Raccoons, once imported to Europe for fur, have become an invasive species, threatening local wildlife and requiring regulated capture and management.
In the 1930s, fur coats were considered the height of fashion and one animal in particular paid the price for its popularity: the raccoon.
It was during this time that raccoons were introduced to Europe, where they quickly adapted to their new environment. Nearly a century later, their population has exploded, and experts now warn that raccoons pose a serious threat to native wildlife.
Highly adaptable and intelligent, raccoons thrive in both forests and urban areas. In the United States, they are affectionately nicknamed "trash pandas" for their knack for opening rubbish bins and scavenging for food.
In Europe, however, their presence is far from harmless. Raccoons are officially classified as an invasive species, meaning their spread must be closely monitored and contained to protect local ecosystems.
Two-faced dwellers
For hunters, raccoons are generally not a major concern. Hunting this small predator is allowed year-round, and although it mostly occurs at night, the numbers tell a clear story. In 2015, hunters shot 633 raccoons; by 2022, that number had already risen to 1,357, according to Statec.
Recent figures from Wincrange indicate that 168 raccoons were culled in 2023 alone. Raccoons pose a threat to a wide range of wildlife. From birds' nests, young fawns, small hares, and even frogs no-one is safe from the furry creature, explains Carmen Weisgerber, Deputy Director of the Nature and Forest Agency (NFA). Originally only found in Northern Luxembourg, raccoons are now increasingly fond of even more urbanised areas such as the capital.
Impact on local wildlife
Raccoons may look cute, but they can quickly cause trouble. Authorised capture of these animals is allowed, but releasing them back into the wild is now prohibited. As a result, wildlife centres are not suitable for housing raccoons, and even local and animal parks in neighbouring countries are fully booked when it comes to accommodating them.
Technically, culling raccoons is permitted, as they are classified as an invasive species, explains Felix Wildschütz. However, this is only allowed if it is part of an official action plan under the responsibility of the Ministry of the Environment. The head of the veterinary inspection stated that ultimate responsibility lies with the Environment Ministry. According to the Ministry's NFA, their involvement ends once the raccoon has been safely captured.
Congrats, you've caught a raccoon! But what now?
Outside of hunting activities, capturing a raccoon in Luxembourg requires a permit. Such permits can be obtained relatively quickly by applying to the NFA. Last year, around 30 applications were submitted and approved.
The process has been carefully considered, including the traps themselves, which must meet strict criteria to ensure the animal does not suffer, explains Carmen Weisgerber from the NFA. Efforts are also being made to simplify administrative procedures.
For now, anyone who has captured a raccoon must decide on their own what to do with the animal. They may simply have to wait until authorities reach a conclusion regarding the raccoon’s fate. The final decision ultimately rest with the Environment Ministry.
