November 23, 2023 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant
Most baby raccoons stay with their mother until they are about a year old. After that, they typically strike out on their own to find their own territory. However, some young raccoons may remain with their mothers for up to two years before venturing out on their own.
When baby raccoons are born, they’re completely helpless. Their eyes aren’t even open yet, and they can’t walk or climb. For the first few weeks of their lives, they stay in the nest with their mother.
Slowly but surely, they start to grow and develop. By the time they’re two months old, they’re usually starting to venture out of the nest on their own a bit.
By three months old, most baby raccoons are able to fend for themselves pretty well.
They’re still learning though, and mistakes happen. That’s why you might see a young raccoon rummaging through your trashcan or taking a nap in your tree! Baby raccoons typically stay close to their mothers until they’re around six months old.
After that, it’s time for them to strike out on their own and find a mate.
How to Tell How Old a Baby Raccoon is?
When trying to determine the age of a baby raccoon, there are several things you can look at. First, check the size of the raccoon. Baby raccoons are usually about half the size of an adult raccoon.
Second, look at the fur. Baby raccoons have softer, fluffier fur than adults. Third, look at the eyes.
Baby raccoons have blue eyes, while adults have brown or black eyes. Finally, listen to the sound that the raccoon makes. Baby raccoons make higher-pitched sounds than adults.
Credit: www.animalatticpest.com
How Long to Baby Raccoons Stay With Their Mother?
Raccoons are relatively solitary creatures, but mothers and their young will stay together until the offspring are ready to strike out on their own. This can be anywhere from four to eight months old, depending on the species. In North America, there are two main types of raccoon: the common raccoon and the Virginia opossum.
The common raccoon is found throughout most of the continent, while the Virginia opossum is only found in the southeastern United States. Both species have similar gestation periods (around 63 days), but their weaning periods differ slightly. Common raccoons will typically wean their young at around four months old, while Virginia opossums will do so at around six months old.
After a period of time spent nursing and growing with their mother, juvenile raccoons will start to explore their surroundings and learn how to fend for themselves. They’ll still rely on their mother for food and shelter during this time, but they’ll gradually become more independent until they’re ready to go off on their own entirely.
How Big is a 3 Month Old Raccoon?
Raccoons are medium-sized mammals that weigh anywhere from 8 to 20 pounds, with an average weight of 12 to 15 pounds. Adult raccoons typically measure 23 to 37 inches long, including their tail. Three-month-old raccoons generally weigh between 2 and 4 pounds and measure 10 to 12 inches long, not including their tail.
Can a 3 Month Old Raccoon Survive on Its Own?
No, a 3 month old raccoon cannot survive on its own. It is still too young to fend for itself and would not be able to find enough food or shelter. If you have found a 3 month old raccoon, it is best to contact your local wildlife rehabilitator for help.
Do Raccoons Come Back to the Same Place?
Raccoons are very intelligent animals and have been known to remember places where they have found food in the past. If you have a raccoon that is coming around to your property regularly, chances are it has found a consistent food source and will continue to come back as long as the food is available. In some cases, raccoons can become nuisance animals if they are constantly raiding your garbage cans or getting into your garden.
If this is the case, you may want to take steps to deter them from returning.
How Long Do Baby Raccoons Take To Grow Up?
Conclusion
When do baby raccoons leave the nest? It depends on a few factors, but typically, around 3-4 months of age. The young will stay with their mother until fall, when they disperse to find mates and establish their own territories.
About Author (Marjorie R. Rogers)
The inspiring mum of 6 who dedicates her time to supporting others. While battling with her own demons she continues to be the voice for others unable to speak out. Mental illness almost destroyed her, yet here she is fighting back and teaching you all the things she has learned along the way. Get Started To Read …
