Raccoons can be a nuisance when they invade our spaces, causing destruction and making a mess. In this article, we will share effective tips and tricks on how to swiftly and humanely remove these cunning critters from your property. From simple preventive measures to the use of safe and efficient methods, we’ll explore the best practices for eradicating raccoons fast. So, if you’re tired of these masked mischief-makers wreaking havoc in your backyard, keep reading for the ultimate guide to saying goodbye to raccoons in no time!
How Do You Get Rid Of Raccoons Fast
Table of Contents
Prevention Measures
Seal Off Entry Points
To prevent raccoons from entering your property, it is important to seal off any potential entry points. Raccoons are skilled climbers and can easily access areas such as attics, crawl spaces, and chimneys. Ensure that all holes, gaps, and cracks in your home’s exterior are properly sealed with materials like caulk, steel mesh, or hardware cloth. By blocking their access points, you can effectively reduce the chances of raccoons entering your home.
Keep Garbage Secure
Raccoons are attracted to garbage due to the potential food it offers. To keep raccoons away, it is essential to keep your garbage secure. Invest in sturdy trash cans with tight-fitting lids or consider using animal-proof containers. Additionally, try to avoid leaving your garbage cans outside overnight and only put them out on the day of trash pickup. By minimizing the availability of food sources, raccoons will be less likely to venture onto your property.
Remove Potential Food Sources
Apart from garbage, raccoons are also attracted to other potential food sources such as bird feeders, fallen fruits, and pet food left outside. To prevent raccoons from being enticed onto your property, make sure to remove these food sources. Consider using raccoon-resistant bird feeders or placing bird feeders in areas that are difficult for raccoons to access. Regularly pick up fallen fruits from trees or bushes, and avoid leaving pet food exposed outside.
Use Motion-Activated Lights
Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, and they are often deterred by bright lights. Install motion-activated lights in key areas of your property such as near garbage cans, entry points, or areas with known raccoon activity. When motion is detected, these lights will automatically turn on and startle the raccoons, discouraging them from approaching further. Motion-activated lights provide an effective and energy-efficient way to deter raccoons from your property.
Install a Fence
Fencing your property can serve as a physical barrier to prevent raccoons from entering. Choose a sturdy fence design with a height of at least four feet to make it difficult for raccoons to climb or jump over. It is essential to bury the fence at least six inches below ground level to prevent raccoons from burrowing underneath. Additionally, consider adding a layer of electric wire or deterrent spikes to the top of your fence to further discourage raccoons from attempting to invade your property.
Secure Outdoor Pets
If you have outdoor pets, it is crucial to take measures to secure them and prevent raccoon encounters. Raccoons can be aggressive towards pets and may try to fight them for food or territory. Make sure to feed your pets indoors or remove any uneaten food as soon as possible. Consider building an enclosed outdoor space specifically for your pets, such as a dog run or cat enclosure. This will provide them with a safe area to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing the chances of raccoon interactions.
Trim Overhanging Trees
Raccoons are excellent climbers and can use overhanging trees as a means to access your property. To prevent this, regularly trim back branches that are close to your home or other structures. By removing these potential pathways, you can reduce the risk of raccoons gaining access to your property. It is recommended to keep tree branches at least ten feet away from your house, especially around areas that raccoons may target, such as roof vents or chimneys.
Keep Outdoor Areas Clean
Maintaining a clean outdoor environment can discourage raccoons from sticking around. Raccoons are attracted to areas with abundant food and shelter opportunities. By regularly removing debris, such as fallen leaves or piles of wood, you can diminish their appeal to raccoons. Additionally, keep your lawn well-maintained and free from overgrown vegetation, as this can provide hiding spots for raccoons.
Use Animal Repellents
There are various animal repellents available that can be used to deter raccoons from your property. These repellents often contain strong scents or tastes that are unpleasant to raccoons. Some common repellents include ammonia, cayenne pepper, or predator urine. Apply these repellents to areas where raccoons are known to frequent, such as trash cans, entry points, or specific outdoor areas. Keep in mind that repellents may need to be reapplied periodically, especially after rain.
Implement Noise Deterrents
Raccoons can be deterred by loud and unexpected noises. Consider implementing noise deterrents, such as wind chimes, motion-activated sound devices, or even a radio set to a talk station. The sudden noises can startle raccoons and make them feel uncomfortable, causing them to leave your property. However, be mindful of your neighbors and choose noise deterrents that are not overly disruptive to the surrounding environment.
Natural Deterrents
Ammonia Soaked Rags
An effective natural deterrent is using ammonia-soaked rags. Raccoons have a highly sensitive sense of smell, and the strong scent of ammonia can deter them from entering your property. Soak rags or cloths in ammonia and place them in areas where raccoons are known to frequent, such as near entry points or around trash cans. Replenish the ammonia scent regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
Hot Pepper Spray
Another natural deterrent that can be used is hot pepper spray. Raccoons dislike the strong taste of hot peppers and will generally avoid areas where this spray is applied. To make your own spray, mix hot pepper flakes or powder with water and a small amount of dish soap. Spray this mixture around potential raccoon entry points or areas where they are causing a problem. Keep in mind that pepper spray may need to be reapplied after rainfall.
Use Predator Urine
Raccoons have a natural fear of predators, and using predator urine can help deter them from your property. Predator urine, such as that of coyotes or foxes, can be purchased at garden or outdoor supply stores. Apply the urine around potential raccoon entry points, trash cans, or other areas where raccoons are causing issues. The scent of the predator urine will signal to raccoons that a predator is nearby, and they will be more inclined to stay away.
Ultrasonic Devices
Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to raccoons but not harmful to humans or other animals. These devices work by creating a sound barrier that raccoons find uncomfortable and will try to avoid. Place ultrasonic devices in key areas of your property, such as near trash cans or entry points. Keep in mind that these devices have a limited range, so multiple devices may be necessary for optimal coverage.
Bright Lights
Raccoons are nocturnal animals and are often deterred by bright lights. Install bright outdoor lights around your property to discourage raccoons from venturing onto your land. Motion-activated lights can be particularly effective, as the sudden brightness can startle raccoons and make them feel exposed. Consider placing lights near areas where raccoons are likely to gather, such as near trash cans or other potential food sources.
Loud Noises
Similar to bright lights, loud noises can startle and deter raccoons. Implement noise deterrents such as wind chimes, motion-activated sound devices, or even a loud radio playing talk shows. The unexpected noise can make raccoons feel uncomfortable and encourage them to leave your property. However, be considerate of your neighbors and avoid noise levels that could be disruptive to the surrounding environment.
Strong Scents
Raccoons have a keen sense of smell and are repelled by certain strong scents. Consider using scented deterrents such as ammonia, peppermint oil, or citrus peels to repel raccoons. Apply these scents around areas where raccoons are causing problems or near potential entry points. Remember to replenish the scents regularly, as they may fade over time.
Create Barriers
Physical barriers can be an effective natural deterrent to keep raccoons away from specific areas. Use wire mesh or hardware cloth to create barriers around vulnerable areas such as gardens, chicken coops, or compost piles. Secure the barriers firmly to the ground to prevent raccoons from burrowing underneath. Creating barriers can help protect valuable assets on your property and reduce potential damage caused by raccoons.
Motion-Sensor Sprinklers
Motion-sensor sprinklers can be an excellent natural deterrent for raccoons. These devices use sensors to detect movement and then activate a sprinkler system to spray water at the intruder. Raccoons, being nocturnal creatures, are often startled by the sudden burst of water and will quickly retreat. Set up motion-sensor sprinklers in areas where raccoons are causing problems, such as near trash cans or gardens, to effectively deter them.
Cayenne Pepper Solution
Raccoons dislike the strong taste of cayenne pepper, making it an effective natural deterrent. Create a solution by mixing cayenne pepper powder with water and a small amount of dish soap. Spray this mixture around potential raccoon entry points or areas where they are causing trouble. However, be cautious when using this solution near plants or food sources that may be consumed by other animals, as it can also deter them.
Trapping and Relocation
Research Local Laws
Before attempting to trap raccoons, it is important to research and understand the local laws and regulations regarding trapping and relocation. Different jurisdictions may have specific requirements or restrictions on trapping and moving wildlife. Ensure that you are familiar with the specific rules in your area to avoid any legal complications.
Choose the Correct Trap
When selecting a trap, it is essential to choose one that is suitable for capturing raccoons safely and effectively. Live traps that are at least 10x12x32 inches in size are generally recommended for raccoon trapping. These traps should be sturdy and equipped with a sensitive trigger mechanism to ensure that raccoons are safely captured without causing them unnecessary harm.
Set Up the Trap
Properly setting up the trap is crucial for successful raccoon removal. Place the trap in an area where raccoons are known to frequent or where they are causing problems. Ensure that the trap is on a stable, level surface and that it cannot be easily knocked over or tampered with. Consider disguising the trap with natural materials to make it look less threatening to the raccoons.
Bait the Trap
To lure raccoons into the trap, bait it with foods that raccoons find enticing. Some popular bait options include fish-flavored cat food, sweet fruits, or marshmallows. Place the bait at the back of the trap, near the trigger mechanism, to maximize the chances of capturing raccoons. Additionally, consider using a small amount of bait to avoid over-feeding the raccoons and reducing their motivation to enter the trap.
Check Traps Regularly
Once the traps are set, it is crucial to check them regularly to ensure the humane removal of raccoons. Raccoons can become stressed or dehydrated if left in a trap for an extended period. Establish a schedule for checking the traps, ideally at least once every few hours during daylight hours. If a raccoon is captured, follow the appropriate protocols for safe transport and release.
Transport and Release
If you successfully trap a raccoon, it is important to transport and release it in a suitable location, according to local laws and regulations. Choose a release site that is far away from your property and any residential areas. Release the raccoon in a wooded area or near a water source, where it can find shelter and natural sources of food. Ensure that you handle the raccoon with care and minimize stress during the transport and release process.
Professional Assistance
Contact a Wildlife Control Service
If raccoon removal becomes too challenging or you feel uncomfortable handling the situation on your own, it is advisable to contact a professional wildlife control service. These experts have the knowledge, experience, and equipment required to safely and effectively remove raccoons from your property. They can assess the situation, provide appropriate solutions, and implement effective removal methods.
Follow Local Regulations
When seeking professional assistance for raccoon removal, ensure that the service provider operates in compliance with all local laws and regulations. This includes obtaining the necessary permits or licenses for wildlife removal. Choosing a reputable wildlife control service that adheres to legal requirements will give you peace of mind and minimize legal complications.
Ask for Recommendations
To find a reliable wildlife control service, consider asking for recommendations from friends, neighbors, or local community groups who may have previously dealt with raccoon issues. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and professionalism of different service providers. Additionally, online reviews and testimonials can help gauge the reputation and quality of a wildlife control service.
Ensure Humane Practices
When seeking professional assistance, it is essential to choose a wildlife control service that prioritizes humane practices. A reputable service should have a clear policy on handling wildlife with care and utilizing removal methods that minimize stress and harm to the animals. Ensure that the service provider follows ethical guidelines and employs humane techniques throughout the removal process.
Consider the Cost
When considering professional assistance, it is important to take into account the associated costs. Raccoon removal services can vary in price depending on factors such as the severity of the infestation, the size of the property, and the complexity of the removal process. Obtain quotes from multiple service providers to compare prices and services offered. Remember, the cost of professional assistance should be weighed against the potential risks and damages associated with DIY removal.
Understand Liability
It is crucial to understand the liability associated with raccoon removal, especially when seeking professional assistance. While professional wildlife control services aim to minimize risks, accidents or damages can occur during the removal process. Ensure that the service provider has proper insurance coverage to mitigate any potential liability on your part. Read and understand the terms of the agreement or contract before proceeding with raccoon removal services.
Hazards of DIY Removal
Potentially Dangerous Situations
DIY raccoon removal can pose potential dangers, particularly when dealing with live traps or confrontations with raccoons. Raccoons can be aggressive when cornered or feel threatened, and they may scratch, bite, or transmit diseases such as rabies. Attempting to remove raccoons without proper knowledge or protection can put you at risk of physical harm.
Injury to Raccoons
Inadequate DIY removal methods can also result in injury or harm to raccoons. Improper trap placement or handling can cause physical stress or harm to trapped raccoons. Additionally, using ineffective or harmful deterrents can cause unnecessary suffering to the animals. It is important to prioritize the well-being and safety of both humans and raccoons during the removal process.
Damage to Property
In some cases, DIY raccoon removal methods can cause unintended damage to property. Improper use of traps or repellents can lead to damage to walls, floors, or other structures. Mishandling live traps or attempting to remove raccoons without proper precautions can also result in property damage, such as scratched surfaces or broken items. It is essential to carefully consider the potential risks and damages associated with DIY removal.
Ineffectiveness of Methods
Not all DIY raccoon removal methods are equally effective, and some may yield limited or temporary results. Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable creatures, and they may find ways to overcome or bypass certain deterrents or traps. Ineffective methods can lead to prolonged raccoon presence, increased property damage, or ongoing conflicts. It is important to use proven and reliable methods or seek professional assistance to ensure effective removal.
Legal Consequences
DIY raccoon removal without proper knowledge of local laws and regulations can result in legal consequences. Many jurisdictions have specific rules governing the trapping, relocation, or extermination of wildlife, including raccoons. Violating these regulations can lead to fines or legal action, and it is crucial to be aware of and adhere to the applicable legal requirements.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with raccoon infestations or unwanted raccoon presence on your property can be a challenging task. Preventive measures, natural deterrents, and professional assistance are all viable options to consider. By implementing effective prevention techniques, using natural deterrents responsibly, or seeking professional help when necessary, you can successfully address raccoon issues and ensure the safety and well-being of both humans and raccoons.
Remember to always prioritize humane practices, carefully consider the risks and benefits of DIY removal, and abide by local laws and regulations. With patience, persistence, and the right approach, you can get rid of raccoons fast and restore peace and harmony to your property.
