Supervisor Jon Kaiman and the North Hempstead Town Board—prompted by a number of calls by residents expressing concerns about raccoons on their properties—urge residents to be cautious about coming into contact with the animals, which are often vectors for rabies.

Rabies can be transmitted to humans and other animals by the bite of an infected raccoon, Nassau County Health Department officials said.  If you suspect a raccoon is rabid—typically characterized by aggressiveness and heavy salivation—avoid or destroy the animal and contact local health officials.

While Town of North Hempstead Animal Control has no authority to trap or otherwise control raccoons, following are some options available to residents concerned the presence of the pesky critters: 

• Remove artificial food sources such as pet food and bird feeds.

• Protect children at play by covering sandboxes and making sure they wash their hands after outdoor activity.

Call the Nassau County Department of Health if:

• A person or pet has come into contact with a raccoon.
• You discover a raccoon in your living space call a Nuisance Wildlife Trapper. A list of approved trappers in your area can be had by contacting the NYSDEC at 631-444-0345 or the Nassau County Department of Health at 516-227-9455.