Raccoons

There have been an increasing number of reports of raccoons in Rodgau and the Offenbach district recently.

Damage caused by raccoons

Raccoons are nocturnal wild animals and search for food in the vicinity of houses and gardens. This can result in the following types of damage, amongst others:

  • Rubbish bins are being emptied
  • Lawns are being dug up in the search for food
  • Food provided for pets is eaten
  • Attics or garden sheds are chosen as places to live

Invasive species

A close-up of a raccoon with distinctive facial markings and bushy fur


Raccoons are considered an invasive species and are spreading further and further. It is estimated that up to two million raccoons live in Germany. They have no natural predators and are unlikely to disappear from their native habitats.

As omnivores, raccoons feed on, amongst other things:

  • Amphibians
  • Reptiles
  • Insects
  • Worms and snails
  • Fruit

What’s more, they plunder birds’ nests and don’t even spare bats or young birds.

Preventative measures outdoors

In areas where raccoons have already been spotted, it is advisable to take preventative measures against these nocturnal animals. If raccoons can find food easily, they are quickly attracted to the area and settle in.

Avoid offering food

It is therefore important to ensure that there is no food available around the house. Please therefore bear in mind the following points:

  • Secure rubbish bins to prevent them from being opened (e.g. with a heavy stone or special clamps)
  • Do not leave full yellow bags lying around
  • Windfall should be cleared away regularly
  • Do not put food waste on the compost heap
  • Do not leave pet food outside

Protecting fruit trees

Fruit trees are also among the raccoons’ favourite feeding spots. If an infestation is detected, the trunk can be protected with metal rings. This prevents the raccoon from climbing the tree.

Tips for protecting your home

To prevent young raccoons from accidentally finding their way into a house, branches on trees and bushes should be pruned back to ensure there is sufficient space between them and the house. This will stop raccoons from climbing over in this way.

Further measures:

  • Secure downpipes with smooth collars
  • Lock garden sheds and garages
  • Secure cat flaps to prevent unauthorised access (e.g. with microchip access)
  • Check and prune branches and shrubs near the house regularly

Advice on dealing with raccoons

Raccoons are wild animals. It is advisable to keep your distance, as they are often infested with fleas, lice and ticks, can transmit diseases and may also bite.

Dung should only be handled whilst wearing gloves. It may contain the eggs of the raccoon roundworm, which is also dangerous to humans.

Responsibility and legal notices

The owners of the affected properties are generally responsible for deterring or removing raccoons. As raccoons are subject to hunting legislation, they may only be trapped or killed by authorised persons.

These are usually the local hunting leaseholders or pest control operators.