How to Get Rid of Raccoons?

Raccoons are clever and resourceful animals, but their presence can cause various issues, from rummaging through trash to damaging property. If raccoons have become a nuisance in your area, there are humane and effective methods to deter them and prevent their return. This article explores strategies to get rid of raccoons safely and responsibly.

1. Understand Raccoon Behavior

2. Secure Trash and Food Sources

3. Remove Shelter Opportunities

4. Use Deterrents

5. Use Humane Traps (If Necessary)

6. Prevent Future Infestations

7. When to Call a Professional

8. Legal Considerations

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1. Understand Raccoon Behavior

Before implementing deterrent methods, it’s helpful to understand why raccoons are drawn to your property:

• Food Sources: Raccoons are omnivorous scavengers with a keen sense of smell. Unsecured garbage, pet food, or garden produce can attract them.
• Shelter: They seek safe spaces for resting and raising their young, such as attics, chimneys, sheds, or woodpiles.
• Water Access: Birdbaths, fountains, and swimming pools can provide hydration and a place to rinse their food.

Identifying the specific attractants on your property is key to addressing the problem effectively.

2. Secure Trash and Food Sources

Raccoons are notorious for scavenging trash. To prevent this:

• Use Raccoon-Proof Bins: Invest in sturdy garbage cans with locking lids or bungee cords to keep lids secure.
• Limit Access to Food: Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outside overnight. Store food in sealed containers.
• Manage Compost Piles: Keep compost bins covered and avoid adding meat or dairy, which emit strong odors.
• Clean Up Fallen Fruit: Regularly pick up fruits and vegetables from gardens to reduce the lure of ripe produce.

3. Remove Shelter Opportunities

Raccoons seek out quiet, enclosed spaces to nest. To deter them:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your property for gaps, holes, or openings in walls, roofs, or foundations. Use durable materials like steel mesh or hardware cloth to block these entryways.
• Install Chimney Caps: Prevent raccoons from entering through chimneys by installing secure caps.
• Clear Outdoor Clutter: Remove piles of wood, brush, or debris where raccoons might hide.
• Trim Tree Branches: Cut back branches that overhang roofs, as raccoons can use them to access your home.

4. Use Deterrents

Several deterrents can discourage raccoons from lingering on your property:

• Lights and Noise: Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers to startle raccoons. A radio playing near potential nesting sites can also deter them.
• Scents: Raccoons dislike strong odors such as ammonia, vinegar, or predator urine. Soak rags in these substances and place them near raccoon activity areas. Reapply regularly.
• Fencing: Install fences around gardens or other attractive areas. Ensure the fence is at least four feet high with a top section angled outward to prevent climbing.

5. Use Humane Traps (If Necessary)

If raccoons persist, live trapping is an option. However, it’s essential to follow local wildlife regulations, as raccoons may be protected in some areas. Here’s how to proceed:

• Choose the Right Trap: Select a humane live trap large enough for a raccoon.
• Bait the Trap: Use appealing baits such as marshmallows, peanut butter, or canned tuna.
• Check Traps Frequently: Monitor traps at least twice daily to ensure the animal doesn’t suffer unduly.
• Relocate Responsibly: Relocate the raccoon at least 10 miles away from your property, in accordance with local laws.

It’s often best to contact a professional wildlife removal service to handle trapping and relocation.

6. Prevent Future Infestations

After addressing the immediate problem, take steps to ensure raccoons don’t return:

• Maintain Property Cleanliness: Regularly clean outdoor areas to remove food residue and odors.
• Inspect and Repair: Periodically check for new openings or vulnerabilities around your home.
• Keep Pets Indoors: Feed pets indoors and bring their water dishes inside at night.
• Educate Neighbors: Work with neighbors to manage attractants, as raccoons can range across multiple properties.

7. When to Call a Professional

In some cases, professional help may be necessary:

• Infestations: If raccoons have nested in your attic, walls, or chimney, wildlife control experts can safely remove them.
• Health Concerns: Raccoons can carry diseases like rabies and leptospirosis. If you encounter a sick or injured raccoon, contact animal control or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
• Persistent Problems: If raccoons continue to return despite your efforts, a professional can assess the situation and recommend effective solutions.

8. Legal Considerations

Raccoons are protected wildlife in many areas, and harming them or relocating them without a permit can be illegal. Always check local laws before taking action, and opt for humane methods whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What smells do raccoons dislike?
A: Raccoons are deterred by strong odors like ammonia, vinegar, and predator urine. These scents can help keep raccoons away but may also affect pets and other wildlife.

Q: Are raccoons dangerous to humans?
A: While raccoons are not typically aggressive, they can become defensive if cornered. They may carry diseases like rabies and leptospirosis, so avoid direct contact.

Q: How can I keep raccoons out of my attic?
A: To prevent raccoons from accessing your attic, seal all entry points with durable materials, install chimney caps, and ensure vents are covered securely.

Q: What is the best bait for raccoon traps?
A: Effective baits include marshmallows, peanut butter, canned tuna, or other sweet-smelling and protein-rich foods.

Q: What should I do if I find a raccoon in my yard?
A: Give the raccoon space to leave on its own. Avoid feeding or approaching it. If it appears sick or injured, contact local wildlife authorities or a professional.