Instructions for shielding against raccoons and stray horses
In the circle of Herford, thousands of raccoons roam, posing a potential threat to homes and gardens. To help residents protect their properties, the local authorities have published an informative flyer detailing various measures to prevent raccoon damage.
The information flyer is readily available on the website of the circle of Herford at www.our website/Jagd-und-Fischerei/. For those who prefer a printed copy, it can also be found at the information point of the district administration in the Amtshausstraße.
To start with, securing your home is crucial. Replace any raised closure plates, loose roof tiles, and rotting facade cladding with a roofer's assistance. Secure chimneys with a strong metal grate, and provide other accesses (diameter 5 cm and above) with flaps that can only open outward.
Raccoons can cause significant damage to houses, such as roofing, insulation, electrical wiring, and trash cans. To prevent this, prune nearby trees or bushes if necessary, maintaining at least 1 meter distance between tree and house. Close cat flaps as tightly as possible, preferably choosing a model where only the owner's cat can open the flap and enter the house using a sensor.
Raccoons also pose a threat to native wildlife by plundering nests and eggs of birds and turtles. To protect fruit trees, install an approximately 1-meter-high, smooth metal collar without holding possibilities or a stem collar. Harvest ripe fruit and berries promptly and collect fallen fruit to minimize attracting raccoons.
Tightly close trash cans to prevent easy access to food waste. Avoid woodpiles for firewood, as they can attract raccoons. Lastly, cover compost to deny raccoons an inviting source of food.
It's important to note that raccoons are considered an invasive species in the circle of Herford, and hunting them without proper permits is illegal. In case of issues with raccoons, contact the local environmental or wildlife management office. Alternatively, you can reach out to Katja Rieck-Krieter and Jörg Bertram, who are designated for mediating contact details for those with hunting permits.
By taking these measures, residents of Herford can help protect their homes and gardens from raccoon damage, ensuring a peaceful coexistence with these animals.
