St. Matthews, KY — We recently performed a cleanup of a “raccoon latrine” (a communal toilet area) found near a children’s play set in a St. Matthews backyard.

Raccoon feces often contain Baylisascaris procyonis eggs. These microscopic eggs are extremely resilient and can remain infectious in soil for years. Ingestion by children can cause serious neurological damage.

If you find piles of tubular droppings on logs, stumps, or at the base of trees in your yard, do not let children play in that area. Professional soil removal or torching may be required to make the area safe.

What is a Raccoon Latrine?

Unlike dogs or other animals that defecate randomly, raccoons are creatures of habit. They establish specific sites, called latrines, where they repeatedly deposit waste. Multiple raccoons may use the same latrine.

Common locations for latrines include:

• Tree stumps and bases of large trees.
• Raised surfaces like decks, patios, and flat roofs.
• Attic insulation (if they are inside).
• Mulch beds and sandboxes.

The Danger: Raccoon Roundworm

The primary health risk is Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis). The adult worms live in the raccoon’s intestine and shed millions of eggs in the feces.

These eggs are encased in a hard, sticky shell that makes them incredibly durable. They can survive in the soil for years, withstanding freezing temperatures and common disinfectants like bleach.

Human Infection: Humans (especially young children) can become infected by accidentally ingesting the eggs (e.g., getting dirt on their hands and putting hands in their mouths). Once ingested, the larvae hatch and migrate aggressively through the body, attacking the eyes, organs, and brain. This can lead to blindness, coma, or death.

What to Do If You Find a Latrine

1. Keep Away: Keep children and pets away from the area immediately.
2. Do Not Sweep: Do not use a broom or leaf blower. This can send the microscopic eggs airborne, where they can be inhaled.
3. Wear PPE: If you must clean it, wear disposable gloves, booties, and an N95 respirator.
4. Safe Removal: Carefully shovel the waste and the top few inches of contaminated soil into a heavy-duty plastic bag.
5. Heat Treatment: Since chemicals don’t kill the eggs, heat is the best method. Boiling water or a propane torch (flame) can be used on non-flammable surfaces to destroy the eggs.

For latrines in play areas or attics, we strongly recommend professional remediation. We have the equipment to safely remove the biohazard and decontaminate the area.