When the weather becomes colder, raccoons go into a state called “torpor.” This mode of resting lowers the body temperature and reduces calorie and energy expenditure. This helps raccoons survive longer between feedings. They usually wake up much earlier than they would in full hibernation, but in some regions the process is much shorter. Read on to learn how raccoons spend the winter.
While most people associate raccoons with the cold months, you can still find them around your home during the winter. These creatures spend most of the day in dens and will emerge to feed and mate. They also use abandoned buildings, chimneys, and tree cavities to stay warm. If you’re concerned about raccoon activity in your neighborhood, consider removing a few of these structures.
While most raccoons use hollow trees as their primary dens, they’re also adaptable and will use other types of dens for warmth. Raccoons have been known to use caves and abandoned buildings, as well as take over burrows from other animals. Sometimes they even den together, allowing each other to share body heat and avoid being spotted by humans. In the winter, you can’t blame these animals for finding a warm place to spend the winter.
While you’re wondering how raccoons spend the winter, you might not realize that they enter a state of torpor. They sleep in a den for weeks or even months at a time, and then emerge to scavenge for food. While they’re sleeping, they’re also aware of potential predators and rinse their food thoroughly before eating. If you find raccoons in your home, you can expect them to gnaw into your chimney, eaves, and chimney, and other parts of your home.
Raccoons usually nest in sheltered areas that are close to sources of food. In the summer, raccoons feed on insects and acorns. In the fall, they’ll feed on nuts and acorns, which are high in fat. In the winter, they’ll feed on human food scraps, so make sure your home is protected. When they’re hungry, they’ll take advantage of any food they can find.
While raccoons don’t hibernate, they do seek shelter during the colder months. These animals usually make dens in attics, chimneys, and abandoned buildings. During the colder months, raccoons may also form groups and hibernate in abandoned buildings. However, if you notice raccoons in your home, don’t panic. You’ll likely be able to track them down in time to help them survive the winter.
During the winter months, raccoons use fat stores to prepare for the long, cold winters. As a result, raccoons tend to eat less in the winter months, but this doesn’t stop them from taking advantage of any food you leave out. Raccoons also enjoy pets’ food. It’s not a good idea to feed wild raccoons, but if you’ve got extra food for them, that’s a great way to get them used to your surroundings.
