Scarborough, a bustling district in Toronto, is no stranger to the clever and resourceful raccoons that call it home. With its growing urban sprawl, Scarborough has become a hotspot for these furry creatures, contributing to Toronto’s reputation as the “Raccoon Capital of the World.” But what’s truly fascinating is how raccoons manage to thrive in Scarborough’s harsh winters.
These nocturnal urban explorers are experts in adapting to their environment, leveraging both natural and man-made resources to survive freezing temperatures and limited food supplies. Let’s break down what makes these critters so resilient during the coldest months of the year.
Why Is the Raccoon Population Growing in Scarborough?
Before diving into their winter survival tactics, it’s worth noting why Scarborough’s raccoon population is booming in the first place:
- Urbanization and Habitat Loss
As Scarborough expands, natural habitats shrink. Raccoons have adapted by moving into urban spaces, finding shelter in attics, chimneys, and under decks. - Abundant Food Sources
The easy access to overflowing garbage bins, compost piles, and even bird feeders has provided raccoons with a steady food supply, encouraging population growth. - High Reproductive Rates
Raccoons mate in late winter, and females give birth to litters of 3–5 kits in the spring. With ideal conditions and plentiful resources, their numbers continue to rise. - Scarborough’s Ecosystem
Parks, wooded areas, and residential neighborhoods create a perfect balance of natural and urban resources, making it easier for raccoons to thrive.
How Do Raccoons Survive Scarborough’s Winters?
Winter in Ontario is no joke, with temperatures dipping well below freezing. Here’s how raccoons beat the cold and survive:
1. Finding Warm Shelter
Raccoons are masters at seeking out cozy dens to escape the chill. In Scarborough, they often shelter in:
- Natural Dens: Hollow trees, rock crevices, or abandoned burrows in parks.
- Urban Hiding Spots: Attics, garages, sheds, and chimneys in residential areas.
- Under Decks or Porches: These spaces offer both insulation and safety.
To make their dens warmer, raccoons line them with leaves, grass, or other insulating materials.
2. Building Fat Reserves
As fall approaches, raccoons enter a feeding frenzy, eating anything they can find to pack on fat for the winter.
- Urban Diet: Leftovers in garbage bins, compost, or pet food left outside.
- Natural Foods: Nuts, seeds, berries, and other vegetation.
These fat reserves serve as both insulation and a backup energy source during long, cold stretches.
3. Torpor: Nature’s Energy-Saving Mode
Unlike true hibernators, raccoons enter a state of torpor during winter.
- What Is Torpor? A light, energy-saving sleep where their metabolism slows down.
- Cold Weather Rest: They stay in their dens during extreme cold.
- Activity on Warmer Days: Raccoons emerge during milder weather to forage for food.
4. Thick, Insulating Fur
Raccoons’ dense, water-resistant fur keeps them warm even in subzero temperatures.
- Tail as a Blanket: Their bushy tails double as a built-in blanket, wrapping around their bodies to retain heat.
5. Exploiting Urban Resources
Scarborough’s urban environment offers raccoons plenty of survival advantages:
- Food Availability: Overflowing garbage bins, park litter, and even bird feeders provide consistent meals.
- Shelter in Human Structures: Warm attics and sheds protect raccoons from the elements.
6. Occasional Group Living
While raccoons are generally solitary, they sometimes share dens in extreme cold to conserve body heat. This rare social behavior helps them survive harsh conditions.
The Challenges Raccoons Face in Winter
Despite their adaptability, winter poses risks for raccoons:
- Extended Cold Snaps: If food is scarce or shelter isn’t insulated enough, survival becomes difficult.
- Human Encounters: Urban living increases the chances of raccoons being hit by vehicles, poisoned by garbage, or evicted from their dens.
- Health Risks: Diseases like rabies and roundworm can spread among raccoons, potentially endangering both animals and humans.
What Can Scarborough Residents Do?
Raccoons may be fascinating, but they can also cause property damage and pose health risks especially if there are babies. Here’s how residents can coexist with these urban wildlife neighbors:
- Secure Garbage Bins
Use animal-proof bins with tightly sealed lids to prevent raccoons from scavenging. - Remove Outdoor Food Sources
Avoid leaving pet food, birdseed, or compost in easily accessible areas. - Seal Entry Points
Inspect attics, chimneys, and decks for potential access points and secure them with mesh or other barriers. - Call a Professional
For persistent raccoon issues, contact a wildlife control service like SOS Wildlife Control. They provide humane removal and prevention solutions to keep your home safe.
Raccoons: Survivors of Scarborough
Raccoons in Scarborough have proven themselves to be among the most adaptable mammals, thriving in both natural and urban settings. By finding shelter, building fat reserves, and leveraging their resourceful nature, they not only survive but thrive during the coldest months of the year.
For residents, understanding their behavior and taking proactive measures can make a big difference in maintaining a peaceful coexistence with these clever creatures. Whether it’s securing your home or enlisting professional help for Scarborough raccoon removal, staying one step ahead of raccoons is key to enjoying a wildlife-free winter.