For the first time in eighteen years of rehabbing wildlife, I am wintering seven little raccoons. These babies arrived at Evelyn’s Wildlife Refuge (EWR) in September. All were just over a month old, coming from several different mothers. But that hasn’t bothered them. They get along well and snuggle in together.
Adult raccoons breed between January and June, depending on environment and environmental conditions. Litters are anywhere from one to seven; four is the usual size. The gestation period is 63 days and most babies are born in April and May. If the female does not become pregnant during the first estrus, at ten months old, she can come into estrus again four months later. This is why there are now "late babies" at the refuge.
We are wintering the baby raccoons (called cubs or kits) because they don’t fare well in the winter months. They haven’t had time to build up fat reserves needed to see them through the winter. Raccoons don’t hibernate; they just rest inside where it’s warm.
They all have had their rabies and distemper/parvo shots and now just need to mature. In the wild, cubs stay with their mother for up to almost a year, at which time the mother is ready to breed again.
Since their arrival, they have moved from cage inside to one of our outside cages, the one we call the "Hilton," due to the design and area. The Hilton is actually three cages built into one. It is ‘L’ shaped and can be either one large cage, or three separate cages. Interconnecting doors can separates different areas, each with it’s own latrine.
Usually these animals don’t like to be caged, but instinct takes over and they know food is scarce. They are hunkering down for the cold months ahead.
As their maid, I have perks caring for these creatures. Each day when I go in to clean their living area, I get little paws checking out my ears and nose, my hair band gets pulled off (I go through a few of these), and I get a general grooming. When on the rare occasion I go to a meeting or some other event, the raccoons know this. They are not as comfortable with me because I am wearing make-up and perfume. I always have to be natural when I’m with the babies. It’s a small price to pay for getting close to these little guys.
Although they are used to me, because I am the "Mom" -- handling, feeding, and medicating them -- they are now reaching the point that they are becoming fearful of man-made noises and becoming wary of people, even our volunteers. This is healthy sign, necessary for their eventual return to the wild.
As I look out my window, I see dark ringed tails hanging out of denning boxes and all seems right with the world.
Evelyn
Raccoon Fun Facts
The name raccoon is derived from the Algonquin Indians and translates to "he scratches with his hands." Raccoons are among the most intelligent of wild animals. They are as intelligent as cats or dogs. Raccoons can live up to 16 years in the wild but most die before reaching five years. The raccoons usually walks, but it can run at speeds of up to 15 miles an hour.Junior Membership at the Refuge
Evelyn’s Wildlife Refuge is in the process of forming a Junior Membership Group. Quite a few youngsters have expressed an interest in helping us. Because of their enthusiasm, we hate to say no. But the refuge cannot risk having youngsters around wildlife, or the risks involved in cleaning cages with wildlife. We are looking for ways these young people (ages 10-17) can have fun, and at the same time, raise awareness and funds for the refuge. We will keep you all posted.