Police say raccoon attack in Montclair ‘unusual’

A raccoon bit the hands of a Montclair man on Saturday.

Police issued a wild animal advisory following the attacked they call “unusual.”

Here’s the full advisory from police:

On May 28, 2016 a man reported being the victim of an unprovoked attack by a raccoon in the 4700 block of Hickory Nut Place, Dumfries. The victim was bitten and received lacerations to his hands. The raccoon has not been located but a trap has been set.

It is extremely unusual for a raccoon, even one that is sick, to attack a human.

The mere presence of a raccoon on your property is not necessarily a cause for alarm. These animals are not known to be predatory toward humans and rarely pose a threat to pets. Raccoons can be seen during daylight hours, and daytime activity does not necessarily imply they are rabid, sick, or acting aggressively. Raccoons can be active during the day, especially during hot, dry weather and at this time of year when raising their young.

The safest thing to do is leave raccoons and other wildlife alone and to notify others to keep a distance. Teach children to not approach, feed, or try to pet raccoons or other wildlife.

Reinforce that these are wild animals and that they should remain that way. If at all possible, attempt to keep pets from chasing or harassing raccoons or other wildlife, as any wild animal in the act of defending itself could potentially cause harm.

Raccoons are often attracted to houses and properties due to unsecured trash cans, dumpsters, pet food left outside, fruit trees, and barbecue grills. These animals have keen senses of smell, and anything that smells like a potential food source could attract them. Homeowners should make sure they are not attracting wildlife to their yard.

If you see a raccoon that is displaying any combination of behaviors that include staggering, seemingly oblivious to noise or nearby movement, wandering erratically, discharge from its eyes or mouth, wet and matted hair on its face, making repeated high-pitched noises or self-mutilation, then call the Animal Control Bureau through the police non-emergency number of 703 792 6500.