Raccoons are intelligent, curious creatures, but when they make themselves at home in or around your property, they can become a nuisance. Homeowners in Kaw Valley, where raccoon populations thrive, often face the challenge of keeping these nocturnal invaders at bay. Whether you're dealing with a raccoon in your attic, garden, or trash bins, it’s essential to take the proper steps to prevent damage and protect your home.
At Critter Control of Kaw Valley, we specialize in humane wildlife removal and prevention. If you're dealing with raccoons, here are some expert tips to help keep them out of your home and yard:
Inspect Your Home for Entry Points
Raccoons are expert climbers and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Check your attic, roof, vents, and chimney for any gaps or holes that could allow raccoons to enter. Common entry points include:
- Damaged roof vents or loose shingles
- Chimney caps that are missing or damaged
- Gaps around attic windows
- Openings around plumbing and electrical entries
If you find any potential entry points, seal them off as soon as possible with sturdy materials like steel mesh or hardware cloth.
Secure Trash Cans and Outdoor Garbage
Raccoons are notorious for rummaging through trash in search of food. Secure your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, or better yet, store them in a shed or garage overnight. Raccoons are particularly active during the night, so avoid leaving food scraps or pet food outside.
Trim Trees and Shrubs Near Your Home
Raccoons are skilled climbers, and overhanging tree branches can provide an easy pathway to your roof or attic. Trim back any trees, shrubs, or vines that are within 6–8 feet of your house, particularly those that could allow raccoons to gain access to your roof or attic.
Install Raccoon-Proof Fencing
If you're dealing with raccoons in your garden or vegetable patch, consider installing a raccoon-proof fence. The fence should be at least 3–4 feet high, and buried 1–2 feet into the ground to prevent digging. A solid fence with no gaps or openings will make it difficult for raccoons to enter.
Use Raccoon Deterrents
There are several humane ways to discourage raccoons from visiting your property. Here are some common deterrents:
- Motion-activated lights or sprinklers: Raccoons are nocturnal and prefer dark, quiet areas. Bright lights or a sudden burst of water will likely make them feel uncomfortable and encourage them to leave.
- Predator scents: Raccoons are wary of predators such as dogs or coyotes. You can place a dog’s scent or predator urine (available at many garden centers) around your home to discourage them.
- Noise deterrents: Raccoons are sensitive to loud sounds. A radio left on at night or wind chimes can make the area less inviting for these critters.
Call a Professional for Removal
If you've discovered a raccoon in your attic or are dealing with a persistent problem, it’s best to call a professional wildlife control service like Critter Control of Kaw Valley. Attempting to remove the animal yourself can be dangerous, especially if the raccoon is trapped or aggressive. Raccoons are known to carry diseases such as rabies, and their presence can lead to costly damage to your property.
A professional wildlife control expert will not only remove the animal humanely but also ensure that your home is secured against future intrusions.
Check for Baby Raccoons
Spring is the most common time for raccoon births, and you might find a mother raccoon trying to care for her young in your attic or chimney. If you suspect that a mother has given birth in your home, it’s important to wait until the babies are old enough to leave before removing the family. A wildlife expert can assess the situation and help safely handle the relocation process, ensuring that no animals are harmed in the process.
Stay Safe
Raccoons are wild animals, and while they may seem cute, they can be aggressive, especially when cornered. If you encounter a raccoon in or around your property, avoid approaching it. If the raccoon is acting aggressively or seems sick, call Critter Control of Kaw Valley immediately for assistance.
Prevention is Key
Raccoons are persistent, but with the right prevention techniques, you can keep them from becoming a problem in your home. Regularly inspecting your property, securing food sources, and taking steps to block entry points will go a long way toward making your home less inviting to raccoons.
At Critter Control of Kaw Valley, we specialize in humane wildlife removal, prevention, and exclusion services. If you’re dealing with a raccoon infestation or simply want to make sure your home is safe, contact us today for expert advice and assistance.