**** Info via Hope for Wildlife
Raccoons are very clever and curious animals and the smells coming from the types of household compost bins used for municipal pick-up is very tempting for them
They frequently get into these containers, but often can’t get back out again. Either they fall asleep for the night in there and choose to wait until evening to try to leave again, or they can become disoriented by inhaling fermenting fumes and may end up becoming too lethargic to get out. Then, in the extreme summer daytime heat, they often become dangerously dehydrated very quickly.
The best way to prevent animals from getting into your green bin is to secure the lid down tightly with a thick rubber bungee cord. The lid needs to be secure enough that the animal can’t pry it open at all. If you can’t open it – neither can they!
Make sure to check your green bins frequently to make sure no critters are inside. If you do find a raccoon or any other animal trapped in your green bin, please call your local wildlife rehabilitator for advice.
