Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Northern Raccoon

They grow up so fast! These raccoon kits were all orphaned for one reason or another. Before they were admitted into care we attempted reuniting them with their mother at least once. Mom is always the best option to raise her baby, but reuniting for these little ones was unsuccessful.

Photos courtesy of Blue Ridge Wildlife Center

These youngsters will soon need to go outside so that they can learn to climb, acclimate to the outdoors, and mature into raccoons that will be fully independent of people. Most raccoons stay with us for an average of 5 months – that’s a long time compared to many of the other species that are raised at the Center.

Raccoons in Virginia have VERY specific rehabilitation requirements. Due to a roundworm that raccoons can host (which can be fatal in other species, including humans), our permitting agency only allows raccoons to be raised in enclosures that aren’t made of wood or dirt, and specific personal protective equipment must be worn when working with them.

Raccoons are also considered high-risk rabies vectors, creating even more regulations regarding their care and limiting those who can work with them.

This is precisely why raising baby wildlife, especially raccoons, is illegal without a permit. It is a major public health risk that often ends in death for the wild babies and could lead to disease or even death in the humans providing care. Proper training, formulas, and equipment are essential to make sure those babies grow up healthy, independent, and most importantly, WILD. To keep yourself safe and to do what’s best for the wild animal – call a professional when you find a baby you believe needs assistance before you intervene.

This photo is from only five weeks ago – see how fast they grow!

To help us care for more raccoons next year, please donate to our matching gift fundraiser! Every donation up to $12,000 will be matched thanks to our generous donors, Patty and Spencer Cake, David and Marti Bryant, and an anonymous contributor!

Facebook pays all the processing fees for you, so 100% of your donation goes directly to this project!

If you would prefer to donate through the mail please send a check to Blue Ridge Wildlife Center (106 Island Farm Lane, Boyce, VA 22620) and note Raccoon Caging. You may also call us at 540-837-9000 to make a donation over the phone. Thank you!