Effective Ways to Get Rid of Raccoons

Identifying Signs of Raccoon Activity

Before you can effectively get rid of raccoons, you need to know whether or not you have a raccoon infestation in the first place. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Noises: Raccoons are nocturnal animals, which means they’re most active at night. If you hear scratching, scurrying, or thumping noises coming from your attic or chimney during the night, it could be a sign of raccoons.

2. Tracks: Raccoons have distinctive hand-like prints with five fingers and a palm that can be easily identified. You may also see tracks in soft soil or mud outside your home.

3. Damage: Raccoons are notorious for causing damage to roofs, attics, and gardens. They may tear up shingles or siding to gain access to your home, and they can wreak havoc on your garden by digging up plants and eating your fruits and vegetables.

4. Droppings: Raccoon droppings are similar in size and shape to dog droppings, but they usually contain undigested food like berries and seeds.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards.

Prevention Techniques to Keep Raccoons Away

Preventing raccoons from entering your property in the first place is the best way to avoid a raccoon infestation. Here are some prevention techniques you can use:

1. Secure your trash cans: Raccoons are attracted to garbage, so make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and are stored in a secure area.

2. Don’t leave pet food outside: Raccoons will eat almost anything, including pet food. If you feed your pets outside, make sure to bring their food bowls inside after they’ve finished eating.

3. Seal off entry points: Raccoons can fit through surprisingly small spaces, so make sure to seal off any gaps or cracks in your home’s foundation or walls.

4. Trim trees and shrubs: Raccoons are excellent climbers and can easily access your roof or attic by climbing trees or shrubs. Keep your trees and shrubs trimmed away from your home to make it harder for raccoons to gain access.

5. Install motion-activated lights: Raccoons prefer to stay hidden in the dark, so installing motion-activated lights around your property can help deter them from entering.

By following these prevention techniques, you can make your property less attractive to raccoons and reduce the risk of a raccoon infestation.

Non-Lethal Methods for Removing Raccoons

If you have a raccoon problem, there are several non-lethal methods you can use to remove them from your property:

1. Use a repellent: There are several natural and commercial repellents available that can help keep raccoons away. Some popular options include ammonia, vinegar, and predator urine.

2. Install a one-way door: One-way doors are designed to allow raccoons to exit your property, but prevent them from re-entering. This can be an effective way to remove raccoons from your attic or chimney.

3. Use a live trap: Live traps can be an effective way to catch raccoons without harming them. Once the raccoon is trapped, you can release it in a remote area away from your property.

4. Make noise: Raccoons prefer to stay hidden and avoid loud noises, so making noise around your property can help deter them. Try playing loud music or using a loud noise maker.

It’s important to remember that raccoons are wild animals and can be dangerous if cornered or threatened. If you’re not comfortable handling a raccoon on your own, it’s best to contact a professional raccoon removal service.

Professional Raccoon Removal Services: When to Call for Help

If you’ve tried prevention techniques and non-lethal methods but still have a raccoon problem, it may be time to call in the professionals. Here are some signs that it’s time to contact a professional raccoon removal service:

1. Aggressive behavior: If a raccoon is showing signs of aggression, such as hissing, growling, or charging, it’s important to stay away and contact a professional.

2. Large infestation: If you have a large raccoon infestation, it’s best to leave removal to the professionals. They have the equipment and expertise to safely remove large numbers of raccoons.

3. Structural damage: If raccoons have caused significant damage to your home’s structure or electrical wiring, it’s important to have a professional inspect the damage and make repairs.

4. Health concerns: Raccoons can carry a variety of diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets. If you’re concerned about the health risks associated with a raccoon infestation, it’s best to contact a professional.

Professional raccoon removal services have the experience and equipment needed to safely and effectively remove raccoons from your property. They can also provide prevention tips and make repairs to prevent future infestations.

Conclusion

Raccoons can be a nuisance and a health hazard if they infest your property. However, there are several effective ways to prevent and remove raccoons from your property without harming them. By identifying signs of raccoon activity, using prevention techniques, and utilizing non-lethal methods or professional raccoon removal services, you can protect your home and family from the dangers associated with raccoon infestations. Remember to always prioritize your safety and contact professionals when necessary.