Raccoons:
* Adaptability: Raccoons are highly adaptable creatures with a diverse diet and a knack for problem-solving. They can exploit various food sources, including human garbage and leftovers.
* Urbanization: As human populations grow, urban areas expand, creating new habitats and food sources for raccoons.
* Lack of natural predators: In urban areas, raccoons have fewer natural predators like coyotes and owls, which can help them thrive.
* Human assistance: While accidental, people often unwittingly feed raccoons, further encouraging them to stay near human settlements.
Squirrels:
* Food Abundance: Squirrels find abundant food sources in human-populated areas, such as bird feeders, gardens, and discarded food.
* Shelter: Squirrels can find shelter in attics, under decks, and in other structures around homes.
* Lack of fear: Unlike raccoons, squirrels are generally less wary of humans, especially if they have been fed or haven't had negative interactions.
* Natural resilience: Squirrels are very good at reproducing and adapting to their environment, which helps them flourish in human-dominated areas.
Important Note:
While raccoons and squirrels might appear to do well around humans, it's crucial to remember that they are wild animals.
* Disease risk: They can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans.
* Property damage: They can cause damage to property, especially when searching for food or shelter.
* Conflicts: They can become a nuisance when they become overly familiar with humans and their property.
It's important to practice responsible wildlife management, such as securing food sources, limiting contact, and seeking professional assistance when necessary to avoid potential conflicts and hazards.