Sweden Fears Swimming Raccoon Invasion

Sweden is fighting to keep raccoons out of the country.  The critters are a short expanse of water away, in Denmark.  The Swedes want no part of raccoons or their mischief, fearing decimation of wetlands and certain water fowl.

Raccoons of course also can carry rabies.  It looks as if the main reason they don't want them in Sweden, however, is just the fact that they're considered an invasive species, and not a part of the current ecosystem.  They've actually installed cameras at the waterway and bridge connecting Sweden and Denmark, near Skane. The approach is to shoot as many invaders as possible.

That most probably is not going to stop the migration.  Raccoons are stealthy and obviously quite prolific.  Four raccoons that were set free by Herman Goring in Germany in the 1930's have proliferated to a population of over one million.

We don't worry about them too much here in West Texas, unless they get into a garage or attic.  Then it's all out warfare.  And if you've ever experienced a raccoon in close quarters, you know they're not to be trifled with.  Maybe those Swedes should just relax and let nature take it's course.  It looks like an effort in futility.

(via TheLocal.se)