Which species is commonly involved in human-wildlife conflicts in urban areas?

Raccoons are often at the center of human-wildlife conflicts in urban areas due to their adaptability to urban environments and their opportunistic feeding behavior. They are known to rummage through garbage, raid bird feeders, and invade attics or sheds in search of food or shelter. This can lead to damages in property and health concerns, particularly since raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies.

Urban areas provide raccoons with abundant resources, such as easily accessible trash cans and pet food, which increases their interaction with human populations. Their nocturnal habits can also lead to surprising encounters with residents. While other species such as foxes, rabbits, and deer may also cause issues in urban settings, raccoons are significantly more engaged with human waste and structures, making them a primary concern in wildlife management and urban planning contexts.