In their search for food and shelter, raccoons are increasingly moving close to towns and cities. In Offenbach, too, there have recently been an increasing number of sightings of the small bears. There is no official responsibility for eliminating problems caused by a raccoon population in residential areas and allotment gardens. Nevertheless, the Offenbach Public Order Office is available to assist citizens by providing advice over the phone and, if necessary, on site.
Raccoons seek shelter under roofs, in garages or sheds. It is advisable to secure roof structures, says Pietro Mereu, head of department at the public order office and advisor for citizen inquiries about raccoons: "Remove overhanging branches, wall growth or trellises from facades to prevent raccoons from gaining access to the roof. Climbing barriers on downpipes can also be very helpful." In addition, the omnivores should not find any food on offer. "Secure access to garbage cans and remove fallen fruit from the garden as soon as possible. Bird food is also a popular source of food," adds Mereu. If a raccoon has already taken up residence on your property, the best way to drive it away is to use high-frequency speakers, blinders with strong light sources, fanfare horns and liquid deterrents. Good communication with neighbors to coordinate measures is also recommended.
Raccoons are subject to hunting law and may be hunted and killed outside residential areas by authorized persons who hold a hunting or trapping license. Hunters may hunt adult animals from August 1 to February 28. This period does not apply to young animals. They may be hunted all year round.
Pietro Mereu is the contact person at the public order office for questions about raccoons. He can be contacted on 069 / 8065 2502.
Background:
Raccoons are originally native to North America. The small bears were first released in Hesse in 1934 with the aim of reintroducing them. The omnivore poses a threat to biodiversity and is therefore one of the invasive animal species designated by the EU.