What Can I Put Out for Raccoons to Eat? A Complete Guide to Safe and Ethical Feeding

Raccoons are one of North America’s most clever and adaptable wild animals. With their masked faces and nimble paws, these nocturnal creatures often show up in backyards, alleys, and parks, especially in urban and suburban areas. As intelligent omnivores, raccoons are always on the hunt for a quick meal—and if they’ve started visiting your property, you may wonder what you can safely and responsibly offer them to eat.

But before you start placing food out for raccoons, it’s crucial to understand their dietary needs, the risks of feeding wild animals, and how to do it in a way that doesn’t endanger the animals, your property, or your community. This comprehensive guide explores what food raccoons naturally eat, which human foods are safe and unsafe to offer, and best practices for interacting with these fascinating creatures.

Understanding the Raccoon Diet: Nature’s Opportunistic Omnivore

Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are omnivorous, meaning they consume both plant and animal matter. Their diet varies significantly depending on habitat, season, and food availability. In the wild, raccoons are opportunistic foragers who use their incredibly dexterous front paws to locate and manipulate food sources.

What Do Raccoons Eat in the Wild?

In their natural habitats—woodlands, wetlands, and riparian zones—raccoons forage for:

• Fruits and nuts (e.g., berries, acorns, persimmons)
• Insects and invertebrates (e.g., grubs, worms, crayfish)
• Eggs from ground-nesting birds
• Small animals (e.g., frogs, mice, snakes)
• Plant roots, tubers, and vegetables

They’re particularly fond of aquatic environments, where they can catch fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. Raccoons are also known to “wash” their food by dousing it in water—a behavior not for cleanliness, but likely to enhance sensory perception through touch.

Seasonal Dietary Changes

Raccoons adapt their diets with changing seasons:

Spring and Summer: Insects, fruits, and bird eggs are abundant. Raccoons supplement their diet with tender greens and ripening vegetation.

Fall: They enter a phase called “hyperphagia,” where they eat excessively to build fat reserves for winter. Nuts, corn, and other high-calorie plant foods are prioritized.

Winter: While raccoons don’t fully hibernate, they may sleep for extended periods during cold snaps. They rely on stored fat and scavenge opportunistically when active.

Raccoons in Urban Environments: Challenges and Considerations

As cities expand, raccoons have become highly adaptable to urban life. They thrive near human settlements because of the abundance of food—often in the form of trash, pet food, or garden produce. While this adaptability is impressive, it creates complex challenges.

Feeding raccoons may seem harmless or even kind-hearted, but it can have unintended consequences, including:

• Encouraging dependency on human-provided food
• Increasing aggression or nuisance behaviors
• Raising the risk of disease transmission (e.g., rabies, raccoon roundworm)
• Attracting other pests (skunks, opossums, rats)
• Causing property damage (ripping open trash cans, nesting in attics)

Even well-meaning feeders can disrupt natural foraging behaviors and alter the animals’ relationship with humans. However, if you’re committed to supporting local wildlife responsibly, offering natural and safe food can be done with caution.

Safe and Appropriate Foods to Offer Raccoons (Occasionally)

If you choose to provide food—whether out of curiosity, compassion, or wildlife observation—it’s essential to offer items that mimic their natural diet and avoid processed or unhealthy options.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh, organic fruits and vegetables are among the safest choices.

Recommended options include:

• Hard apples (sliced, no seeds)
• Berries (strawberries, blackberries, raspberries)
• Watermelon (rind removed)
• Corn on the cob
• Sweet potatoes (cooked, not seasoned)
• Carrots (chopped)
• Peas and green beans

Avoid citrus fruits and avocados, which may upset their digestive systems.

Best Practices for Offering Produce

• Wash all produce thoroughly to remove pesticides.
• Cut into small, manageable pieces.
• Avoid overfeeding—offer only what can be consumed in one sitting.
• Remove any uneaten food the next morning to prevent mold and pests.

Protein Sources

Raccoons require protein for muscle development and overall health. They can benefit from occasional animal-based foods, especially during breeding or nursing seasons.

Good protein options:

• Boiled or scrambled eggs (no seasoning)
• Plain cooked chicken (unseasoned, no bones)
• Mealworms or crickets (live or dried, available at pet stores)
• Crayfish or small fish (in regions where available)

Avoid raw meats due to the risk of bacterial contamination. Also, never offer processed meats like bacon, sausage, or deli cuts, which are high in salt and preservatives.

Grains and Whole Foods

While raccoons do consume grains in the wild (especially corn), processed grains should be limited.

Viable options:

• Plain, unsweetened oats
• Brown rice (cooked, cooled)
• Whole grain bread (in small quantities, as a rare treat)

Do not offer sugary cereals, pastries, or bread with butter, garlic, or onions. These can be toxic or lead to obesity.

Hydration: Don’t Forget Water

While it’s not food, clean water is essential. Always place a shallow bowl of fresh water nearby if you’re offering food, especially during dry seasons. Change the water daily to prevent algae or mosquito larvae.

What NOT to Feed Raccoons: A Critical Guide

Just as important as what you should feed is what you must avoid. Some commonly assumed “safe” foods can be harmful or even deadly to raccoons.

Foods That Are Toxic or Harmful

The following should never be offered:

Common Human Foods That Are Misunderstood

Many people assume that leftover human meals are safe for raccoons. This is incorrect.

Examples of harmful “treats”:

• Fried foods (excess fat causes digestive issues)
• Pet food (high salt and artificial ingredients; better to avoid altogether)
• Anything seasoned with spices, oils, or sauces
• Baked goods with sugar or chocolate

While raccoons may eat these foods eagerly, long-term consumption damages their health and encourages dependence on subpar nutrition.

How and Where to Feed Raccoons (If You Choose To)

If you’re determined to offer food, doing so responsibly minimizes risks and respects the animal’s wild nature.

Choose a Designated Feeding Area

Select a spot away from your house, preferably in the backyard or near natural vegetation. This reduces the chance of them associating your home with food, which could lead to invasive behavior.

Use a Feeding Station (Optional)

A dedicated platform or tray, elevated slightly off the ground, can help:

• Keep food clean and safe from ants or moisture
• Discourage other pests
• Allow for easy cleanup

Clean the station regularly with mild, non-toxic soap and water to prevent bacteria buildup.

Timing and Frequency

Raccoons are nocturnal, so offer food at dusk or just after nightfall.

Limit frequency: Never feed raccoons daily. Occasional offerings (once or twice a week) at irregular times help maintain their natural foraging instincts. Daily feeding increases dependency and attracts multiple animals, which can lead to territorial conflicts.

Avoid Hand-Feeding

Never attempt to hand-feed a raccoon. Even if they appear friendly, they are wild animals with sharp teeth and claws. Feeding by hand can encourage aggression or make them less fearful of humans, increasing risks of bites or scratches.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

In many cities and states, it is illegal to intentionally feed wildlife, including raccoons. Local ordinances often exist for public health and safety reasons.

Why Feeding May Be Illegal

• Increased risk of disease transmission
• Attraction of nuisance wildlife
• Public safety concerns
• Disruption of ecological balance

Before offering food, check your municipal code or wildlife regulations. Violations may carry fines.

Is It Ethical to Feed Raccoons?

Even if legal, the practice raises ethical questions.

Wild animals should maintain natural behaviors. Frequent feeding can:

• Reduce their ability to survive independently
• Increase conflict with humans
• Disrupt local ecosystems

Instead of feeding, consider supporting raccoon welfare through ethical means:

• Install secure trash bins
• Provide wildlife-friendly landscaping (native plants, berry bushes)
• Create a raccoon-proof garden if they’re damaging crops

Alternatives to Feeding: How to Coexist Safely with Raccoons

Rather than directly feeding raccoons, you can create a habitat-friendly environment without encouraging dependency.

Secure Your Property

• Use raccoon-proof trash containers with latches
• Bring in pet food at night
• Cover compost bins and avoid putting meat or dairy in them
• Seal off potential denning sites (attics, crawl spaces, under decks)

Support Wildlife Without Intervention

Create a backyard sanctuary with:

• Native trees and shrubs that produce edible fruits or nuts
• A water source, such as a birdbath or fountain
• Rock piles or log stacks where small animals can shelter

These provide habitat and indirect food sources without forming unhealthy associations.

Report Problematic Raccoons

If raccoons are causing damage, appearing sick (disoriented, foaming at the mouth), or acting aggressively, contact local wildlife control or animal services. Do not attempt to trap or handle them yourself.

Myths About Raccoons and Feeding

Several misconceptions contribute to unsafe behaviors around raccoons.

Myth 1: “Raccoons are clean animals because they wash their food.”

While raccoons often dunk food in water, this isn’t hygiene. The behavior enhances tactile sensing, helping them identify texture and composition. They are not inherently cleaner than other scavengers.

Myth 2: “Feeding raccoons tames them.”

Raccoons cannot be tamed like domestic pets. Any “friendly” behavior is likely food-motivated, not affection. Close interactions increase risks of bites and disease transmission.

Myth 3: “Giving food helps them survive winter.”

Healthy raccoons are well-adapted to seasonal changes. Artificial feeding can interfere with natural cycles and encourage winter activity, exposing them to greater risks.

Conclusion: Respect Wildlife, But Avoid Feeding Raccoons

While it’s natural to feel compassion for raccoons—or even enjoy their playful antics—the best way to care for them is to let them remain wild. Their survival depends on instincts honed over centuries, not human handouts.

If you truly want to help raccoons, focus on:

• Making your property raccoon-safe without encouraging dependency
• Preserving natural habitats
• Educating others about wildlife ethics

When it comes to feeding raccoons, the safest answer to “What can I put out for raccoons to eat?” is often: nothing at all. Their best meals are the ones they find on their own.

However, if you occasionally choose to offer food, do so sparingly, responsibly, and with strict adherence to safe, natural options. Prioritize their long-term well-being over short-term interaction.

Raccoons are intelligent, resilient animals. With thoughtful coexistence, we can admire them from a distance, protect our communities, and support healthy wildlife ecosystems—without compromising their wild nature.

What should I feed raccoons to ensure their safety and health?

Raccoons are omnivores with a natural diet consisting of fruits, nuts, insects, small animals, and plant matter. To keep raccoons safe and healthy, you can offer foods like fresh fruits (apples, bananas, berries), vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, peas), and cooked eggs. Hard-boiled eggs, unseasoned cooked chicken, and unsalted nuts such as peanuts or sunflower seeds also provide good protein and fat sources. It’s crucial to avoid processed, salty, or sugary human foods, as these can harm raccoons’ digestive systems and overall health.

Additionally, providing clean, fresh water is essential, especially if you’re regularly feeding raccoons. Meals should be offered in moderation and not as a primary food source, allowing raccoons to maintain their natural foraging behaviors. Consistency is important; irregular feeding can lead to dependency or aggressive behavior. By sticking to natural, nutrient-dense foods and avoiding harmful items like chocolate, caffeine, onions, and garlic, you support the raccoons’ well-being without compromising their long-term survival skills.

Is it safe to feed raccoons, and what are the risks involved?

Feeding raccoons may seem harmless, but it comes with several risks that both humans and animals should consider. One major concern is habituation—when raccoons lose their natural fear of people, they may become bolder and approach homes, vehicles, or even people directly, increasing the chance of conflict. They can also become dependent on human-provided food, which reduces their instinct to forage and weakens their ability to survive independently in the wild.

Another significant risk is disease transmission. Raccoons can carry rabies, leptospirosis, and raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis), which can be dangerous to pets and humans. Feeding sites can become contaminated with feces and saliva, increasing disease spread. Additionally, attracting raccoons may also draw other wildlife or pests, such as opossums or rats, leading to broader ecological disruption. For these reasons, many wildlife experts recommend avoiding feeding raccoons altogether, except in controlled rehabilitation settings.

What foods should I avoid giving to raccoons?

Several common human foods are toxic or harmful to raccoons and should never be offered. Avoid processed items like chips, cookies, and candy, which contain high levels of salt, sugar, and artificial additives. Dairy products can also upset their stomachs, as raccoons may be lactose intolerant. Foods toxic to many animals—such as chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and alcohol—are equally dangerous for raccoons and can lead to serious illness or even death.

Moreover, raw meat, especially if spoiled or uncooked, poses a risk of bacterial contamination like salmonella or E. coli. Moldy bread or leftovers should not be given, as they may contain mycotoxins that damage internal organs. Highly seasoned or greasy foods, such as fried chicken or fast food, lack nutritional value and can cause digestive issues. Sticking to whole, unprocessed, and natural foods helps safeguard raccoons’ health and reduces the likelihood of attracting pests or promoting unnatural behaviors.

How often should I feed raccoons if I choose to do so?

If you decide to feed raccoons despite the potential risks, it should be done very sparingly and not on a daily basis. Occasional feeding, such as once a week or less, minimizes the chance of raccoons becoming dependent on human-provided food. Never leave food out constantly, as this encourages prolonged visits and may lead to congregation, increasing disease and conflict risks. Feeding should mimic natural food scarcity patterns rather than replace their foraging routines entirely.

It’s also important to consider seasonal variations. In warmer months, raccoons typically find ample natural food sources, so feeding should be reduced or avoided altogether. During harsh winters or droughts, when food is scarcer, limited supplemental feeding might be more justifiable. However, even then, the goal should be temporary support, not long-term sustenance. Regular evaluation of the local raccoon population and consultation with wildlife professionals can help determine if, when, and how often feeding should occur.

Where is the safest place to put out food for raccoons?

The safest location to offer food for raccoons is a secluded, quiet outdoor area away from your home, such as a wooded edge or a distant corner of your yard. This helps prevent them from associating your house or porch with food, reducing the risk of property damage or unwanted encounters. Use a sturdy, raised platform or a designated feeding station at least five feet off the ground to discourage other pests like rodents and keep food cleaner and less accessible to pets.

Additionally, avoid placing food near garbage bins, compost piles, or pet feeding areas, as this can increase attraction to undesirable locations. Always remove any uneaten food within 12 to 24 hours to prevent spoilage, minimize scavenger activity, and reduce the chances of disease transmission. Cleaning the feeding area regularly with a wildlife-safe disinfectant also helps maintain hygiene. Thoughtful placement and maintenance of food stations can help minimize risks to both animals and humans.

Can feeding raccoons disrupt the local ecosystem?

Yes, feeding raccoons can have unintended consequences on the local ecosystem. Artificial food sources can alter natural foraging patterns and cause raccoon populations to increase unnaturally in specific areas. This overpopulation can lead to increased competition for resources, stress on native wildlife, and heightened rates of disease transmission among animals. Additionally, raccoons may begin preying more heavily on local bird nests, amphibians, or small mammals, disrupting the balance of other species.

Beyond direct ecological effects, feeding raccoons often indirectly benefits invasive or nuisance species. Rodents, opossums, and feral cats may also exploit the food sources meant for raccoons, further complicating the ecosystem. Changes in animal behavior due to feeding—such as increased nocturnal activity around homes or altered migration patterns—can affect plant pollination, seed dispersal, and predator-prey relationships. Ultimately, even well-intentioned feeding can cascade into broader environmental imbalances.

Are there ethical alternatives to feeding raccoons?

Yes, there are several ethical and responsible ways to support raccoons without direct feeding. One effective approach is creating a wildlife-friendly yard by planting native vegetation, installing water sources like small ponds or fountains, and preserving natural shelters such as fallen logs or brush piles. These elements support raccoons’ natural behaviors and provide sustenance through insects, fruits, and shelter without encouraging dependence on humans.

Another ethical alternative is supporting local wildlife rehabilitation centers or conservation programs. Donating time, money, or supplies helps care for injured or orphaned raccoons while promoting long-term solutions for coexistence. Educating neighbors about the importance of securing trash, eliminating attractants, and respecting wildlife boundaries also contributes to a safer, healthier environment. By focusing on habitat preservation and prevention of human-wildlife conflict, you support raccoons in a sustainable and responsible way.