Bermuda Says it Will Euthanise a Raccoon That Escaped From a Shipping Container

HAMILTON, Bermuda – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) says a raccoon that escaped from a shipping container on Monday that had recently arrived in Bermuda will be humanely euthanised.

The Department thanked the members of the public who had been able to trap the animal until the authorities had arrived saying their prompt action contributed to a safe and successful response.

“As Bermuda does not have a native raccoon population, the importation of this animal presented a serious biosecurity concern. DENR emphasises that raccoons can carry a range of diseases and parasites that pose a risk to people, pets, livestock, and wildlife.”

The Department said that these include serious zoonotic threats such as rabies and raccoon roundworm, as well as other infectious diseases and parasites that are not present in Bermuda.

“In keeping with the need to protect Bermuda’s environment, animal health, and public health, the raccoon will be humanely euthanised,”  the DENR said, reminding importers, shipping agents, and members of the public to remain vigilant when opening containers and to report any unusual animal sightings immediately to the Department.