Raccoons in Vermont: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For

Raccoons are found throughout Vermont, but you'll have the best luck near water. Focus on the edges of streams, rivers, and ponds in deciduous or mixed forests. Agricultural areas and suburban neighborhoods are also prime spots, especially where fruit trees or gardens are present.

Raccoons are primarily nocturnal, so dawn and dusk are your best viewing windows. In summer, they may emerge earlier in the evening. During winter, they become less active but don't truly hibernate. A warm spell can bring them out, especially if food is available.

Look for hand-like tracks with five long toes and a distinct palm pad. Tracks often appear in mud or soft soil near water. Also watch for scat that is dark and tubular, often containing berry seeds or insect parts. Raccoon latrines are often at the base of trees or on flat rocks.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores. Their diet includes berries, acorns, insects, frogs, crayfish, and even small rodents. In spring and summer, they raid bird nests for eggs. Near homes, they'll go after pet food, compost, and trash.

Raccoons don't truly hibernate but enter long periods of inactivity in dens during cold snaps. They may sleep for several days or weeks, then emerge during mild weather. Female raccoons tend to be less active in late winter if they are nursing young.