Aggressive Behavior: While raccoons are typically not aggressive towards humans, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered, especially mothers protecting their young.
Rabies Carriers: Raccoons are one of the primary carriers of rabies in North America. It's important to avoid approaching or handling wild raccoons to prevent potential exposure to the virus.
Urban Encounters: In urban areas, raccoons can become pests by raiding garbage cans, damaging gardens, and even entering homes in search of food. Their adaptability to human environments can lead to frequent encounters.
Strong Bite: Raccoons have powerful jaws and sharp teeth. If provoked, they can deliver a painful bite that may transmit diseases or infections.
Disease Vectors: Besides rabies, raccoons can carry other diseases such as leptospirosis, roundworm, and canine distemper, which can pose risks to pets and humans.
Damage to Property: Their strong claws and dexterous paws enable raccoons to cause damage to roofs, attic insulation, and electrical wiring when they seek shelter in human structures.