Rare Animal Found in Trash Can in Oakland During Garbage Clean-Up

The Trash Falcons of Oakland’s Lake Merritt had no shortage of unusual discoveries during their regular garbage clean-up operations. However, a recent encounter with a unique and unexpected resident of the area left them stunned.

Dana Berry, one of the dedicated volunteers who gathers every Sunday morning to remove waste and debris from the 3.4-mile lagoon, stumbled upon a surprising find during their routine cleanup. As Berry approached a cardboard trash receptacle to dispose of his collected debris, he was met with an unexpected sound. A low growling emanated from the bottom of the bin, catching his attention. Curious and concerned, he peered inside, only to be met with an astonishing sight – a baby raccoon with leucism, a rare pigmentation disorder that results in white coloration and spots in animals, similar to albinism.

Leucism is a genetic condition that affects the pigmentation of an animal’s skin, fur, or feathers, resulting in a striking and unusual appearance. While the exact number of leucistic raccoons residing around Lake Merritt remains unclear, previous sightings dating back to 2018 suggest the presence of at least one family in the vicinity. In 2021, a group of these raccoons was spotted near the lagoon, and even as recently as this month, some were seen making off with people’s leftover burritos. Yet, it remains a mystery as to which specific family this baby raccoon belongs.

Upon discovering the baby raccoon trapped at the bottom of the trashcan, Dana Berry decided to take action. He carefully lifted the little creature, understanding that it was likely terrified and in need of immediate freedom. So, Berry gently tilted the trash can, allowing the baby raccoon to escape and scamper off into a nearby tree, disappearing into the underbrush.

The Trash Falcons, a group of dedicated volunteers who have conducted 190 missions to clean up the area, were astounded by this extraordinary find. While they had rescued various animals during their clean-up efforts, including baby turtles stranded on the wrong side of the lake, discovering a trapped baby raccoon with leucism was a first for them.

Ordinarily, when a person encounters a leucistic raccoon that appears healthy, the best course of action is to leave it undisturbed. However, if the animal appears unwell or distressed, a medical check-up might be warranted. The baby raccoon that Dana Berry found appeared to have been in the bin for an extended period and seemed quite disheveled, possibly in need of care.

To find out more about the Trash Falcons, check out their Instagram!

Ahimsa by Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection

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