Common Signs of Raccoon Infestation and How to Address Them
Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable creatures that can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are known for their ability to cause damage, create messes, and spread diseases. If you suspect a raccoon infestation on your property, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. In this article, we will discuss some common signs of raccoon infestation and provide tips on how to address them effectively.
Identifying Raccoon Infestation
Raccoons are primarily nocturnal animals, so their activities may go unnoticed until the infestation becomes severe. However, there are several signs that can indicate the presence of raccoons on your property.
Noises: Raccoons are known for their vocalizations, including chattering, growling, hissing, and high-pitched screams. If you hear these noises coming from your attic or chimney during nighttime hours, it is likely that raccoons have taken up residence.
Damage: Raccoons have strong jaws and sharp claws that enable them to cause significant damage to structures. Look for signs of torn shingles or roof vents, damaged insulation in the attic or crawl spaces, and holes in walls or screens.
Tracks: Raccoon footprints can be easily identified by their distinctive hand-like shape with five toes on both front and hind feet. Look for tracks around trash cans or near potential entry points like fences or trees.
Fecal Matter: Raccoon droppings resemble small dog droppings but with a distinct tubular shape and dark coloration. You may find these droppings near food sources such as trash cans or pet feeding areas.
Preventing Raccoon Infestation
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping raccoons away from your property. By taking a few proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of raccoon infestation.
Secure Trash Cans: Raccoons are attracted to easily accessible food sources, so make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids or are stored in secure containers. Consider using bungee cords or heavy objects to keep lids in place.
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your property for any potential entry points such as gaps in the roof, broken vents, or uncapped chimneys. Seal these openings with sturdy materials like steel mesh or hardware cloth to prevent raccoons from entering.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Raccoons are skilled climbers and can use overhanging branches or shrubs as a means of accessing your property. Trim trees away from your house and remove any branches that could provide easy access.
Install Motion-Activated Lights: Raccoons prefer dark and secluded areas, so installing motion-activated lights around your property can deter them from approaching.
Professional Raccoon Removal Services
If you’re dealing with a severe raccoon infestation or if your efforts to address the issue have been unsuccessful, it’s best to seek professional help from a reputable raccoon removal service.
Expertise and Experience: Professional raccoon removal services have the knowledge and experience to safely handle raccoon infestations without causing harm to the animals or further damage to your property.
Humane Removal Techniques: Reputable companies use humane trapping methods that ensure the safe capture and relocation of raccoons away from your property.
Repairs and Exclusion: In addition to removing raccoons, professional services can also identify potential entry points and make necessary repairs to prevent future infestations.
Disease Prevention: Raccoons carry various diseases that can be transmitted to humans through contact with their urine, feces, or saliva. Professional raccoon removal services take necessary precautions to protect your health and safety during the removal process.
Conclusion
Raccoon infestations can cause significant damage and pose health risks to both humans and pets. By recognizing the signs of raccoon infestation early on and taking preventive measures, you can minimize the chances of raccoons invading your property. If you find yourself dealing with a severe infestation, it’s best to contact a professional raccoon removal service for safe and effective resolution. Remember, addressing the issue promptly will help protect your property and ensure the well-being of everyone in your household.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
