Are the raccoons safe / Do they bite
Raccoons on the island are used to boats and guides. They will gather at the shoreline to investigate. Watch from a distance. The experience is observing wild wildlife, not petting.
Rabies transmission
Rabies is a serious virus. It can be transmitted through bites or scratches. If a raccoon bites or scratches you, wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention. Rabies is preventable with prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP); do not delay. Do not attempt to catch or handle the animal. Tell your guide and get to a hospital.
Why hand-feeding is dangerous
- Rabies risk: Teeth or claws can break skin and transmit the virus.
- Habituation: Fed raccoons become dependent on human food and lose their natural fear. They become aggressive when food is not offered.
- Island ecology: Feeding disrupts their natural diet and behaviour.
- Tour safety: Aggressive raccoons can injure other guests.
How to watch them safely
Let guides position the boat or paddle craft. Raccoons will approach the water’s edge to investigate. Stay at least 10 feet away. Take photos and video from that distance. Do not throw food, do not reach out, do not corner or chase them. If a raccoon becomes aggressive or approaches your craft, tell the guide immediately.
Kids must stay with the guide
Children cannot wander the island alone. They must stay with the guide at all times. Guides know the safe zones and watch for hazards (uneven terrain, hidden water, exposed rocks).
Alligators are not a concern
Biscayne Bay is saltwater. American alligators are a freshwater species and do not normally live in saltwater. The "gators while kayaking" worry applies to Florida’s inland freshwater rivers and lakes, not this bay. You are safe from alligators on Raccoon Island.
See what to bring, best conditions, and book a tour.
Frequently asked questions
Can I touch or pet the raccoons?
No. Raccoons are wild animals. Do not touch, chase, or hand-feed them. Stay at least 10 feet away and let guides position the boat/paddle craft. Bites and scratches can carry rabies, which is preventable but requires immediate medical care.
What if a raccoon bites me?
Wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention without delay. Rabies is preventable with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), but you must get treatment fast. Tell the tour guide immediately and ask to be taken to a hospital.
Why can't I feed the raccoons?
Three reasons: (1) Rabies risk via bites/scratches. (2) Feeding makes them dependent on human food and aggressive. (3) Fed raccoons lose their natural behaviour and diet. Observe from a safe distance instead.
Are there alligators in Biscayne Bay?
No. Alligators are freshwater animals. Biscayne Bay is saltwater. Alligators live in Florida's inland lakes and rivers, not in the bay. You are safe from gators here.
Do I need to worry about stingrays or sharks?
Stingrays live in the bay but avoid boats and humans. Shuffle your feet if wading to alert them. Sharks are extremely rare in shallow bay water where tours operate. Tell the guide if you see any marine life and follow their instructions.
Is it safe for kids?
Yes, with supervision. Kids must stay with the guide at all times. No solo exploring. Guides position the boat/paddle craft so kids see raccoons safely from distance. Check age requirements for each tour.