Wildlife Removal Company

Raccoons: The Sneaky Intruders and the Dangers They Pose to Homeowners

Raccoons may be cute with their masked faces and mischievous nature, but when these nocturnal creatures decide to make your home their own, they can cause serious problems. Often mistaken for harmless animals, raccoons are actually highly resourceful and capable of causing significant damage. If you find yourself sharing your home with these furry bandits, it’s time to take action.

Why Raccoons are a Problem for Homeowners

1. Structural Damage

Raccoons are notorious for their ability to infiltrate homes. They can tear through roofs, vents, soffits, and chimneys to gain access to attics, crawl spaces, and basements. Once inside, raccoons can:

• Damage insulation by tearing it apart to build nests.
• Chew on wires, posing serious electrical hazards and increasing the risk of fires.
• Rummage through your belongings, leaving behind a mess of shredded materials.

The longer they’re allowed to roam undisturbed, the more damage they can cause, and repairs can become costly and time-consuming.

2. Health Risks

Raccoons are not just a nuisance; they can also pose serious health risks to humans and pets. These animals can carry a range of diseases, such as:

• Rabies: Raccoons are one of the main carriers of rabies in the wild. If a raccoon bites or scratches a human or pet, it can transmit this deadly virus.
• Leptospirosis: This bacterial infection, often transmitted through contact with raccoon urine or feces, can cause fever, muscle pain, and other health issues.
• Roundworm: The larvae of roundworms can be found in raccoon feces. If inhaled or ingested, they can cause serious health problems, including damage to organs and even blindness.
• Ticks and Fleas: These parasites can hitch a ride on raccoons and infest your home, putting your pets and family at risk for further health complications.

3. Noise and Disturbance

Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, meaning they’re most active during the night. If they’ve taken up residence in your attic or walls, their nocturnal activities can be disruptive and loud, keeping you up at night with constant scratching, clawing, and even thumping noises. This not only affects your sleep but also adds stress and discomfort to your home environment.

4. Damage to Landscaping and Property

Raccoons often search for food in garbage cans, bird feeders, and vegetable gardens. They can easily overturn trash bins, scatter waste, and cause a mess in your yard. If they get into your garden or compost pile, they may damage plants or steal food, creating a nuisance for homeowners who take pride in their outdoor spaces.

5. Aggressive Behavior

Though raccoons typically avoid human interaction, they can become aggressive when threatened or cornered. If a raccoon feels trapped or scared, it may lash out and become dangerous, especially if it’s carrying diseases like rabies. If a raccoon is caught inside your home, the best course of action is to contact a professional wildlife removal service to ensure both your safety and that of the animal.

How to Protect Your Home from Raccoons

1. Seal Entry Points: Check your roof, attic, vents, chimneys, and foundation for any gaps, cracks, or holes. Seal these entry points to prevent raccoons from getting inside.

2. Secure Trash Cans: Use raccoon-proof garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, and avoid leaving trash outside overnight.

3. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Raccoons are excellent climbers, so trimming branches that overhang your roof or windows can prevent them from gaining access.

4. Remove Food Sources: Don’t leave pet food or bird seed outside, as this can attract raccoons. Clean up fallen fruit from trees and keep compost bins secure.

5. Install Motion-Sensor Lights: Raccoons are nocturnal, and bright lights can deter them from coming near your property.

When to Call a Professional

If you suspect that raccoons have made a home in your attic or other parts of your property, it’s crucial to contact a professional wildlife removal service. Raccoons can be dangerous when provoked and may carry diseases that pose a health risk to you and your family. A wildlife expert can safely remove the raccoons, seal up entry points, and offer advice on how to keep them from returning.

Conclusion

Raccoons may be fascinating animals, but they’re not the kind of tenants you want in your home. Their ability to cause structural damage, spread disease, and disrupt your daily life makes them a serious threat to homeowners. If you suspect you have a raccoon problem, take action quickly to avoid costly repairs and health risks. Protect your home, family, and peace of mind by contacting a professional wildlife removal service to handle the situation safely and effectively.