What sort of animal could this be?

Question

I live in the greater Pittsburgh area (Western Pennsylvania) and there is roadwork in front of my house. I was told there was a den of some sort (a rather large one) in the wooded area beside my house. There is some sort of animal that breaks into our trash, but I don't know if it's the same 'culprit' or not... What sort of animals would have a large den, in a small wooded area of a suburb? (woods behind, and on both sides of my house, but I live in a well populated area)

Answer 1

Bears, mountain lions, wolves, elephants .... well. maybe not all of them. Usually, when something gets into the garbage can around us (SE PA) it's a raccoon, skunk, crow, or wandering dog. The raccoons and skunks make dens. Look for tracks. That might give you a better idea.

Answer 2

Dont rule out raccoon just yet. It could be just simply that. Or even a Possum. If youre the sci fi believing type, then it just might be the CHUPA CABRA!!!!!!!!

Answer 3

Raccoons are notorious trash raiders. So are possums. You also have bears in Pennsylvania, and they ALSO like dumpster diving. ALL of these guys LOVE populated areas for just that reason.

Answer 4

Definitely sounds like a raccoon to me.  Raccoons are notorious for getting into garbage, and adjust very easily to living around humans.

Answer 5

if you have a video camera, set it up at night where it has a veiw of your trash cans, maybe put it inside a window . and the next morning, look at the video and it will probably see the culprit in it. if that doesnt work, put out toast crusts and do the same

Answer 6

a fox probably, or coyote