Raccoon dogs spotted in Netherlands

It seems that the raccoon dog settled in the north and east of the Netherlands. Public health service RIVM calls on residents to report sightings of the animal, De Stentor reports.

According to the RIVM, there is evidence that the raccoon dog babies were born in the country. A dead raccoon dog was recently spotted in Overijssel. Now that harvest in the country is in full swing, the animals will be more active.

Raccoon dogs are known carriers of fox tapeworm. The eggs can cause liver damage in humans. The RIVM therefore asks that people report it if they spot a dead ones. Reports can be made to the Dutch Wildlife Health center.

The raccoon dog originates from Asia and gets is name from its resemblance to the raccoon. It is an omnivore that will eat anything from seeds to small animals to carrion.