What Is Raccoon Roundworm?
Raccoon roundworm, scientifically known as Baylisascaris procyonis, is a parasitic worm commonly found in the intestines of raccoons. While it doesn’t usually harm the raccoon, it poses a significant threat to humans and other animals. The danger comes from microscopic eggs shed in raccoon feces, which can survive in the environment for years. When accidentally ingested by people or pets, these eggs can hatch and the larvae can migrate to vital organs—including the brain, eyes, and spinal cord—causing severe disease or even death in rare cases.
How Humans Get Infected
Infection happens when people unknowingly ingest soil, water, or surfaces contaminated with raccoon feces. This can occur through simple activities like gardening, playing in the yard, or touching contaminated items and then touching your mouth or food. Children are especially at risk because they’re more likely to play in dirt or put their hands in their mouths. Even small amounts of contaminated dust can carry enough eggs to cause infection.
Pets can also be exposed by sniffing or licking areas where raccoons have defecated. Once infected, they may not show symptoms but can further spread the parasite in your home or yard.
Symptoms of Baylisascaris Infection
Although rare, human infection with raccoon roundworm can be extremely serious. Symptoms typically begin weeks after exposure and depend on where the larvae migrate in the body. Possible symptoms include nausea, fatigue, confusion, lack of coordination, vision problems, or even coma in severe cases. The condition, known as larva migrans, can be difficult to diagnose and often requires hospitalization and intensive treatment.
Early intervention is critical, but because the symptoms mimic other illnesses, diagnosis is often delayed. That’s why prevention and awareness are so important.
Where Raccoon Roundworm Is Found
Raccoon roundworm is most commonly found in areas where raccoon populations are high, including suburban and urban neighborhoods. Raccoons tend to defecate in the same places repeatedly—called latrines—often on flat surfaces like decks, rooftops, attics, or near trees and sheds. These latrines can contain thousands of infectious eggs, invisible to the naked eye. Because raccoons are nocturnal and discreet, many homeowners are unaware of a latrine until a serious cleanup is needed.
The Importance of Safe, Professional Cleanup
Attempting to clean up raccoon feces without proper safety measures can increase your risk of exposure. Disturbing dried feces may release airborne particles containing parasite eggs. Standard cleaning tools and household disinfectants are not enough to kill the eggs, which are extremely resilient. Specialized equipment, protective gear, and proper disposal methods are essential to safely handle and sanitize contaminated areas.
Wildlife X Team offers expert raccoon latrine cleanup services using industry-approved techniques to fully remove waste, sanitize the area, and eliminate any potential health hazards. We also inspect your property to identify raccoon entry points or nesting areas to prevent future problems.
How Wildlife X Team Can Help
At Wildlife X Team, we take raccoon infestations seriously—not just because of the nuisance they cause, but because of the real health risks they pose. Our technicians are trained to identify signs of raccoon presence, safely remove animals when necessary, and properly clean and sanitize any affected areas. We also offer exclusion and prevention services to seal entry points and ensure raccoons don’t return.
We understand that raccoon issues are more than just a wildlife problem—they’re a health and safety concern for your family. That’s why we use humane removal methods and provide long-term solutions tailored to your home and environment.
Protect Your Family from Raccoon Roundworm
If you’ve seen raccoons on your property or found droppings in your attic, roof, or yard, don’t wait. Raccoon roundworm is a real and serious threat that’s too dangerous to ignore. Contact Wildlife X Team for a thorough inspection and expert cleanup to keep your home and family safe. Our team is here to help you eliminate the risks and take back control of your space.