What if I see a raccoon/opossum/skunk out during the day?
Although nocturnal animals are most active throughout the night, it is not an indication that something is necessarily wrong if seen out during the day. Nocturnal animals often DO come out during the day.
Pet food, bird seed, and garbage can be powerful attractants. Weather changes also affect wildlife.
A mother skunk or raccoon will often venture out in the daytime to take a well deserved break from her babies.
At certain times of the year, particularly in the Fall, animals must be efficient in preparing for the winter and maximize their foraging time to find food, therefore starting out during daylight is not uncommon. Another possibility to consider is if an animal has been displaced from its home due to construction, then it is forced to move on sometimes during the day in search of a new shelter. The winter and early spring months signifies mating season for most species, meaning a peak in activity throughout the day for that time frame. Often, nocturnal animals seen in the early morning/afternoon hours are just taking their time getting home.
If a nocturnal animal is out during the day and is sick you will know it. The symptoms when an animal is sick or injured can vary, but regardless it’s fairly obvious that something is wrong. If you are concerned, please call us or Animal Control immediately about ill animals. Don’t attempt to take action yourself.