Raccoons are one of my favorite animals, from far. And we seem to be getting an increase in calls, so we figured we would provide some basic information and helpful tips on how to avoid a raccoon encounter. Here at Wildlife Busters, we enjoy the raccoon and its distinctive features so much that we have incorporated it into our logo. But it’s not only their distinctive physical characteristics that we admire. It’s their incredible acrobatic abilities combined with their creative style of ripping into your property. Whether it’s a secured attic vent or simply traveling up and down open chimneys, raccoons have learned to not only survive in our communities but to thrive.
Although cute and cuddly, raccoons can wreak havoc in your attic, walls chimney (etc.) and leave behind a host of reasons why they are wonderful animals to admire from afar. Raccoons carry rabies and distemper. But your biggest concern should be the scat (feces) they leave behind in their den.
Raccoons shed millions of the microscopic roundworm eggs in their feces. You may encounter the eggs through direct contact with raccoon droppings or by touching a contaminated area or object. If you don’t wash your hands you may later transfer the eggs to your mouths. Small children are particularly vulnerable because they tend to put their hands and other objects into their mouths. You may also become infected by breathing in the raccoon roundworm eggs. Bottom line, you do not want a raccoon residing in your property.
As typical with most nuisance wildlife circumstances, prevention is the best policy. Proper repairs to a commercial or residential building, maintenance plans and inspectional services are just a part of what might help you avoid having to deal with a wildlife removal issue. Some helpful tips include:
• Make sure vents are sealed properly
• Install a chimney cap
• Secure trash in trash cans
• Seal all openings in and around your home (i.e. soffits, siding etc.)
Wondering how to get rid of raccoons? There is no magic spray or device that you can use to make them go away. Some people try to sell predator urine, such as coyote or fox urine to get rid of raccoons, but that doesn’t work. They also try to sell ultrasonic sound emitters. These devices are worthless at eliminating raccoons. Some old wive’s tales recommend the use of mothballs or ammonia-soaked rags to make them leave, but we have been to countless homes where these techniques failed – biologists know that these attempts won’t work. The ONE AND ONLY WAY to take care of your problem is with animal trapping and removal services.
If you are already experiencing a raccoon removal circumstance, please contact us at 855-945-1212 and we will professionally and humanely resolve your animal control issue.
Inspirational Quote of the Week
“Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.”
Lao-Tzu
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