Hesse’s hunters cull record 41,000 raccoons in one season

A staggering 41,147 raccoons were culled as their numbers spiral out of control. Experts warn this invasive species is thriving like never before.

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2026 January 7 . 7:08 AM

1 min read

In this image I can see a wolf in the foreground, trees and plants in the background of the image.... — In this image I can see a wolf in the foreground, trees and plants in the background of the image. In the right bottom corner I can see some text.

Wild Boar Hunt in Hesse: Over 41,000 Animals Killed - Hesse’s hunters cull record 41,000 raccoons in one season

Hunters in Hesse culled more than 41,000 raccoons during the 2024/2025 season, marking a significant increase from the previous year. The number of raccoons killed suggests a growing racoon population across the region. The 2024/2025 season saw 41,147 raccoons culled, a figure over 10% higher than the 36,889 recorded in 2023/2024. Hunters have noted a steady rise in raccoon killings each year. Wildlife experts attribute the increasing numbers to the expanding racoon population, with the animals thriving in Hesse's forests and urban areas. Hunters continue to closely monitor their spread. The latest data confirms a clear upward trend in racoon culls, with over 41,000 killed this season, indicating a growing population. Authorities will likely continue tracking these numbers in future hunting reports.