How do raccoons make their dens?

Raccoons don't actually make dens in the same way that, say, a beaver builds a dam. They're opportunistic and will use whatever pre-existing shelter they can find. Here's a breakdown of how raccoons create their living spaces:

They prefer to repurpose:

* Tree cavities: Hollows in trees are a favorite choice. They might find one naturally formed or enlarge an existing hole with their sharp claws.

* Abandoned burrows: They'll gladly move into dens left behind by other animals like woodchucks or foxes.

* Man-made structures: Raccoons are quite adaptable and will exploit human structures like sheds, garages, attics, and even crawl spaces under houses.

They don't just "move in," they make it their own:

* Nest building: Inside their chosen den, raccoons will line it with leaves, grass, and other soft materials to create a comfortable nest for sleeping and raising their young.

* Scent marking: To signal their territory, they will urinate and defecate in and around their den.

Important to note:

* Not all raccoons den: Some may choose to sleep in dense vegetation or other temporary shelters, especially during the warmer months.

* Den location varies: Den location and choice depend on factors like availability, time of year, and presence of food.

While raccoons are adaptable, their den-making behavior is more about finding and modifying existing spaces rather than actively building from scratch.