The short answer is that they don't really jump very well, but they are amazing climbers, so they can easily get onto any part of a house, such as the roof, and they can easily climb most fences. But they don't actually jump over.
Whether you live in the woodlands or your house is situated near a park and a flowing stream, you are likely to get visits from raccoons in the very least. The persistent creatures will also try to move in with you especially when they discover a food source in your yard. Raccoons are bold animals, though not particularly confrontational. They will visit your yard over and over again, and have been known to take up residence in hidden spots, one of which is in the attic. Yes, right at the top of your house.
Raccoons are very agile animals and can jump, only they may not jump as high as feline animals would. It is easier for them to jump horizontally and to jump down from heights. But they get by, in between their jumping range and their claws, they can pretty much scale most houses and fences. The English word “raccoon” is an adaptation of a native Powhatan word meaning – animal that scratches with its hands. They usually have a very good grip and are excellent climbers.
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How raccoons get to the roof of a house to access its attic or chimney has baffled many a homeowner. The raccoon is a very good climber and can go down a tree backwards or face first, but can they climb concrete as well?
There have been reports of raccoons scaling vertical walls and fences. They are fairly good at jumping, but it is more common for them to do this by climbing at least half way. They can ascend the corners of most houses, and easily climb up and down downspouts.
Physical adaptations that help the raccoon’s climbing ability include the shape of its limbs. The two hind legs are longer than the front legs, making it look hunched while running or climbing. And it has black paws that bear 5 toes each; the clawed toes on its front paws are very nimble and can grasp ledges or crevices in the wall quite well. Its hands bears a resemblance to that of a monkey. Its long and opposable claws also help to achieve a firm grasp on the structures as it climbs.
The most common sources of complaints about raccoons seemingly scaling fences and houses include chicken coops and poultry farms. Summarily, it is safe to believe that if there is food to be eaten on the other side of the fence, a raccoon will find a way to get over it.
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