Raccoons can quickly become pests when they invade your home, causing damage and carrying diseases. To prevent them from infesting your home, it is crucial to secure your garbage cans, eliminate potential entry points, install motion-activated lights, trim trees and shrubs, and use repellents. Raccoons can enter your home through various entry points, such as open windows, damaged roofing, or siding. Install motion-activated lights and trim overhanging branches to deter them. Repellents can also be effective but may also affect other animals and pets. Direct contact with raccoons should be avoided as they carry diseases such as rabies.
Raccoons as Pests: How to Keep Them Out of Your Home
Raccoons are cute and furry animals that are primarily found in North America. However, they can quickly become pests when they invade your home. They are notorious for carrying diseases, damaging property, and causing a mess. Therefore, it is essential to take necessary steps to prevent them from infesting your home. In this article, we will provide you with practical tips on how to keep raccoons out of your home.
1. Secure Your Garbage
Raccoons are attracted to homes and neighborhoods that offer an abundant food source. One such source is unsecured garbage cans. Therefore, it is crucial to secure your garbage cans to prevent raccoons from rummaging through them. You can achieve this by investing in a sturdy and secure garbage can with a tight-fitting lid. You can also utilize bungee cords to secure the lids in place.
2. Eliminate Potential Entry Points
Raccoons can enter your home through various entry points, such as open windows or doors, damaged roofing, or siding. Therefore, it is crucial to eliminate potential entry points by conducting regular inspections of your home’s exterior. Any damages should be repaired immediately to prevent raccoons from entering your home.
3. Install Motion-Activated Lights
Raccoons are nocturnal animals that are active at night. Therefore, installing motion-activated lights around your home’s exterior can help deter them. The bright lights will startle them, making them hesitant to approach your home.
4. Trim Trees and Shrubs
Raccoons are excellent climbers and can quickly scale trees and shrubs. Therefore, it is essential to trim any overhanging branches around your home to prevent them from gaining access to your rooftop.
5. Use Repellents
There are various raccoon repellent products available in the market that can help deter raccoons. These repellents work by emitting an unpleasant scent or taste to the raccoons, making them avoid the area. Keep in mind that these repellents may also affect other animals and pets.
FAQs about Raccoons as Pests
Q1. Are raccoons dangerous to humans?
Raccoons are not usually dangerous to humans unless they feel threatened or cornered. However, they carry diseases such as rabies and can transmit them if they bite. It is therefore essential to avoid direct contact with raccoons.
Q2. How do I know if a raccoon has entered my home?
Raccoons may leave various signs of their presence such as paw prints, feces, and damaged property. If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to contact a professional pest control service to inspect your home.
Q3. Can I trap raccoons myself?
Trapping raccoons requires specific licensing and knowledge. It is recommended to contact a professional pest control service to ensure raccoons are trapped humanely and in compliance with local laws.
Conclusion
Raccoons can be a nuisance when they invade your home. They carry diseases, damage property, and cause a mess. However, by implementing practical measures such as securing your garbage cans, eliminating potential entry points, installing motion-activated lights, trimming trees and shrubs, and using repellents, you can keep raccoons out of your home.
