Some homeowners are tipped off to a raccoon on site by growing piles of scat. Raccoons utilize dedicated areas to void their excrement. Understandably, these homeowners want the feces removed. Here are the basics on raccoon feces and the “communal latrine”.
How to identify raccoon feces? Fresh raccoon scat will usually appear dark in color and hold a tubular shape. Bits and pieces of the raccoons diet may be apparent, showing up as seeds, shells & fur. Feces that have been exposed to the elements and subjected to time will become dry and dull in color. Raccoons will target specific areas to defecate.
Raccoons typically leave their scat on raised surfaces. Decks, patios and downed trees are familiar favorites. Other common areas include attics, roofs, shallow steps in pools, hay mounds or large rocks. Raccoons will routinely deposit their scat in the same area creating a communal pile of feces. Raccoon latrines are health concerns.
Raccoons are the primary host of roundworms (Baylisascaris procyonis). While the worms live in the raccoons intestines the roundworm eggs are passed in their stools. Raccoon feces can contain over a million roundworm eggs. If the eggs make their way into a human or pet the larvae can hatch from the egg and grow in the new host.
At no time should vacuums or leaf blowers be used to remove raccoon feces. Vacuums and blowers can airborne the roundworm eggs. Raccoon feces should be removed by a professional wildlife control operator (WCO). Trained WCO’s will use specific PPE and cleaning techniques to safely remove and dispose of the latrine.
Raccoons defecate in dedicated areas. Over time latrine piles grow in size. Raccoons are the primary carrier of roundworms. Roundworm eggs are passed through the hosts stools. Vacuums and blowers should never be used in latrine removal.
For more information contact the wildlife professionals at Critter Evictors!