Raccoons Lying On A Roof in Markham

Raccoons Basking in the Sun

Our office received a call regarding a homeowner hearing noise inside her attic. Once Gates Wildlife Technician Nick arrived on site, he immediately spotted these two raccoons lying at the peak of the roof in the sun. When a raccoon is found lying on the roof at this time of year it usually means they do not have an access into the attic. If they did they would much prefer to be sleeping inside where it would be warmer for them.

It is likely that these two raccoons are brothers as it is a little early for mating. Immature brothers tend to stick together until they are two years of age. They could possibly be on the move, trying to find a den site for the winter, or maybe they had ventured too far from their den the night before, leaving them with no choice but to sleep on this homeowners roof for the day.

As you can see these two are quite large in size, which is typical for this time of year. Raccoons have already packed on their winter weight and have grown a much needed thick winter coat. Their ability to store body fat allows them to live off of their fat reserves and stay in their den longer when food is scarce. Typically a raccoon will lose up to half their body weight during the winter months.

By Brad Gates, B.Sc.

Brad Gates is the owner and president of AAA Gates Wildlife Control. He has over 35 years experience in the humane wildlife removal and prevention industry.