The Reproductive Cycle or Urban Racoons
Raccoons are omnivorous mammals characterized by gray fur, black patches around the eyes and a black ringed tail. They measure three feet long and about 12 inches high.
Raccoons are found in most parts of North America, and have become a major problem in the region having adapted very well to the urban conditions. Their numbers have greatly increased and are now common in the major cities and towns. If you too are experiencing raccoon problems, than this article is helpful in better understanding how to deal with raccoons before you call us for Oakville raccoon removal.
They feed on everything ranging from vegetables to flesh: crayfish, cherries, mice, soy beans, snakes, corn, worms, grasshoppers, beetles among other things.
Although they can live on all habitats except the desert types and the alpine, they are mostly common in wetland areas and the riparian habitat.
Breeding.
Raccoons breed from January through March. The females ones ovulate instinctively with the male sticking around for a week before searching for another mate.
Birth
Most of their young ones are born in March through May. Their gestation period lasts about 54-63 days after which they give birth to four to six offspring.
The young ones come out without teeth and with closed eyes and nurse up to a period of four months.
Like all mammals, raccoons take care of their young ones until the next breeding season.
Weaning.
Weaning of the young raccoons from their milk occurs after the second month( between 60-90 days). Soon after weaning (about 130 days), they become start to become semi-independent. They are removed from the raccoon den by the older ones and taught how to hunt food.
Habitat.
After the first year, the raccoons move in search of new habitats, that is their new territories in the urban areas, woodland areas and near water sources.
While the females reach sexual maturity after the first year and can start breeding, the males do so immediately after the second year.
Adult life.
Raccoons can live up to about 20 years in the wild, but very few manage to go past the second year. This is due to attack by diseases,conflicts with cars and predators like owls, bobcats, dogs and people.
Call us for Pest Control Oakville services: 647-931-5319