Guidelines for Preventing Encounters with Raccoons and Skunks
In the picturesque district of Herford, Germany, several thousand raccoons call it home. To help residents coexist peacefully with these furry creatures, the local environmental or wildlife management authorities have published an informational flyer. Here's a summary of the measures recommended to keep raccoons away from homes.
Firstly, prompt action is necessary to secure potential entry points. Install a climbing barrier if required, seal gaps between gutters and roof tiles, and equip other openings with outward-opening flaps if there are no pests residing in your house.
Secondly, maintain your garden and fruit trees. Harvest ripe fruit and berries promptly, collect fallen fruits, and protect fruit trees with a smooth, 1-metre-high metal collar without handholds or a stem collar. Prune nearby trees or bushes if necessary, ensuring a minimum distance of 1 metre between the tree and the house.
Thirdly, manage your waste responsibly. Tightly close trash cans, avoid stacking firewood, and cover compost. These measures will help minimise the attraction of raccoons to your property.
Additionally, the initiative to combat raccoons in Herford is led by the local authorities. Contact details for raccoon-related issues can typically be found on the city of Herford's official website or by reaching out to the municipal office. The key contacts are Katja Rieck-Krieter and Jörg Bertram.
It's important to note that hunting raccoons is not permitted for laypeople. Only hunters or those with the appropriate hunting permit may do so. Raccoons, considered an invasive species, can cause problems such as breaking into homes, damaging roofs, insulation, and electrical wiring. They also threaten local wildlife by raiding bird and turtle nests.
Lastly, replace any raised flashing, loose roof tiles, and rotting siding with new materials to ensure your home remains secure.
The flyer is available in print at the information point of the district administration in Amtshausstraße, and it can also be found on the Herford district's website at [www.ourwebsite/Jagd-und-Fischerei/]. By following these guidelines, residents can help maintain a harmonious environment for both themselves and their furry neighbours.
