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TueOct 1

National Raccoon Day – October 1, 2024

National Raccoon Day takes place on October 1 every year. It is not limited to just raccoons, it extends to all misunderstood animals classified as pests, such as coyotes, spiders, and snakes. This day encourages people to look more closely at raccoons, not as a nuisance but as an important factor in the ecosystem. Many are even kept as pets, however, these are by sanctuaries and rescuers with profound knowledge about the creatures. They’re not to be kept like other domesticated animals. Read on to find out more about these interesting critters and their history.

History of National Raccoon Day

National Raccoon Day was brought to light through the efforts of a young Californian girl in 2002. She spread awareness of the significance of raccoons in the ecosystem. The following year, International Raccoon Appreciation Day became widely accepted among those who share similar dreams.

Raccoons are medium-sized, nocturnal, omnivorous, and furry animals, with dark masks around their eyes. They are highly ubiquitous animals that live in dens, on trees, and wherever food exists. Their original habitat is mixed forests like in north and central America, Europe, and Japan. The European Union prohibits transporting, importing, breeding, commercializing, or intentionally releasing them into the environment. They pose no threats to us, though.

We collectively work to clear the misconceptions surrounding these animals and look for practical steps to help save their habitat. Remember, just like all other animals, raccoons have their role in the ecosystem. Without them, the balance we have cannot remain the same.

National Raccoon Day timeline

1926
Raccoon in the White House

United States First Lady Grace Coolidge sends her raccoon pet to the White House for Thanksgiving dinner.

1963
Rascal: A Memoir of a Better Era

A book based on the writer’s real experience with a baby raccoon is released.

1977
Rascal the Racoon

A 52-episode anime series about a boy’s adventure with a raccoon is released.

2008
A Grave Raccoon Problem

“The New York Post” publishes an article on the Green-Wood Cemetery that has been haunted by raccoons since the 1990s.

National Raccoon Day FAQs

What are the raccoons’ special abilities?

They are great climbers and this gives them better access to food and shelter.

What are the raccoons’ special traits?

Raccoons are very curious and playful.

Are raccoons smart?

Indeed they are. According to a variety of studies, raccoons are very intelligent.

How to Observe National Raccoon Day

  1. Spread awareness

    Tell people about International Raccoon Appreciation Day and educate them on the importance of raccoons in our ecosystem. These cute animals are often misjudged to be terrible pests, so educating at least one person could change a lot.

  2. Visit a local conservation organization

    The main aim of a local conservation organization is to protect species and their habitats. You can spend some time at your local conservation to see for yourself how raccoons are doing.

  3. Help wildlife rescue homes

    Donate to your local wildlife rescue home or take food supplies to them. These homes are always in need of donations from community members

5 Interesting Facts About Raccoons

  1. Around for a long time

    Precisely for 40,000 years.

  2. They can adapt to new environments

    Due to their adaptability to new environments, they can be found as far north as Alaska.

  3. They have small hands

    Raccoon's hands are very small and sensitive.

  4. They are getting popular in the city

    There are 20 times more raccoons in the cities than there were 70 years ago.

  5. The raccoon capital of the world

    Toronto is the raccoon capital of the world.

Why National Raccoon Day is Important

  1. We get to understand raccoons better

    We get to know more about raccoons and, thus, treat them better. We can educate other people too.

  2. They’re cute

    No matter what, we just can’t help but adore them because they are so cute. They are very cuddly and can be very affectionate too.

  3. We can make better homes for them

    We can focus more on investing in wildlife rescue homes to ensure their safety. We love this!

National Raccoon Day dates

YearDateDay
2024October 1Tuesday
2025October 1Wednesday
2026October 1Thursday
2027October 1Friday
2028October 1Sunday
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