Mike Clinton
Who to Call When a Raccoon is Stuck in a Tree?
Encountering a raccoon stuck in a tree can be a worrying and stressful situation for anyone. It is essential to identify the appropriate authorities to call to ensure the raccoon’s safety and prevent any harm to people or property. In this article, we will discuss the steps to take and who to call when a raccoon is stuck in a tree.
First Step: Assess the Situation
Before taking any action, it is crucial to assess the situation carefully. Check the raccoon’s location, height, and surroundings. Determine if the raccoon is injured, distressed, or showing any signs of aggression. It is also essential to ensure that no other animals, such as predators or pets, are nearby.
Check for Signs of Injury
If you notice any signs of injury, such as blood, limping, or difficulty breathing, call emergency services immediately. If the raccoon appears to be healthy, check for any visible signs of dehydration or exhaustion, such as panting or drooling.
Determine the Raccoon’s Age
If the raccoon is a baby, it is essential to determine its age before taking action. If it is less than eight weeks old, it is still dependent on its mother and needs to be reunited with her as soon as possible. If it is older, it may have wandered away from its family and will require assistance to return to its natural habitat.
Contact a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
It is best to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator rather than attempting to rescue the raccoon yourself. These professionals are trained to handle wild animals and have the necessary equipment and resources to ensure the animal’s safety and well-being.
What Information You Should Provide
When calling a wildlife rehabilitator, provide as much information as possible about the raccoon’s location, behavior, and any signs of injury or distress. This information will help the rehabilitator determine the best course of action and bring the right equipment.
Wildlife Rehabilitators vs. Animal Control
It is essential to note that wildlife rehabilitators and animal control are not the same. Animal control is responsible for dealing with domestic animals and may not have the necessary training or equipment to handle wild animals. Wildlife rehabilitators specialize in rescuing and rehabilitating wild animals and are better equipped to handle raccoons stuck in trees.
Steps to Take While Waiting for Help
While waiting for the wildlife rehabilitator to arrive, it is crucial to keep a safe distance from the raccoon and prevent any pets or people from approaching it. If possible, keep an eye on the raccoon’s behavior and location until help arrives.
Preventing Future Raccoon Tree Trappings
To prevent future raccoon tree trappings, make sure that trees near your property are appropriately trimmed and do not have any branches that overhang your roof. Ensure that garbage cans are sealed and stored in a secure location, as raccoons are attracted to food and may climb trees to find it.
Conclusion: Help is Available
In conclusion, encountering a raccoon stuck in a tree can be a stressful situation, but help is available. Remember to assess the situation carefully, check for signs of injury, and contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. By taking these steps, you can ensure the raccoon’s safety and prevent any harm to people or property.