Raccoon “Captured And Humanely Euthanized”

A raccoon was “humanely euthanized” after being found in a container, officials have confirmed, adding that “there was no evidence indicating the animal was purposely smuggled into the island.”

A video of a raccoon was being circulated and Bernews asked the Government for comment, and a spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Home Affairs can advise that a raccoon did find its way onto a container destined for Lindo’s Grocery Store in Bermuda.

“Some members of the public will be aware that raccoons are known as possible carriers of rabies. Also, the option of deportation is not practical as rescue organizations willing to receive the raccoon would have to undergo the lengthy USDA import permit application process. Furthermore, the importation of wildlife with no history for non-scientific purposes is unwise and unlikely to be approved.

“The Ministry can also advise that the animal did not come into contact with food items as there were none inside the container. The container held only non-perishable, dry goods, which were boxed and shipped to Bermuda for sale.

“We were fortunate as the animal was kept contained within the container and later captured and humanely euthanized. There was no evidence indicating the animal was purposely smuggled into the island.”

This is not the first time a raccoon has made its way to the island, a similar incident happened back in 2017 when another raccoon was found in a shipping container.

Screenshot from a video of what is said to be the raccoon being circulated

#Animal #Raccoon

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