Raccoons are found throughout Arizona, despite its predominantly arid climate. The species present is the common raccoon (Procyon lotor), which is highly adaptable to various North American environments. While often associated with forests and wetlands, their presence in Arizona is a testament to their opportunistic nature and ability to thrive near reliable water sources.
Raccoon Species and Arizona Distribution
The common raccoon (Procyon lotor) is the sole raccoon species inhabiting Arizona. Although much of the landscape is desert, their survival is dictated by the availability of permanent water, which supports the vegetation needed for cover and den sites. This reliance concentrates populations along riparian corridors—the lush areas bordering rivers and streams.
Major river systems, such as the Colorado, Salt, and Gila Rivers, create lifelines that allow raccoons to flourish even in the Sonoran Desert. Their presence is common in metropolitan areas like Phoenix and Tucson, where managed water sources, irrigation canals, and artificial ponds provide consistent habitat. They are highly adaptable omnivores, utilizing both natural food sources and human attractants like garbage and pet food within these urban environments.
The Ringtail (Bassariscus astutus), Arizona’s state mammal, is often mistaken for a raccoon due to its masked face and ringed tail, but it is a separate species. While both belong to the Procyonidae family, the Ringtail is smaller and more slender, preferring rocky canyons and crevices rather than the dense riparian habitats favored by the raccoon.
Managing Encounters in Residential Areas
The raccoon’s adaptability to urban areas means that human-wildlife encounters are frequent. To prevent raccoons from becoming a nuisance, residents should secure all potential food and shelter sources around the home. This includes using heavy-duty latches on trash cans, never leaving pet food outdoors, and cleaning up fallen fruit from trees.
Prevention also involves exclusion, which means blocking off access to denning locations like attics, sheds, and chimneys. Raccoons can enter surprisingly small spaces, so sealing openings with materials like wire mesh or metal flashing prevents them from establishing a den. Trimming tree branches away from the roofline can also remove the natural bridge raccoons use to gain entry to the attic.
A concern when encountering raccoons is the potential for disease transmission, as they are known carriers of several zoonotic pathogens. Rabies is a viral infection transmitted through a bite or scratch; any raccoon exhibiting abnormal behavior, such as being active during the day or acting disoriented, should be avoided. Never attempt to approach or feed any wild animal, as this habituates them to humans and increases the risk of negative interactions.
Raccoon feces, often deposited in communal areas called latrines, can contain the eggs of the raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis). This parasite poses a risk to humans and pets, as accidental ingestion of the microscopic eggs can lead to neurological damage. Cleanup of these latrines should be done with caution, using protective gear, or preferably handled by a professional.
In Arizona, raccoons are classified as restricted live wildlife, meaning homeowners cannot legally trap and relocate them without proper authorization. Attempting removal, especially relocation, is illegal and can spread disease or cause the animal undue stress. If a raccoon has entered your home or is causing property damage, the safest course of action is to contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) or a licensed nuisance wildlife removal specialist.