Raccoons do not dig holes in the ground, but instead, they will use old burrows that have been abandoned by different burrow-digging animals, such as opossums or rabbits. They might also find hollow trunks and logs and use them as dens.
These animals can make their dens in suburban and urban environments. Raccoons are very resourceful animals and are able to build their dens in most places, however, there are more common areas where they will have their nest located. Thus, they can make their dens in rock crevices, haystacks, brush piles, sheds, crawl spaces, chimneys, sewers, attics, and under decks, amongst other places.
They usually will have more than one burrow available for use at any given time. The animal won’t usually occupy a den for more than two days in a row, except when the mother has given birth to young ones or when the weather is extreme.
What Kind Of Holes Do Raccoons Dig?
Raccoons dig thanks to their strong forelimbs and using their skills. The holes that they dig are usually very small, about three inches deep and ten inches wide. This is because these animals are able to squeeze themselves through really tight spaces. The ability to maneuver and fit into small areas allows them to create burrows in less familiar areas.
The holes dug by raccoons look similar to the holes created by skunks, however, they’re slightly larger. Raccoons dig their burrows when foraging for grubs and other insects, hence, they will dig in search of food. They will burrow to eat eggs, berries, corns, and grains buried underground. The hole in the lawn looks as if the sod has been rolled back.
The holes dug by raccoons are usually cone-shaped, though the area dug varies. For instance, the animal can also dig a hole under the fence that can be up to nine inches deep.
Raccoons are able to burrow through any material. Some other common areas where they burrow include trash dumping sites and compost piles, especially if they are not covered. Because raccoons are nocturnal animals and are primarily active at night, they dig and burrow at night and stay in the woody and rural areas where they cannot be noticed.
They can burrow through holes, especially if there is plenty of food in the area, though they won’t live in that place for a long time if there is not enough food. Thus, raccoons do not dig holes to live in, but they always search for food, or perhaps to gain access to a new location.
The animals are used to utilizing available burrows for their nests. They build their nests in abandoned holes and burrow spaces. The creature is intelligent as it can use abandoned fabrics, long grass, and hay to build its den. These animals will take advantage of anything available on their territory, which can be used to construct the nest.
The presence of burrows indicates the presence of raccoons since the animals indulge in these shallow excavations to hunt for small animals and insects that live in the soil. Making their homes in hollow trees and other burrows enables the animals to live longer without being noticed by humans or predators. Despite this, their presence can be noticed if new holes in the yard are spotted mainly in the morning. These holes are dug by the raccoon at night or early dawn.
In the wild, they build their nests in the forest and near the river or other water sources. They do this since they require foliage to cover their nests and hide from predators. The water source is also important as most of their prey, such as frogs, clams, and fish, is found in the water.
To prepare for the winter season, the animal will insulate their dens with leaves, twigs, and other available materials that will make their den warmer. The female raccoons mostly use crevices and caverns since such places make a good nest for giving birth and raising young. On the other hand, male raccoons are mostly found in abandoned hollows in trees, among other places that they feel it is safe for them to stay. Despite this, a raccoon will not just take any place and make it home. It will check for different places with several necessities such as water and safety. Thus, the animals will always make sure that the site is suitable before moving in.
Raccoons are just one example of the wildlife you find invading your yard. When they enter your property, the problems start as they can wreak havoc and begin to cause damage everywhere.
Think you may need raccoon removal from your yard or home? As raccoons can be tricky to get rid of, it is recommended to use a team of experienced and knowledgeable professionals.
The most effective, as well as the most humane, way of removing raccoons is to use cage traps. Our experts at Wildlife Troopers in South Florida are fully equipped and highly trained in raccoon removal. So don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free quote and video inspection!
