How do raccoon feeding habits change by season?

Spring Feeding Habits

In the spring, raccoons start to emerge from their dens and begin foraging for food. They tend to focus on insects, grubs, and small invertebrates, which are abundant after winter. Raccoons have been known to visit birdhouses and feed on eggs and chicks, especially around mid-April to early May. To trap raccoons during this time, use bait such as cat food, dog food, or even chicken eggs to attract them.

Summer Feeding Habits

Summer is a critical time for raccoons, as they need to consume high-calorie foods to sustain themselves through the hot weather. They tend to focus on fruits, such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, as well as insects, like crickets and grasshoppers. Raccoons have also been known to raid crops, such as corn and soybeans, which can be a significant concern for farmers. To capture raccoons during this time, use baits like fermented fruit or insects, and set traps in areas where food is abundant.

Winter Feeding Habits

In the winter, raccoons rely heavily on stored fat reserves and adapt to their environment to find food. They tend to focus on winter-hardy plants, like acorns, hickory nuts, and beechnuts, as well as small mammals, like mice and voles. Raccoons have also been known to visit pet food dishes and trash cans to scavenge for food. To trap raccoons during this time, use baits like nuts or seeds, and set traps in areas where food is scarce, but still available.