Raccoon encounters on the rise: who to call and how to safely coexist

More raccoon sightings are reported in March for a reason.

According to the S. C. Department of Natural Resources, Greer sees more raccoons in March because it’s the peak of their spring breeding season, and their torpor has ended. This drives mothers to forage during the day to feed their ravenous young, though they are normally nocturnal animals. Nighttime foraging is not enough to feed its cubs or kits, said Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control.

Most citizens are concerned about rabid raccoons when they are seen in the middle of the day, rather than at dusk or early morning, as is the norm.

However, authorities cannot do anything if the animals are not trapped inside a residence, are exhibiting aggression, are likely rabid or otherwise sick, or pose an immediate danger.

Worshippers were pleasantly surprised this weekend when they spotted a lone raccoon about 1 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 1400 Old Spartanburg Rd.

It was not aggressive, trapped, or showing signs of illness, just hungry.  So he scampered playfully away, heading for the living quarters of the minister in residence, and later went up a tree.

Though cubs look cute and harmless, it is not wise to allow them to enter your home at will through trap doors, especially if you have nursing babies or very young children.

DHEC says even young raccoons can be dangerous because they are wild animals and not pets. They pose significant risks by biting, scratching, and transmitting dangerous diseases such as rabies and roundworm. They can be unpredictable and aggressive, DHEC said.

DHEC and wildlife agencies advise leaving healthy, non-threatening raccoons alone, as they adapt to urban areas. The best approach is to maintain a safe distance, not feed them, and avoid interfering, as they often move along on their own.