Wildlife Spotted at the Bird Sanctuary: The Gang of Raccoons
In the heart of Solingen, Germany, the local bird and animal park has become an unexpected hub for a unique group of creatures – raccoons. These masked bandits, resembling Monopoly Man with their curly tails and face masks, have been causing quite a stir.
Recently, a pest controller caught three young raccoons in an attic. The young ones were then handed over to Janett Heinrich, an animal keeper, who took them under her wing and initially took them home.
Janett, known for her passion and dedication, has been caring for these young raccoons, and she suggests giving them a new name – 'feel-bears' – due to their fine tactile sense. This ability is evident in their dexterous manipulation of objects, as they've been known to use screws, tools, scarves, and bags.
However, the rapid reproduction of raccoons has led to their inclusion on the EU list of invasive alien species in 2016. Despite this, breeding and keeping raccoons is prohibited, but the Animal Protection Act takes precedence in the care of these raccoon dogs at the Solingen Bird and Animal Park.
The mother raccoon was sadly found dead, leaving the young ones to cry for her. But Janett and her team have been working tirelessly to ensure their well-being. The young raccoons have been fed a diet of baby food, including banana-apple with zwieback.
The six raccoon dogs living in the park are not just skilled manipulators; they are also skilled climbers. They can easily scale all climbing opportunities, and three of them are often found in a large box hanging from a tree.
In a remarkable display of their intelligence, raccoons have been observed opening and closing hatches, as demonstrated by their use of a boat in the enclosure. This clever behaviour has also been observed by workers repairing the pump in the enclosure, who have experienced raccoons using their paws to manipulate objects.
As preparations for the Pentecost festival are ongoing at the park, local businesses, community members, and animal-related organizations in Solingen are invited to support by donating prizes for the lottery at the event. The proceeds will help ensure the continued care and well-being of the park's diverse array of animals, including the raccoons.
A marten, a 15-year-old resident of the park, can often be seen wandering through the terrain. Despite their reputation as invasive species, raccoons are predators that enjoy eating poultry, beef, grapes, and bananas.
The healthy and viable young raccoons are thriving under Janett's care, and the Solingen Bird and Animal Park is proud to provide them a safe haven. The park continues to be a testament to the beauty and intelligence of these remarkable creatures, and a reminder of the importance of conservation and care for all creatures, great and small.
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