Wild mammal – Moderate risk
Raccoon
The raccoon (Procyon lotor) is one of the most common wild animals found in urban areas in Quebec. Highly adaptable, it makes itself at home in attics, under terraces and in chimneys. Although not normally aggressive, it can bite if cornered and is a potential vector of rabies and other diseases.
45-65 cm – Grey with black mask
§1Distinctive features
How to identify it
A medium-sized mammal (45-65 cm) with a black face mask, gray-brown fur and ringed tail. Its front legs resemble small, dexterous hands. Weighs 3 to 10 kg.
§2Habitat
Where to find it
It nests in attics, chimneys, spaces under terraces, hollow trees and abandoned buildings. In the city, it exploits garbage cans and compost bins.
§3Reproduction
Lifecycle
Without intervention, an infestation can double in size in just a few weeks.
§4What to look out for
Signs of infestation
- Treading and scratching noises in the attic at night
- Damage to shingles and soffits for attic access
- Turning garbage cans over at night
- Large cat-like droppings near access points
- Characteristic prints in the shape of small hands
§5Why act fast
Risks
- Potential rabies vector (rare but possible)
- Transmission of the Baylisascaris procyonis parasite (roundworm)
- Extensive attic damage (insulation, cables)
- Contamination by excrement
§6Prevention
How to avoid it
- Secure garbage cans with lockable lids
- Seal off potential access to attics and soffits
- Avoid leaving pet food outdoors
- Installing chimney grates
- Eliminate sources of stagnant water
§7Pro method
How MW works
Inspection
Home location and assessment.
Preparation
Customized plan – pre-intervention measurements.
Treatment
Locate main and satellite nests, treat with non-repellent baits.
Follow-up
Inspection visit – written guarantee.
§8We answer you
Frequently asked questions
Can a raccoon transmit rabies?
Yes, it’s a potential vector. Never touch a raccoon that seems disoriented or active in broad daylight.
How do you remove it from an attic?
The first step is to identify all access points, then progressively exclude them (one-way doors) before sealing. Calling a professional is recommended.
Are raccoons protected?
They are not a protected species in Quebec, but their capture and movement are regulated. Contact a certified professional.
Raccoons look for an attic or a roof space to give birth in spring, and a female with young cannot be removed just any way. Our wild animal capture team works by on-site exclusion followed by sealing the entry points: inside the enhanced raccoon rabies surveillance zone, moving the animal away from where it was caught is prohibited. We cover Sherbrooke, Granby, Cowansville and Magog.
Sources used for this fact sheet: Québec.ca, raccoon wildlife fact sheet · Québec.ca, raccoon rabies surveillance · Hinterland Who's Who, the raccoon · Québec.ca, leptospirosis.
React quickly, sleep well.
The longer the infestation lasts, the more expensive it becomes.
