**** Info via Hope for Wildlife
We have been receiving many calls about raccoons stuck in green bins and dumpsters recently.
If you come across a raccoon, or any animal, that has found itself stuck in a large commercial garbage bin, the best thing to do is to place a ladder, large branches, planks of wood, etc., in the bin to help them climb out on their own. Sometimes they may climb out within a couple minutes or hours but other times they may choose to stay in the bin until it gets dark. If you’re able to, check back the next morning to see if they are still there. If you notice one seems to be unable to climb out on its own despite having access to climbing materials, or it looks injured, please contact your local wildlife rehab for advice.
If you come across a raccoon stuck in a green bin, tip the bin on its side if possible and allow the raccoon to come out on its own. If the bin is too full or cannot be tipped over, you can try some of the climbing material recommended above. If the green bin is located in direct sunlight and can be moved to a more shaded area while the raccoon makes its way out, that would be ideal, especially on a hot summer days. If the green bin has food in it, and it is a hot day there is a possibility that the raccoon has inhaled some of those fermenting fumes and may be acting odd, stumbling around, and/or lethargic. Often times they can recover from this with some shade, fresh air and water but if you notice it staying around the same area after a couple of hours, please contact your local wildlife rehab for assistance.
