Where Do Raccoons Sleep? A Guide for Homeowners in New Jersey

Raccoons are one of New Jersey's most common wildlife species. They’re known for their curious behavior, their ability to adapt to urban and suburban environments, and their uncanny ability to scavenge. If you're a homeowner in New Jersey, you might have wondered where these nocturnal creatures sleep, especially if you've noticed signs of raccoon activity around your home. Understanding where and how raccoons sleep can give you some insights into how to protect your home from these unwanted guests.

Raccoons’ Natural Habitats

In the wild, raccoons typically sleep in dens—small, safe places where they can rest during the day without fear of encountering predators. These dens are often found in:

• Hollow Trees – Large trees with cavities offer shelter from predators and the elements, providing a safe place for raccoons to sleep.
• Fallen Logs – Logs on the forest floor can serve as natural dens, keeping raccoons hidden from danger.
• Abandoned Burrows – Old burrows from other animals, like foxes or groundhogs, are often repurposed by raccoons for rest and safety.
• Rock Crevices – In rural areas, raccoons find refuge in cracks and caves among rocks, offering protection from predators.
• Dense Vegetation – Thick bushes and undergrowth provide cover, giving raccoons a safe and concealed resting place during the day.

New Jersey’s mix of wooded areas, parks, and suburban neighborhoods provides plenty of opportunities for raccoons to find cozy spots to sleep. However, as raccoons are highly adaptable, they have become skilled at finding shelter in urban and suburban areas as well.

Common Places Raccoons Sleep in Residential Areas

Raccoons are notorious for seeking shelter in attics, chimneys, crawl spaces, and even under decks or sheds. Here’s a look at some of the most common places raccoons in New Jersey may use as a sleeping area:

• Attics: Raccoons love attics because they offer warmth, shelter, and safety. The attic provides a secluded, quiet environment for the raccoon to sleep during the day. If you have an attic with gaps or holes, it’s important to inspect it for signs of raccoon activity, like droppings or chewed materials.
• Chimneys: Many homeowners are surprised to find out that raccoons sometimes take up residence in chimneys. If the chimney is not capped or sealed, raccoons may crawl down the flue to find a quiet spot for nesting.
• Crawl Spaces: Another popular place for raccoons to sleep is in crawl spaces beneath homes. These spaces are typically dark and undisturbed, making them an ideal place for a raccoon to rest and build a nest.
• Sheds and Garages: Sheds and garages with easy access, like broken windows or open doors, can also provide shelter for raccoons. These structures offer a quiet place for them to sleep and raise their young if they have found a way in.
• Under Decks: If your home has a deck or raised foundation, raccoons may slip under and make themselves comfortable. These areas offer a secluded spot that’s protected from the elements and from predators.

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Signs of Raccoons Sleeping Near Your Home

If you suspect raccoons are using your home as a resting place, it's important to know what signs to look for. Raccoons can be sneaky, but their presence often leaves telltale clues. Here are some common signs of raccoons sleeping near or inside your home:

Noises in the Attic or Walls

Raccoons are nocturnal, so if you hear scurrying, scratching, or thumping noises in the walls, attic, or ceilings at night, this is a strong indication that they’re active inside your home. These noises are often louder when they’re moving around to find food, socialize, or tend to their young.

Damage to Roofs, Vents, or Chimneys

Raccoons often chew and claw at roofing materials, vents, or chimneys to create an entry point. If you notice unusual damage like ripped shingles, torn flashing, or holes in your roof, it’s a sign that raccoons may be trying to make their way into your attic. Make sure to check areas where raccoons could enter, including chimneys and vent openings.

Raccoon Tracks or Droppings

If you spot tracks around your property or droppings near entry points, these can be clear indicators of raccoons nearby. Raccoon droppings often contain remnants of food, such as seeds, berries, and fur, and they may be larger and more cylindrical in shape than other animal droppings. Tracks left behind in soft dirt or snow can also show their presence.

Nest Material and Clutter

Raccoons often use attic insulation, shredded paper, leaves, and other materials to build their nests. If you find these materials around vents, soffits, or any other areas in your home, it’s a sign that raccoons are making themselves comfortable in your attic, chimney, or crawl space. Raccoons are particularly skilled at tearing up insulation to create a safe, cozy nest for themselves and their young.

Visible Raccoons During the Day

While raccoons are primarily nocturnal, seeing them during the day can indicate that they have established a den nearby. If you spot raccoons wandering around your yard or near your home during daylight hours, they may be more comfortable or desperate due to a lack of shelter or food. They can also be out during the day foraging for food for their young. This could point to a raccoon – and her babies – living in your home.