pattern of their tracks. They distribute their weight unevenly, carrying more weight on their hindquarters. This results in a track pattern where the fore and hind paw prints appear either side-by-side or slightly offset. Observing the gait pattern can further confirm that you are indeed looking at racoon prints. You might notice a slightly waddling or meandering pattern due to their unique weight distribution.
Raccoons frequently traverse muddy areas, which is a significant reason why racoon prints are commonly found in unexpected places. They can easily transfer mud from their paws to surfaces like tabletops, car hoods, or even walls as they explore their surroundings.
Why Finding Racoon Prints Should Raise Awareness
While the sight of racoon prints might seem harmless, their presence can indicate more than just a passing animal. Raccoon tracks can be a sign of nearby raccoon latrines. Latrines are communal defecation sites used by raccoons, and they pose a health concern. Raccoon scat can contain roundworm eggs, which are harmful to humans if inhaled or ingested. Disturbing dried droppings can release these eggs into the air, leading to potential infection. Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted from animals to humans, is another risk associated with raccoon waste. Latrines are often located in sheltered, undisturbed areas such as garages, attics, and wall cavities. Therefore, finding racoon prints can be an early indicator to check these areas for potential latrines and the presence of raccoons.
Common Locations to Discover Racoon Prints
Beyond ground surfaces, racoon prints can be found in various locations around your house, indicating raccoon activity. You might hear raccoons moving within your property, and following the trail can sometimes lead you to their tracks.
Racoon Prints on Walls
Racoon prints on wall
Raccoons are adept climbers, and you might find racoon prints on walls, especially exterior walls leading to roofs or attic access points. Muddy or dusty walls can clearly display their tracks as they navigate vertical surfaces.
Identifying Racoon Prints in Attics
Racoon prints in attic
Attics are prime locations for raccoon activity. Dust layers in attics readily capture racoon prints, making identification easier. Look for tracks on insulation, ductwork, and wooden beams in your attic space.
Identifying Racoon Prints on House Exteriors
Racoon prints on house exterior
Racoon prints on house exterior close up
House exteriors, particularly around entry points, gutters, and downspouts, can bear racoon prints. Check window sills, ledges, and areas under eaves for signs of their tracks.
Racoon Prints Found Outdoors
Racoon prints outdoors in mud
Outdoors, racoon prints are most frequently found in mud, soil, and sand. Gardens, pathways, and areas around water sources are common places to spot their tracks.
Taking Action After Identifying Racoon Prints
Identifying racoon prints is a crucial first step in managing raccoon presence on your property. If you consistently find these tracks, it suggests raccoons are frequenting your space, and it might be time to consider professional intervention. Removing raccoons can be challenging and potentially dangerous for untrained individuals. Wildlife removal experts possess the knowledge and tools to safely and humanely manage raccoon issues. If you are concerned about raccoon activity based on the racoon prints you’ve discovered, contacting a wildlife removal service is a prudent step to ensure both your safety and the humane treatment of the animals.
