Fall Raccoon Cohort Releases

Raccoons are highly adaptable generalists, able to thrive in a wide range of habitats and make use of diverse food sources. This ecological versatility allows them to thrive in densely populated cities and suburbs. While this adaptability has helped raccoons maintain stable populations, it also brings them into closer contact with people, increasing their exposure to potential dangers such as habitat loss, vehicle collisions, human disturbance, encounters with domestic animals like dogs, and more.

This year, the PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center cared for dozens of orphaned raccoons – 43 to be exact! Many of these young raccoons arrived at PAWS after losing their mothers to road collisions, while others were rescued from encounters with off-leash dogs or removed by humans who thought they had been abandoned or wanted them away from their space. While in care at PAWS, these young raccoons received the support they needed to grow and thrive until they were ready to survive on their own. The raccoons are raised in cohorts of approximately ten individuals to account for differences in development and better manage any health concerns that may arise.

After many months of care, our experienced wildlife rehabilitation staff and biologist carefully evaluated each individual’s readiness for life in the wild. One by one, we determined that they were ready to return to their natural habitat. This autumn, the PAWS team safely released these young raccoons back into the wild, where they can now live as wild animals and thrive.

If you’ve found an injured or orphaned wild animal, please visit PAWS’ self-help form or give the PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center a call at (425) 412-4040. Our admissions specialists are always prepared to assist with any questions or concerns about wildlife!

For more information on safe and responsible raccoon exclusion methods, please visit Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.

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