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Racoons

Raccoons are highly adaptable, intelligent mammals that thrive in suburban and urban environments. As natural habitats shrink and food sources become more concentrated around homes, raccoon–human conflicts have become increasingly common. In wildlife control, raccoons are most often encountered when they invade attics, chimneys, sheds, garages, or cause damage to lawns and garbage areas while foraging for food. Although raccoons may appear harmless, they can cause significant structural damage and pose health risks to people and pets.

When to Call a Professional

If you suspect raccoons are living in or around your home, early intervention can prevent costly damage and health risks. A licensed wildlife control professional can assess the situation, remove the animals humanely, and help safeguard your property against future invasions.

Identification
Tips

Raccoons are medium-sized mammals easily recognized by:

  • A distinctive black “mask” across the eyes

  • A bushy tail with alternating dark and light rings

  • Gray to brown fur with a stocky body shape

  • Adult weight typically ranging from 10–30 pounds

They are primarily nocturnal, so activity is often noticed at night rather than during the day.

Biology and Life Cycle

  • Scientific name: Procyon lotor

  • Lifespan: 2–5 years in the wild (longer in urban environments)

  • Breeding season: Late winter to early spring

  • Gestation period: ~63 days

  • Young: Typically 2–5 kits per litter

Female raccoons often seek sheltered, elevated spaces such as attics or chimneys to raise their young, making residential structures ideal nesting sites.

Behavior and Habits

Raccoons are:

  • Highly intelligent and dexterous (capable of opening lids, latches, and vents)

  • Opportunistic omnivores (eat fruits, insects, pet food, garbage, and small animals)

  • Excellent climbers and swimmers

  • Territorial during nesting but tolerant of other raccoons when food is abundant

They are most active at night and can become bold around people once accustomed to human presence.

Signs of Racoon Activity

Common indicators of raccoons on or in your property include:

  • Loud thumping, scratching, or walking sounds in attics or walls (especially at night)

  • Damage to roof shingles, soffits, vents, or chimney caps

  • Tipped garbage cans or scattered trash

  • Torn insulation or compressed nesting material in attics

  • Latrine sites (repeated droppings in the same area, often on roofs or decks)

Risks and Health Concerns

Raccoons can pose several risks, including:

  • Structural damage to roofs, insulation, and ventilation systems

  • Transmission of diseases such as rabies and raccoon roundworm

  • Parasites like fleas and ticks that can spread to pets

  • Aggressive behavior if cornered or protecting young

Because of these risks, direct contact or DIY removal is strongly discouraged.

Removal and Control Techniques

Professional wildlife control focuses on humane, legal, and effective solutions, which may include:

  • Live trapping and safe removal in accordance with state regulations

  • One-way exclusion devices that allow raccoons to exit but not re-enter

  • Chimney caps and vent covers to prevent access

  • Structural repairs after removal to prevent future entry

  • Inspection to ensure no dependent young are left behind

Each situation is unique, and improper removal can lead to increased damage or orphaned animals.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the likelihood of raccoon problems:

  • Secure garbage cans with locking lids

  • Avoid leaving pet food outdoors

  • Trim tree branches away from roofs

  • Seal openings larger than 4 inches on roofs and siding

  • Install chimney caps and vent covers

Ongoing prevention is key to long-term control.

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