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Pests 101: Racoons

Pests 101: Racoons

Racoons: Essential Facts

Raccoons are clever and adaptable mammals that can become pests when they invade urban and suburban environments. Understanding their behaviours, identifying signs of activity, and managing their presence are essential for avoiding conflicts.

Identification

Raccoons are medium-sized mammals, typically weighing 5-15 kilograms, with a distinctive black “mask” across their eyes and a bushy tail with 4-10 black rings. They have grayish fur and are known for their dexterous front paws.

Behavior

Raccoons are nocturnal and omnivorous, feeding on fruits, nuts, insects, and small animals. In urban areas, they often scavenge garbage, pet food, and birdseed. They are excellent climbers and can easily access attics, chimneys, and other structures.

Signs of Infestation

  • Tracks: Distinctive five-toed paw prints around the home or property.
  • Damage: Tipped-over trash cans, torn ducts, or attic insulation disturbance.
  • Noises: Scratching or thumping sounds in attics or walls, mainly at night.
  • Droppings: Found near dens or feeding sites, often containing seeds.

Health Risks

Raccoons can cause significant property damage and may carry diseases such as rabies and raccoon roundworm, posing health risks to humans and pets. They can also be aggressive if threatened.

Prevention

  • Secure Trash: Use raccoon-proof bins and avoid leaving food waste outside.
  • Eliminate Access: Seal entry points to attics and crawl spaces with secure materials.
  • Remove Food Sources: Feed pets indoors and clean up fallen fruit or birdseed.

Raccoon Control Solutions

By taking preventative measures and staying vigilant, you can reduce the likelihood of raccoon encounters and minimize potential harm to your property and health.

Engage TAG Pest Control’s wildlife control experts for safe and humane relocation if necessary.

TAG Pest Control’s expert technicians use a combination of baiting, trapping, and exclusion methods to effectively manage raccoons. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your home from raccoons.

Did You Know?

Raccoons are known for their remarkable intelligence and problem-solving abilities. They can remember solutions to tasks for at least three years and have even been observed opening complex locks and latches. This intelligence helps them adapt to diverse environments and successfully exploit urban areas for food and shelter.

Don’t Wait. Get Fast & Reliable Pest Control Today.

Safeguard your property with our professional pest control services. Contact TAG Pest Control today to learn how we can create a safer, pest-free environment.