Raccoons with fur loss spotted in Songdo city… Investigation initiated by Yeonsu-gu

A group of raccoons with fur loss has been discovered in a public park in Songdo International City, Incheon, prompting an investigation by the local authorities in Yeonsu-gu.

According to local community reports on the 27th, three raccoons were spotted near the garbage disposal site adjacent to Dalbit Park in Yeonsu-gu, mostly devoid of fur except for parts of their heads and tails. They were found in a severely emaciated state, raising concerns among local residents.

Additionally, Yonhap News reported that on the 23rd and 24th, raccoons with complete fur loss were photographed along a riverside walking path near a high school in Songdo.

The raccoon is an omnivorous mammal belonging to the Procyonidae family, smaller than a fox, with a pointed snout and a blunt tail. Their fur is primarily used for making winter clothing, and they can sometimes be spotted during the day in forested areas or parks.

"Possibility of parasitic infection… Reflecting deterioration of habitat"

Yeonsu-gu suspects that raccoons have moved into urban parks due to habitat loss stemming from forest development activities.

Seomun Hong, an environmental researcher at the National Institute of Biological Resources, explained to Yonhap News, "The raccoons found are likely infected with 'Baylisascaris.'"

The researcher added, "It has been revealed that the elusive creature known as Chupacabra was actually a coyote infected with Baylisascaris, which suggests that raccoons with fur loss can easily be mistaken for other species."

He further noted, "Raccoons tend to live in groups, so if one becomes infected with Baylisascaris, nearby individuals can quickly become infected as well. This indicates that the overall health of the population and their habitat has deteriorated."

Baylisascaris can infect a variety of mammals, including humans, but it is known that the risk of transmission to humans is low unless there is direct contact.

Yeonsu-gu introduces rescue and disease prevention measures

In response to the increasing sightings of raccoons in urban parks in Songdo, the Incheon Facilities Corporation has installed banners advising, "Approaching the raccoons may cause injury; please maintain a safe distance and pass by without drawing attention."

A representative from Yeonsu-gu stated, "We regularly spray rabies vaccines in key sighting areas to prevent the spread of diseases."

He continued, "We plan to rescue the identified raccoons and transport them to the Wild Animal Rescue and Management Center for a detailed investigation. We will comprehensively assess their habitat and health conditions to consider further actions."

Image source: Raccoons infected with 'Baylisascaris' found in Songdo urban park / News1, unrelated stock photo / News1