![]() Raccoon roundworm rarely has negative effects on raccoons but it can be very dangerous when it infects other mammals, such as humans. Raccoons are also primary carriers of raccoon roundworm. Canine distemper virus is not transmissible to humans and most domestic dogs are vaccinated against this virus. Other diseases such as canine distemper virus can cause neurological symptoms very similar to rabies. If such an event takes place, contact the Department of Public Health or your town Board of Health for guidance. Any raccoon that bites or scratches a person or pet should be treated as a potentially rabid animal. Rabies can infect all mammals including humans and some domestic pets. Rabies is a neurological disorder that can cause raccoons to be lethargic, have uncoordinated movements, or unprovoked aggressive behavior. Rabies first appeared in raccoons in Massachusetts in 1992 and they are the primary (but not the only) carriers for this disease. Raccoons can carry a number of diseases that could affect people and their pets. Raccoons can be quite vocal and make a variety of sounds from screams, hisses, growls, snarls, chatters, whimpers and even purrs. Daytime activity does not mean that the raccoon is diseased. Raccoons are mostly crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk) and nocturnal (active at night), however, they may be active during the day if food is available. Raccoons are active year round and do not hibernate, although during very cold weather, may sleep in a den for several days at a time. ![]() Additionally, raccoons are well known for raiding garbage cans, agricultural crops, chicken coops, and pet food left outdoors. Raccoons raid bird nests consuming eggs and nestlings, and feed on plant material such as berries, nuts, and seeds. As omnivorous opportunistic feeders, raccoons will eat whatever is easiest to find and readily available, including insects, crayfish, crabs, mussels, turtles and their eggs, injured waterfowl, and muskrat kits. ![]() Raccoons are highly adaptable and occupy a variety of habitats, including agricultural land, forests, wetlands, and neighborhoods. ![]()
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