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Raccoons are nocturnal, which means they sleep during the day. In more natural settings, they usually find a high-up spot in a tree. In cities and suburbs, they may choose a rooftop, window ledge, or balcony instead.

Unless there are visible signs of illness or injury, it is usually best to monitor overnight. The raccoon may leave the balcony or roof and never come back. If the raccoon leaves overnight and comes back in the morning, try leaving a light on nearby, tuning a loud radio to a talk station, or even banging a pot and yelling at the raccoon to go away.

If the raccoon is visibly injured, or if it stays in the same spot on the roof or balcony for over 24hrs, including overnight, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for advice.

Raccoon on Ledge