Twice the Raccoon Mischief!
This week, we’re celebrating two young raccoons who arrived at Tucson Wildlife Center (TWC) separately but completed the final stages of rehabilitation together.
The first, a young female, was found lying in a yard in Rio Rico. She was a baby and thin – the mother was likely trapped and couldn’t return for her. Although she was alert and active, she was too young to survive on her own. The finder brought her into TWC.
The second raccoon, a young male, arrived after being found alone with no mother or siblings nearby or ever being seen. He was dehydrated and thin also. Our medical team provided fluids and supportive care.
As they grew stronger, bonded together and became more independent, the raccoons progressed from indoor care to an outdoor enclosure. This important step gave them space to climb, explore, forage, and practice the behaviors they will need to thrive in the wild, all while minimizing their contact with people.
Raccoons are omnivores and eat a varied diet that may include fruits, seeds, insects, reptiles, eggs, and small animals. They are excellent climbers and can rotate their hind feet, helping them climb down trees headfirst. Their highly sensitive paws help them identify and handle food, climb, and investigate their surroundings. Their distinctive black facial markings may help reduce glare and improve contrast; this is a useful adaptation for animals most active at night.
After spending several months in care, the two raccoons had grown to be healthy and ready for release. Before their release, both received several preventive treatments, including rabies vaccinations. Vaccinating raccoons against rabies before release helps protect the animals, other wildlife, and the wider community.
Last week, the pair returned to the wild together!
These two youngsters received the time, treatment, and protected space they needed to grow up. Thank you for helping us give orphaned wildlife a second chance to return to the wild. We’ll be cheering on these two clever climbers as they begin their next adventure!
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