Raccoons are prevalent throughout the United States and Canada. These pests can be quite a nuisance. Read on to learn more about raccoons.
How do you know if you have a raccoon problem?
The telltale sign that you have a raccoon problem is that your trash can is repeatedly knocked over and its contents are scattered across your lawn. Raccoons are nocturnal and often rummage through trash at night looking for food. You may also hear a low growling noise coming from your attic or see signs of raccoon feces.
Does raccoon poop look like dog poop?
Raccoon feces, sometimes called scat, looks very similar to dog feces. It has a tendency to be drier and contains bits of twigs, seeds, and hair. If you find some feces, be careful not to touch it or inhale near it as raccoon scat is known to have a high concentration of parasites.
Are raccoons dangerous?
Raccoons are known to be dangerous, especially when cornered. In fact, many cities have a growing raccoon and rodent problem since the pandemic. As there is less and less restaurant waste in downtown areas, they are branching out and getting more aggressive.
How does a pest control company get rid of raccoons?
Most pest control services use live traps to capture raccoons. This is simply a long, metal cage that has a smelly treat at one end to lure the raccoon inside. Once inside the trap, the door closes and the raccoon can no longer escape.
How the raccoon is disposed of after leaving with the pest control company depends on your state and local guidelines. Many raccoons are simply transported to less-populated areas where they will no longer be a nuisance. Some municipalities, however, require that the animal be humanely put down due to overpopulation and disease.
What scent will keep raccoons away?
Raccoons have a strong sense of smell. While there is no guarantee of success, many homeowners try to drive raccoons away with sprays made from hot peppers, garlic, and even mothballs.
How can you prevent raccoons from coming back?
In the case of raccoons, preventing access is your best bet. Seal off all possible entry points to your attic and chimney and move your trash cans to a more secure location, like inside your garage. If space is tight, invest in a garbage can with a locking lid that a raccoon cannot open.
Whether a raccoon family has moved into your attic or keeps knocking your trash can over in search of his dinner, call in a pest control service as soon as possible to deal with the problem.
Share