How Smart is a Raccoon?

There are several species within the animal kingdom that retain notable traits of intelligence, such as primates, dolphins, killer whales, horses, pigs, and of course, canines. But did you know that a common pest is also on the list of animals that are pretty smart? That’s right; those little masked bandits we call raccoons are quite intelligent, and there is plenty of research and evidence to back it up.

Continue reading to learn more about the average intelligence of the Common raccoon, and what you can do if raccoons are becoming a nuisance around your property.

Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622
Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

History of Raccoon Intelligence Research

Between the years of 1905 and 1915, the measurable of intelligence of a common raccoon was quite the heated dispute among the authorities in the field of comparative psychology. A psychologist by the name of Lawrence W. Cole created a colony of raccoons at the University of Oklahoma. In 1907, he and a doctoral student at Clark University named Herbert Burnham Davis, published the results of the experiment, detailing the raccoon’s processes of learning, association, and memory.

Their research relied heavily on puzzles, specifically E.L. Thorndike’s puzzle-box methodology, which involved putting the raccoons inside wood crates to see if they could escape by opening the latch, or even a sequence of latches. The raccoons’ comprehension and speed increased as they were given the test over and over again. From the results of their research, they were able to develop a “tolerable basis” for raccoon intelligence. They use this basis on a scale known as the phylogenetic scale of evolutionary development.

So how smart are raccoons? Based on old and new scientific studies, you can basically compare the level of intelligence and mental attributes of a common raccoon to that of a monkey, as they slightly surpass the intelligence of felines and canines.

What Does This Mean for the Average Person?

Raccoons are smart, and they are also a common pest. Combined, raccoons can be quite the threat to your property in many ways. Not only are raccoons intelligent and have good memory capacity, they have human-like paws that allow them to grip, grasp, pry, and open things, including window screens and door knobs!

Raccoons can cause a lot structural damage and lawn damage in search of food and shelter, but they are also known carriers of several infectious diseases, from lice to rabies. For this reason, it is best to keep them off of your property. Read our blog, “How to Keep Raccoons Away From Your House” to learn how to do your part.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons in Kentucky

Call 502-553-7622 if you are experiencing raccoon problems in Louisville, Kentucky. We offer residential and commercial raccoon removal and control, as well as, raccoon proofing and prevention, minor restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon cleanup, and much more. We may even be able to perform home owners’ insurance claim work. Request a free estimate or advice, anytime. Request a free estimate, anytime.

Louisville Raccoon Removal and Control