January, historically, is our coldest and snowiest month. This January, however, is not living up to its uncomfortable reputation. For those who leave their filled bird feeders outside overnight, the unseasonably warm weather has been producing a risk around here this month: Our raccoons have been awakening and taking winter strolls. Unsubstantial bird feeders are being found in shambles.
Raccoons aren’t true hibernators like turtles that reach a near-death state all winter. Raccoons are more like their distant cousins, the bears. They put on fat in the fall and early winter, find a den, curl up, and go into a deep sleep that can last up to 30 days. But, they can be awakened from their dreams and, once awake, they think of food – the easiest to find, the better.
Brooklin, Maine; Leighton Archive images used)