Urban wildlife is a treat in the yard! These raccoons are REALLY cute! Boulder Racoon Love! Remember When It Was Warm?

We counted 3 kits, with only two at a time being visible. That challenged our count of “three.”  Then we saw three at once and were sure. Until we saw four. At once. THEN we saw five at once along with “Mom.” THEN we saw SIX plus Mom. At the same time. In amazement we consulted with AI and learned that a typical litter included five to seven kits! So we were shockingly average! Catching all six at once, close enough together to get the picture required luck and patience. And luck.

Backyard raccoons in Boulder are fascinating creatures that often live in surprising proximity to humans. These nocturnal mammals are highly adaptable, which makes Boulder’s suburban areas and natural spaces perfect habitats. Known for their dexterous paws and intelligence, raccoons are skilled problem-solvers, capable of opening trash cans, latches, and even pet doors. This resourcefulness sometimes causes conflict with residents, particularly when food sources like unsecured garbage, pet food, or compost bins are readily available.

Raccoons play an essential role in the ecosystem, acting as both predator and prey. They help control populations of insects and small rodents while also being a food source for larger predators like mountain lions and coyotes, which are common in Boulder’s foothills. However, raccoons are not without risks—they can carry diseases like rabies and distemper, making it important to observe them from a safe distance and avoid direct interaction.

To coexist peacefully, Boulderites can take simple precautions, such as securing trash bins with animal-proof lids and bringing pet food indoors at night. If you’re lucky enough to spot a raccoon family exploring your backyard, it’s a reminder of the diverse wildlife that thrives in Boulder, even amidst human habitation. These masked bandits are a charming, if occasionally mischievous, part of the local scene.

Lenny Lensworth Frieling

Shared Knowledge Is Power!

Leonard Frieling Pen Of Justice

• Multi-published and syndicated blogger and author.
• University lectures at University. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels. Numerous lectures for the NORML Legal Committee
• Former Judge
• Media work, including episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
• Life Member, NORML Legal Committee, Distinguished Counsel Circle.
• Photographer of the Year, AboutBoulder 2023
• First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
• Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
• Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
• Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
• Board Member Emeritus, Colorado NORML, and prior chair during legalization, as well as pre and post legalization
• Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
• Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
• Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
• http://www.Lfrieling.com