05/17/2026
Dear Sarasota Community,
As has been shared recently on social media, a dedicated group of individuals has expressed their concern regarding Aviva’s recent decision to relocate several raccoons who have become a nuisance on our campus. The decision was made to work with a local pest control company who is licensed by the state of Florida to safely and humanely relocate the animals. This licensure is given to only those organizations who can conduct relocation under the strictest of guidelines.
The decision to relocate the raccoons was made after extensive efforts by our team to find ways to safely coexist with the animals. This included securing trash bins, adding additional lights, and other proven tactics. However, much of these efforts were in vain and the raccoons continued to cause distress amongst residents and staff.
For over 30 years, Aviva has proudly served as a steward of the 27-acre campus which we sit on. Maintaining a close relationship with our wild neighbors has always been a top priority of ours and we have made every effort to continue this tradition. It is for that reason why so much of our campus has been formally labeled protected wetlands so that the turtles, birds, rodents, snakes, and even the occasional alligator can enjoy a peaceful life alongside our residents.
After discussing the concerns with various members of the Sarasota community and our own residents, we understand the distress that our decision has caused these passionate individuals. It is for that reason why our team has made the decision to suspend our relocation efforts effective tomorrow, May 18th. Our team will continue to work on campus to find ways to deter the raccoons and keep them away from residents and staff.
With that being said, it is Aviva’s responsibility to protect the health and wellbeing of nearly 300 residents and 200 staff members. That responsibility requires us to protect them from all manner of threats including the potential of dangerous diseases such as rabies. And our responsibility to our residents and staff supersedes our responsibility to local wildlife, particularly those who carry the potential of harmful diseases. Should it be determined in the future that the raccoon population poses a threat to any member of our campus, Aviva will take the necessary measures to relocate the animals for the health and safety of all who call our campus home including the diverse wildlife.
We thank those who took the appropriate steps to speak with our team and share their concerns. Our team is dedicated to always learning and those who educated us in a collaborative manner have been a huge help and represent the best in wildlife advocates.
Thank you,
The Aviva Leadership Team
