Raccoons

Habitat and Protection

Raccoons are naturally found in South Dakota. They live in all kinds of environments, but prefer to live near water and wooded areas. In Sioux Falls, they are commonly found in backyards near cattail drainages, wooded draws, and the Big Sioux River. They will also live underneath decks, in attics or chimneys, or under trailer houses. Raccoons eat both plants and animals, but in the city they will also feed on garbage, cat food, and bird food. Baby raccoons are primarily born in April or May, and they stay with their mother for the first year of their life. Raccoons are active all year long. Raccoons are classified as furbearers in South Dakota, but by law they cannot be trapped in Sioux Falls except by Animal Control personnel.

Danger

Raccoons can carry a disease called rabies, which if not treated right away can lead to death. They also commonly carry distemper and roundworms, which can be passed on to you and your pet. People or pets that are bitten by a raccoon should go to the doctor or veterinarian right away to be treated. If a bite occurs in Sioux Falls, call Animal Control at 605-367-7000. We will respond to the scene and try to capture the raccoon for rabies testing.

Damage and Ways to Discourage Raccoons

Raccoons can cause damage to buildings, gardens, turf and koi ponds. Unfortunately, if you live near a grassy waterway or wooded ravine, you will likely have a re-occurring raccoon issue. Some techniques for dealing with raccoons in your yard are:

• Don't feed them. Remove all food sources, such as cat food, garbage, or bird food.
• Exclude them. Prevent them from living near your home (seal up small holes under decks, near the roof/chimney or under trailer homes). Remove brush piles or lumber piles.
• Dogs. Dogs can alert you to the presence of raccoons and sometimes scare away a raccoon, but they can also be attacked by raccoons. Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies, whether they usually go outside or not. Any cat or dog living in Sioux Falls that is over 6 months of age is required by law to be vaccinated for rabies.
• Trapping. You may use a live trap to catch a raccoon if there is one in your yard. Foot hold traps or kill traps are not allowed by law. If you catch a raccoon in a live trap in your backyard, call Animal Control at 605-367-7000 for assistance. Animal Control also has traps which you can borrow.