By Michael Howie
An urban fence designed to offer privacy and a bit of security continues to provide opportunities for local wildlife – this time, with a view of the area.
In a recent post, I wrote of the diverse species who made use of a small gap at the bottom of the fence to make their way between various properties. While sitting outside just before twilight on the evening of summer solstice, I had the opportunity to see how two raccoons found another way to use the fence.
Both raccoons came from an intersection of fence posts on the north side of the yard, checked out insects on the dead tree, gave themselves a few scritches and a moments rest, then eased along the top, marking along the way. They ignored the trail cam mounted in the tree, and happily went onto the chain link fence next door.
This simple, sweet moment I was fortunate to watch is a reminder for me of the incredible adaptability of raccoons and other urban wildlife; it’s a reminder that raccoons have relationships and depend on each other; and it’s a reminder that coexistence starts with learning to appreciate neighbours who are significantly different than ourselves. Even if they rub their butts on my fence.
Do you have great trail cam footage from your urban or rural home? Send it in to us via info@TheFurBearers.com, or tag us on our social media channels when you post. Your video or photos may become a future Eye on Wildlife Post!
Michael Howie is the Director of Communications for The Fur-Bearers and host of the Defender Radio and The Switch podcasts. He lives in urban Hamilton, Ontario, on the traditional territories of the Erie, Neutral, Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee and Mississaugas.
