Raccoons Threaten Netherlands

Raccoons are multiplying in southern Limburg, Netherlands, threatening native wildlife and human health — and officials warn without urgent, coordinated action, the entire country could face a full-blown infestation. Though current numbers are lower than feared, over 400 have been removed since 2019, and experts fear a rebound if efforts stall. With Germany already hosting over 1.5 million raccoons and Belgium tens of thousands, Limburg is pushing for a national eradication deadline by 2027. The province is ramping up hunting, launching cross-border pilot projects with Belgium and Germany, and pledging 750,000 euros for control until 2030 — all while urging citizens to report sightings. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/15d8912fd31fcc05