# Invasive raccoon presence in Europe > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/invasive-raccoon-presence-in-europe > Updated: 2026-10-28T06:44:26.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. In Germany, Tierpark Nordhorn has opened the historic Heckmann Barn, which serves as an educational hub featuring ten raccoons. The facility aims to address the challenges posed by these North American animals, which have been listed as an invasive alien species by the European Union since 2016 due to their impact on local habitats. In Poland, research from the University of Warsaw indicates that raccoon populations are thriving in the Ujście Warty National Park. A study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Biology identified 14 breeding sites and noted that the raccoons are occupying nesting sites intended for ducks. This predation has contributed to low breeding success for species such as mute swans and goosanders. Researchers noted that while native predators can be deterred by certain protections, raccoons remain effective climbers, suggesting that slippery plexiglass trunk covers may be necessary to protect bird nesting sites. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-28: Invasive raccoons threaten bird populations in Ujście Warty National Park Invasive North American raccoons are occupying nesting boxes and hollows in Poland's Ujście Warty National Park, threatening local bird populations and requiring new protective measures. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/invasive-raccoons-threaten-bird-populations-in-ujcie-warty-national-park ### 2026-10-12: Tierpark Nordhorn opens historic barn featuring invasive raccoons Tierpark Nordhorn has fully opened the historic Heckmann Barn, featuring a new enclosure for ten raccoons to educate visitors about the impact of invasive species in Germany. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tierpark-nordhorn-opens-historic-barn-featuring-invasive-raccoons --- Cite as: Invasive raccoon presence in Europe. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/invasive-raccoon-presence-in-europe