Good food, a suitable climate and no natural enemies – raccoons feel at home in the capital. And there are more and more.
Berlin – The raccoon is spreading in Berlin. The population is now estimated at several hundred animals, reports Derk Ehlert, advisor to the Berlin environmental administration. You would find Alexanderplatz or Breitscheidplatz more attractive than a forest by now.
The growing population also leads to more calls to the wildlife phone. On average, 50 citizens a month have questions about raccoons, reports Ehlert. One of them: Have they got lost?
Raccoons have recently become Berliners without the capital noticing much of it. “The populations have long been underestimated because you hardly ever saw raccoons,” says Ehlert. Because unlike martens or foxes, they could climb well and hide above the visual axes.
Around 20 years ago there were hardly any raccoons in Berlin. In the past ten years in particular, the animals then multiplied so much that their population is now slowly becoming noticeable, says Ehlert. At the moment, inquiries were increasing. Because in autumn raccoons eat a cushion for their hibernation – and like to use it in gardens.
The main reason for the spread and multiplication of raccoons in Berlin is the good food supply, the warmer climate and the lack of enemies, explains the wildlife expert. Professional hunting is generally prohibited in populated areas.
The little bears with black snub noses and curly tails are not only brave, curious and intelligent – they are omnivores. They are usually out and about at dusk and at night. “They use rubbish bins like supermarkets,” reports Ehlert. “They have gone from hunters to collectors.” Dpa
