Pests are everywhere, and while a small bug here or there may not be an issue, some pests are larger. Raccoons are notorious for invading homes for food and shelter. If you think you have raccoons or want to reduce your risk of raccoons, keep reading.
What Attracts Raccoons?
Raccoons may invade your home or just your yard, but either way, they are looking for two things: water and food. Like every creature, raccoons need water, but unlike humans, they will drink from decorative fountains, puddles, leaking pipes, pet dishes, etc.
Raccoons also need food, and they often become opportunistic feeders. In the wild, they may be more inclined to eat eggs, fish, snails, and insects. However, they are also attracted to just about any food in or outside your house. Food sources may include:
- Unsecured garbage cans
- Pet foot
- Food for birds
What Are the Signs of Raccoons?
In many cases, you may spot the raccoons, but they tend to be shy and move at night. If you have a pet, they may start to act weird when the raccoons are around. Your cat may be too afraid to go outside, or your dog may chase the raccoon. However, they do leave lots of signs. Outside, look for:
- Raccoon paw prints
- Exterior roof damage like holes
- Strewn food scraps and garbage
- Feces/urine
- Damaged tree branches
- Scratches on trees
If raccoons get inside your attic, listen for sounds of scratching, purring, growing, snarling, and scurrying. You may also see feces/urine or nesting materials in the attic.
What Are the Risks of Raccoons?
Raccoons can be incredibly problematic. For starters, they can make messes and destroy parts of your home. More importantly, however, they may attack you, your kids, or your pets. Plus, many carry diseases that can infect both humans and pets, including rabies. For this reason, if any raccoon bites you or your pet, you should seek immediate medical attention.
How Can You Eliminate Raccoons?
Getting rid of raccoons can be difficult. You may not want to destroy them because you may harm other animals too. For example, your pup may accidentally eat the poison. Luckily, you can have the raccoons relocated. This is a humane way to take back your home/yard and secure your safety. Plus, the raccoons get the benefit of getting back to nature: away from cars and humans.
Raccoons may look cute with their little bandit faces, but they can be incredibly problematic. Not only can they hurt your family or pets, but they can also spread deadly diseases. If you would like to know more, contact a raccoon control expert today.
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