They came to me just after their eyes opened and everything was quite new to them, as it was to me. I may not have been their typical mother, but they accepted me anyway. The newness carried over to me as well, learning to bottle feed raccoons that are not used to getting an artificial plastic bottle, can be difficult at times. Watching them grow and learn provided me with a warm and nurturing feeling. I really became their mother when I experienced the worry of hearing my little Luna coughing in the middle of the night, or when Sage became uninterested in taking the bottle. The nervousness I felt when they practiced climbing the pear tree, especially Tommy when he climbed all the way to the top, was phenomenal. I was also excited when Lily started eating solid foods for the first time. But I cannot describe the love I felt when my raccoon kits would call out to me when they heard my voice. They could tell the difference between me, their mother and some other staff members. Their curiosity and ability to manipulate objects with their hands is so human. How proud I was of each of them as they explored, practiced climbing trees and learned how to catch a fish. I look forward to the day when they are released into the wild and can continue life as they are meant to live – free.

As time went on my family grew, from three to four and eventually five. Minnie, a little female about seven weeks old came to join my family after having a traumatic experience. She showed signs of trauma, she was quite scared, very emaciated and unhappy. She was quite a challenge. Figuring out how to work with her, how to ease her into the group that had already bonded was difficult. She definitely taught me a lot. Just being able to watch and observe her to see how she views and perceives obstacles and objects differently than my other kits was truly an incredible experience, unlike any other.

Tommy my fifth addition, came in as a single raccoon. He seemed not to know that he was a raccoon. All animals learn from watching and imitating one another, so it took a little while before he started playing, exploring and becoming curious. Raccoons are very playful animals and have special bonds with their mothers and siblings. It took a couple of days before he truly fit in with the others, but when he did, it was like they were all long lost buddies.

I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to work with such incredible creatures. The experience gave me the chance to see life through my raccoon’s eyes. They allowed me to be part of their world. A world in which we all share. Humans aren’t the only species on earth, although we sometimes act like it. So much can be learned from animal behaviour, which in turn can be applied to human interaction. Sharing the land with wildlife means having some consideration for the environment, the creatures and the nature around us. There are boundaries to everything in life. I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life than working with animals, especially with wildlife. Wildlife is the link to our past as well as the link to our future. In closing I want thank everyone involved with Critter Care for allowing me the opportunity to be part of these animals lives, as well as yours. You are all very special and caring people. I am truly lucky to be a part of your organization.

Suzanne