I. Introduction
Raccoons are cute but can cause extensive damage to your property. These omnivorous animals have a notorious reputation for scavenging through outdoor garbage cans, gardens, and even breaking into people’s homes in search of food or shelter. In addition to the damage, raccoons can also pose health risks to humans and pets as they are known carriers of diseases.
This article aims to provide a step-by-step guide on how to get rid of raccoons safely and humanely. From identifying the problem to implementing preventative measures, this guide covers it all. By the end, readers will be equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to successfully deal with raccoons on their property.
II. Step-by-Step Guide
The following step-by-step guide outlines the process of getting rid of raccoons:
1. How to identify if raccoons are the problem
The first step in dealing with any wildlife problem is identifying the source of the issue. Signs of raccoon activity include overturned trash cans, damaged gardens, and visible paw prints. Listen for noises such as scratching or chirping in your attic or walls, which may indicate that raccoons have found a way inside your home.
2. How to properly remove any outdoor food sources
Raccoons are driven by hunger, so removing any food sources near your home can discourage them from coming back. Secure your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and store them in a sealed shed or garage. Also, remove any pet food or fallen fruit from the ground around your property.
3. Tips for sealing any entry-points into your home or property
Preventing raccoons from entering your home is crucial for avoiding any potential damage or harm. Check for any openings in your walls, roof, or foundation and seal them off with caulk or hardware cloth. Install chimney caps and cover any vents with mesh screens as raccoons can gain access through openings as small as 4 inches in diameter.
4. The correct way to use traps and/or deterrents
Trapping raccoons can be an effective way to remove them from your property, but it’s important to do so in a safe and humane way. Follow your state’s regulations regarding trapping and relocating wildlife. Use a trap size appropriate for raccoons and bait it with a food they can’t resist like marshmallows or peanut butter. If using deterrents, try using motion-activated devices or spraying a homemade mixture of vinegar and water to detour these creatures from their attempted entry.
5. Tips for safe and humane raccoon removal
Once you have successfully trapped a raccoon, carefully transport it to a safe relocation site at least 10 miles away from your property. Wear thick gloves when handling the trap as raccoons can be aggressive and carry diseases.
III. Personal Experience
Dealing with raccoons can be a stressful situation, but it’s not impossible. Last summer, I had a raccoon make its home in my chimney. At first, I tried using deterrents, but the raccoon kept coming back. Eventually, I had to call a professional wildlife removal service. They set up a one-way door, which allowed the raccoon to exit the chimney but not return. Thankfully, the raccoon found a new home, and my family was safe from harm.
IV. Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Infestations
Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding future raccoon infestations. Along with removing any outdoor food sources and sealing entry-points, installing motion-activated lights and loud music around your property can also deter raccoons from entering. Keep tree limbs trimmed away from your roof and gutters so that raccoons can’t access your roof. Repair any leaks or damages immediately as raccoons have been known to enter through damaged walls, make sure that the attics are well-insulated and copper mesh is placed under the tiles or shingles to prevent their claws from penetrating into the roof.
V. Review of Traps and Deterrents
There are several methods and products available to get rid of raccoons. Live traps are widely used, alongside electric fencing, and repellents. When it comes to live traps, Havahart has a great selection of humane traps that can capture raccoons without harming them. Electric fencing is an effective deterrent for raccoons and can be found at most hardware stores. There are even specialized raccoon repellents available that use predator urine to scare raccoons away. This article however insists on safe and humane removal methods due to negative views on repellents and suggestions to do everything possible to avoid injuring these animals especially when they are to be relocated.
VI. Q&A Style
Here are some frequently asked questions related to getting rid of raccoons:
1. Is it legal to trap and relocate raccoons?
Trapping and relocating raccoons is legal in most states, but it’s important to check your state’s regulations before attempting to do so. Keep in mind that relocating animals should be done safely, in case of possible harm to the animal and to avoid potential spread of diseases.
2. What should I do if I find baby raccoons?
If you find baby raccoons, do not touch them as they still need their mother to survive and separating them can cause harm. Wait and observe from a safe distance to see if the mother will return. If after 1-2 hours the mother still hasn’t returned, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
3. Can raccoons carry diseases?
Yes, raccoons are known carriers of diseases such as leptospirosis, rabies, and distemper. It’s essential to wear gloves when handling raccoons and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
VII. Comparison Article
When comparing different techniques, live trapping is more humane compared to other techniques such as poisoning. Poisoning raccoons can be hazardous to other wildlife and pets and sometimes may cause a prolonged and painful death. However, even with the use of traps, it is important to make sure relocation is done as humanely as possible.
VIII. Infographic
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IX. Conclusion
Raccoons can be a nuisance, but with proper knowledge and preparation, they can be effectively dealt with. The first step is to identify the problem, remove any food sources, and seal off all entry points. Using traps or deterrents can also help with raccoon removal, but it’s essential to do so in a safe and humane way. Lastly, taking preventative measures can help avoid future infestations. By following these tips and utilizing the resources available, raccoon problems can be a thing of the past.
