The spread of raccoons in Schleswig-Holstein threatens native species

Raccoons are increasingly spreading from the south to the north of Schleswig-Holstein. This was stated by the State Office for the Environment (LfU) at the request of the German Press Agency. The continuous increase in the raccoon population can be clearly seen from the hunting routes of the past few years.

The raccoon could pose a danger to amphibians and birds, explained LfU spokeswoman Vivien Matzen. Above all, it could threaten local populations of native species, especially rare and highly endangered species. Since 2020, the species has been widespread nationwide, with the exception of the islands.

According to the Schleswig-Holstein State Hunting Association, 2,935 raccoons were caught or shot in the 2024/25 hunting year (until the end of March 2025). The focus is in the southeast of the state. 1,850 raccoons were counted in the Duchy of Lauenburg district and 327 in the city of Lübeck, said René Hartwig from the state hunting association. The NDR had previously reported on the topic.

Species comes from North America

Raccoons (Latin Procyon lotor) originally come from North America and are an invasive species in this country that has no natural enemies, said Hartwig. He also sees the rapidly expanding population as a problem for biodiversity. Raccoons fed on whatever they could get their hands on, climbing trees and raiding nests, but also searching for fallen fruit or discarded food in the trash.

Birds and ground-nesting birds in particular need to be protected from them. But raccoons are also a danger to toads. Hunters in the country are called upon to hunt raccoons intensively, explained Hartwig.

One should not forget that the spread of raccoons is a man-made problem, said Carsten Pusch from the Schleswig-Holstein Nature Conservation Association (Nabu). The species, which is not native here, could of course pose a problem for ground-nesting birds, which would require measures to be taken. However, Pusch is in favor of a “factual, calmer discussion” of the topic.