Raccoons embody the spirit and goals of the Center. They are a “can-do” species that learns about the world through their hands-on touching. This is exactly the educational philosophy of the Center: Hands-on learning.
The Center has treated over 1500 raccoons in its history, about 65 animals in a year. Many of these we have raised from babies when they are separated from their mothers. Separation is often because humans hurt, injure or destroy the family by doing yard work and springtime house repairs. Cars and drivers are another common separator.
Raccoons are a native wild animal. That means they are one of the original inhabitants of North America-true citizens of the Northeastern woodlands. They were here and successful during the time when the Wompanoags were the principle inhabitants of the area. By contrast today they are just as successful in our urban and suburban habitats. Can-do, where ever, whenever.
The Wompanoags, and other Algonquin speaking cultures that lived in this area knew and interacted with the raccoons. In fact the Algonquin word for raccoon is “Araquon” which means ‘little washer bear’.
In the Algonquin belief system the raccoon spirit is the soul of the Center. They would refer to it as the Center’s ‘totem’. This is the animal that best represents the spirit and characteristics of a person or of a social group. The Center’s totem is the raccoon.
We help raccoons. Raccoons help us.
Still very thankful that New England Wildlife was able to admit 5 adorable baby raccoons that were orphaned in our boat last Spring (2010) after their mom passed away (also in our boat). When it appeared like all hope was gone and that “exterminators” were the only answer, we found New England Wildlife who accepted them, got them healthy and released them back into the wild to live the life they were meant to. Forever grateful!
We need to report 4 baby raccoons taking refuge in a storm drain in front of our house. They came out at dusk last night and ventured just a few yards into our driveway/stone wall area. They appear healthy and had no fear of my husband taking pictures. In fact, they easily would have approached him and were chattering away to each other. He left them alone but checked at 11:00 last night and they were back in the storm drain. It is a tight squeeze for them to get through the vent so it seems evident the Mother is not with them. It is a busy neighborhood street with houses close together and lots of small children and we are very concerned
We want to do the right thing and hope you can help us.
Hi Paul, It sounds like the babies are doing well, which means mom is nearby, you probably just can’t see her. They will move on, there is really nothing you can do. It is not legal to move wildlife in the state of Massachusetts- even when it seems like the environment is dangerous. Unless one of them is injured or looks sick, I would just enjoy seeing them. They are amazing animals. We will be connecting a live camera within the next week or so that will show raccoon orphans being raised in our hospital. Hope that helps. Please also read “what to do if you find a wild animal” on this website for help. You can visit the Center 7 days a week from 10-2. Best, Katrina