Raccoons are nocturnal mammals found all across Long Island. They are opportunistic scavengers, this means they will eat almost anything they come across including fruits, plants, and animal matter. They have very nimble paws that they use to manipulate food items, climb trees, and even open objects like trash cans to look for food.
Raccoons are known for their black mask markings on their face. These dark markings actually help raccoons recognize each other and differentiate between individuals! These black markings also absorb light to reduce glare. Raccoons are nocturnal but if you see one during the day time it doesn't necessarily mean it's sick! Many times raccoons will be seen during the day scavenging for food to feed their babies.
Raccoons are an important part of our ecosystem, here are some ways to easily coexist with them.
Wildlife Center of Long Island is not licensed to care for raccoons. You can contact our hospital about a sick or injured raccoon and we will provide you with the appropriate resources.
We rely on donations from the community to provide the best possible rescue, care and rehabilitation to Long Island’s Wildlife.
Long Island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and marine life. Here are some examples of the wildlife you might find on Long Island.
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Wildlife Center of Long Island (Formerly known as Volunteers for Wildlife) is a tax exempt 501(c)3 not-for-profit charitable organization. Copies of our annual audited financial statements as well as annual IRS 990 and NY State CHAR500 reports can be accessed on the NYS Attorney General’s Charity website.
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