Should I be concerned with handling raccoons?

By Grant Woods,

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Question
Hi Dr. Grant,

What precautions do I need to take and what level of concern should I have as a beginner trapper with regard to raccoons carrying worms? Should I be concerned handling, skinning or eating them? I plan to wear gloves.

I hope your father is doing well.

Thanks,

Kevin
Charlotte NC

Kevin,

I don’t believe you should have any more concern with dressing a raccoon than a deer or squirrel.  I use common precautions such as wearing gloves, using a different knife for skinning, etc., as I don’t for preparing meat to be consumed.  

Enjoy creation,

grant

November 27, 2015