Raccoons in Cape Breton more persistent due to breeding season

Raccoons in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality are increasingly becoming a problem for homeowners, say city officials.

Paul Burt, the bylaws manager for the municipality, says raccoons are growing in numbers and they're also persistent.

"I've seen a few myself. I deal with them almost on nightly basis in my garbage can," Burt said. "We've gotten a little smarter with what we put out and how we store it." 

Raccoons are such a problem that the municipality has contacted the Department of Natural Resources for assistance.

Terry Power, a biologist, says it's the season for raccoon babies and food demands are higher. It's important not to confront them, he says.

"In these types of situations, you certainly don't want to corner the animal if you see it in your door, yard. Just give it some room and it will move out on its own," Power said.

"Then, use whatever means you have to make some more noise, and sort of ensure the animal knows what you are and give it some space to get out of there. They're not likely to be aggressive if they have room to manoeuvre and to leave on their own."

Anita Poirier lives in Ashby and says her experiences have not been with aggressive raccoons. 

"When I went to open the door, I had to laugh because he went and hid behind the little pole and he's playing peek-a-boo with me," she said. "I know that they're a menace, but they're kind of cute in their own way." 

Power says homeowners can discourage raccoons by not leaving food sources like garbage bins or pet food near their steps. 

If they're becoming a problem, Power encourages homeowners to call the Department of Natural Resources.