Raccoons: Winter Roaming & Early Breeding Season Dec 17, 2025

As winter settles in and temperatures continue to drop, raccoon activity around homes begins to rise—especially as their breeding season approaches. From January through March, raccoons enter one of their most active periods of the year, making winter a crucial time for homeowners to safeguard their properties. At Topper’s Wildlife Removal, we understand how disruptive raccoons can be during this season, and we’re here to help you stay informed and prepared.

Raccoon breeding season officially begins in January and continues through early spring. During this time, male raccoons roam more frequently, often traveling long distances in search of mates. This increased movement leads to more sightings around trash bins, garages, crawlspaces, and even roofs. Homeowners may notice loud noises at night as raccoons climb structures or explore potential entry points.

Female raccoons, on the other hand, spend the late winter months scouting for warm, secure places to give birth. With a gestation period of roughly 63 days, most young raccoons are born from late March through May—making winter the prime time for mothers to find safe denning sites. Attics, chimneys, wall voids, and insulated areas provide the perfect combination of warmth and protection, which is why these spaces often become targets.

Raccoons are known for their intelligence and dexterity, traits that make them remarkably skilled at bypassing barriers. They can open latches, tear through weakened rooflines, and slip through loose vents with ease. Homeowners frequently report heavy movement, thumping noises, or vocalizations coming from attics or ceilings—some of the most common signs of a raccoon intrusion.

To minimize the risk of raccoons entering your home this winter, start by inspecting your property for possible entry points. Focus on areas such as roof edges, soffits, chimneys, attic vents, and anywhere utilities pass through. Even small gaps can become access points for determined raccoons. Securing trash bins with tight lids and storing them away from the home can also reduce attraction.

Clearing tree branches that hang over your roof is another helpful precaution. Raccoons often use these branches as pathways, making roof access easier. Keeping outdoor areas free of scattered food, fallen fruit, or overflowing garbage further discourages raccoons from approaching your property.

Inside, pay attention to any unusual sounds or odors coming from the attic or walls. Raccoon presence can escalate quickly, especially when a pregnant female settles in for birth. Early detection is critical in preventing structural damage and avoiding the risk of disease transmission.

When in doubt, professional intervention is the safest solution. At Topper’s Wildlife Removal, our experienced team specializes in identifying entry points, safely removing raccoons, and securing your home against future intrusions. We prioritize humane practices to ensure raccoons are handled responsibly and relocated without harm.

Taking proactive steps now can help protect your home throughout the winter and early spring. With raccoon breeding season underway, awareness and preparation are essential to keeping your property safe, secure, and raccoon-free. Let Topper’s Wildlife Removal support you in maintaining the peace and integrity of your home this season.