Raccoons could become UKs next invasive pest threat
The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has identified the species as a growing concern, noting that raccoons are already well-established pests in parts of Europe and could quickly adapt to UK environments if introduced.
Niall Gallagher, technical manager at the BPCA, said: "Raccoons were imported into Germany from North America during the 1930s and rapidly became established across central Europe.
"What we've learned from this is that once established, raccoons can thrive in our natural environments."
While there is no evidence of a breeding population in the UK, raccoons have been identified by the Non-Native Species Secretariat (NNSS) as one of the top 20 species most likely to become invasive over the next decade.
Raccoons can live for up to four years in the wild and pose risks to both property and wildlife.
They also carry diseases and parasites that can be harmful to humans.
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