Racoons, despite rooting around in trash, can be fairly hygienic species, as far as urban animals go. They defecate in communal sites, much like humans. Just like we try to limit our waste activities to the bathroom, raccoons tend to pick out a spot to use as the bathroom together. These spots are referred to as Raccoon Latrines. Unfortunately, these latrines can pose a threat to humans who may come in contact with them.
Common Sites Used as Raccoon Latrines
Raccoons will often use certain spots as their latrines. Common sites include bases of trees, hidden spots under decks/patios, sheds, koi ponds, and pools. They may also choose a corner of an attic or crawlspace to use as their latrine. Raccoons will frequently use a few different sites as their latrines. Most researchers posit that they do this to limit the scent to specific areas of their domain. Raccoon feces are dark brown, tubular, and have a pungent odor.
Why Are Latrines Dangerous?
Raccoon Latrines are often dangerous because of bacteria and parasites they may leave behind. Baylisascaris procyonis, a dangerous roundworm that is commonly carried by raccoons, is one of the most dangerous among these. The roundworm can infect people when the eggs are ingested. The eggs can survive outside of the raccoon for over a month. Exposure to raccoon fecal material can put you at risk of becoming infected. Young children or developmentally disabled persons are at a higher risk of infection, as they are more likely to put contaminated fingers, soil, or other objects into their mouths. Stirring up dust and debris near the latrine can also increase risk of infection.
After exposure, symptoms usually become present after 1-4 weeks. Signs and symptoms can include: nausea, tiredness, liver enlargement, loss of coordination, lack of attention to people and surroundings, loss of muscle control, blindness, and coma. It can potentially become fatal.
Hire A Professional For Clean-up
You should not attempt to clean up a Raccoon Latrine yourself. Hire a professional Wildlife Removal service to remove a pest animal and properly clean up after it. Proper cleanup and disinfecting of latrine space is vital to reducing the risk of infection or disease.. Prompt removal and destruction of the feces will reduce risk of exposure and infection for you and your family.