![]() A few attempts at bringing raccoons in from other states to bolster populations were conducted into the 1970s, despite growing raccoon populations. Raccoon populations were low in the early 1900s, but began to rebound in the mid-1900s. Sometimes raccoons will appear to be “washing” food when really they are hunting for crayfish or mussels along the shores of creeks and ponds by feel. If water is not nearby, the raccoon will forego this ritual. Wetting its paws enhances the raccoon’s touch. If water is nearby, the raccoon will appear to “wash” its food however, the animal is actually kneading and tearing at the food, feeling for matter that shouldn’t be eaten. Raccoons have very sensitive paws, making their sense of touch one of their most important for finding food. Raccoons are opportunists, eating both plants and animals. By mid-June, most young raccoons accompany their mother on food searches and begin to learn survival skills. Litters are usually born in April or May and range in size from one to nine, although the average is four. If tree dens are not readily available, a female may use abandoned barn lofts, rock outcroppings, ground burrows or even attics and chimneys as dens. The male assumes no part in raising young. Most mating occurs in January or February. The heavily forested south-central hills and northwestern prairie regions are less attractive to raccoons, but they are still common in these areas. The farmland of central Indiana is also home to many raccoons. Northeastern Indiana, with its glacial lakes, is where the raccoon population is the greatest. They are most numerous where a mix of woodlands, cropland and shallow water are found. Sometimes to beat other animals to good food sources (like chips around a park picnic table), raccoons will be active during daylight. Contrary to common belief, a raccoon active during the day is not necessarily sick.
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