3 Ways to Get Rid of Raccoons
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Introduction:
Raccoons are curious and intelligent creatures that often find their way into residential areas in search of food. While they might seem cute and harmless at first, raccoons can cause extensive damage to your property and carry diseases that pose a threat to your health. In this article, we will discuss three effective ways to get rid of raccoons from your vicinity.
1. Eliminate Food Sources:
The primary reason raccoons invade your property is for food. Hence, eliminating their access to food sources is one way to deter them from staying around. Some practical steps you can take include:
1. Secure garbage cans: Use heavy-duty trash bins with tight-fitting lids, preferably with locks or fasteners, to prevent raccoons from accessing your garbage.
2. Clean up after barbecues or outdoor meals: Raccoons are attracted to the smell of leftover food. Ensure all areas are cleaned thoroughly and leftovers properly stored or disposed of after outdoor events.
3. Remove bird feeders: Raccoons love birdseed as much as the birds do, so it’s best to remove bird feeders from your yard.
4. Keep pet food indoors: If you have outdoor pets, make sure you bring their food and water dishes inside at night when raccoons are most active.
2. Seal Potential Entry Points:
Raccoons can easily find their way into attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces where they set up dens and reproduce. To prevent raccoons from entering your home:
1. Inspect your home’s exterior for any openings or cracks that could serve as entry points for raccoons; seal these areas using high-quality materials such as hardware cloth or steel mesh.
2. Add chimney caps or screens to prevent raccoons from nesting in your chimney.
3. Trim tree branches that hang close to your house, as they can serve as pathways for raccoons to gain access to your roof.
3. Installing Deterrents:
Using deterrents can help discourage raccoons from settling near or entering your home:
1. Motion-activated lights: Install motion-activated floodlights around your property, especially near garbage cans and other potential food sources. The sudden burst of light will startle raccoons and repel them from the area.
2. Electronic repellents: Commercial ultrasonic repellents emit high-frequency sounds that are uncomfortable for raccoons, forcing them to leave the area.
3. Homemade repellents: Hot pepper or garlic-based solutions can deter raccoons from areas where they have caused damage. Spray the solution on trash cans, plants, and other areas where raccoons are active.
Conclusion:
If you are experiencing issues with raccoons in your property, implementing these three strategies will help reduce their presence. Remember to remain vigilant and proactive in your efforts to control these animals. If all else fails, consider contacting a professional wildlife removal service for assistance in humanely managing your raccoon problem.