Wildlife Removal Company

Raccoons: A Hidden Threat to Homeowners

Raccoons may look like adorable masked bandits, but don’t be fooled—these nocturnal critters can cause serious problems for homeowners. Known for their intelligence and dexterity, raccoons are notorious for breaking into attics, rummaging through trash, and carrying dangerous diseases. If left unchecked, a raccoon infestation can lead to costly damage, health risks, and a never-ending battle to keep them away.

Property Damage: Uninvited House Guests

Raccoons are experts at finding their way into warm, sheltered spaces—your attic, garage, or crawl space being prime real estate. They can pry open vents, tear through shingles, and squeeze through small openings to gain entry. Once inside, they can rip apart insulation, chew on electrical wiring (creating a fire hazard), and destroy ductwork. Their feces and urine not only create a foul odor but can also lead to water damage and mold growth.

Outdoor damage is another concern. Raccoons love digging up lawns in search of grubs, tearing apart gardens, and even dismantling roof shingles or soffits to create nesting spots. Their strong claws and sharp teeth make them highly destructive, often requiring expensive repairs to restore your property.

Health Hazards: More Than Just a Nuisance

One of the biggest dangers raccoons pose is the spread of diseases. They are known carriers of rabies, which can be deadly to both humans and pets. A raccoon acting unusually aggressive, disoriented, or foaming at the mouth could be infected, and even a minor scratch or bite requires immediate medical attention.

Additionally, raccoons carry roundworm, a parasite that spreads through their feces. Inhaling airborne roundworm eggs can lead to serious infections in humans, affecting the brain, liver, and lungs. Their droppings may also contain leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can cause flu-like symptoms, kidney failure, or worse.

Trash and Food Raids: A Messy Problem

If you’ve ever woken up to garbage strewn across your yard, chances are a raccoon was the culprit. These animals have a keen sense of smell and incredible problem-solving skills, allowing them to open trash can lids with ease. Once they find a reliable food source, they’ll return night after night, creating an ongoing mess and attracting even more unwanted wildlife.

Pet food left outdoors, bird feeders, and compost bins can also lure raccoons onto your property. If they associate your home with easy meals, they’ll stick around—and potentially start nesting nearby.

Legal Considerations: Protected but Problematic

In many states, raccoons are protected wildlife, meaning it’s illegal to trap or relocate them without proper permits. This makes handling an infestation tricky, as improper removal methods can result in fines or legal issues. Additionally, raccoons can become aggressive when cornered, making DIY removal a dangerous task.

How to Keep Raccoons Away

Preventing a raccoon problem starts with making your home and yard less appealing. Here are some effective strategies:

• Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids or bungee cords to prevent easy access.
• Seal entry points by inspecting your roof, vents, and crawl spaces for gaps or openings.
• Remove food sources by bringing pet food inside at night and using bird feeders designed to deter raccoons.
• Trim tree branches near your home to prevent raccoons from using them as a bridge to your roof.
• Use deterrents such as motion-activated lights or sprinklers to scare them away.

Conclusion

While raccoons may seem harmless, they pose serious risks to homeowners, from structural damage to health hazards. If you suspect raccoons have taken up residence on your property, it’s crucial to address the problem quickly. Professional wildlife control services can safely and legally remove raccoons, helping you protect your home and family from these clever but troublesome intruders.