When you see just one raccoon on your property, there is typically no reason for concern. But when you start to see raccoons more than once, you might be wondering if you have a problem. Continue reading to learn how to spot the signs of nuisance raccoons, and what you can do to stop them from coming back.
Nuisance Raccoon Activity
In nature, a raccoon’s innate behaviors are necessary for survival, and therefore, easy to appreciate. However, in a residentials or urban setting, raccoon behaviors are threatening, and can wind up costing property owners a lot of time and money. One of the most common nuisance behaviors of raccoons is dumpster diving, in which they will go to great lengths to access garbage in search of food. This leaves behind a huge, unsightly mess. Another nuisance behavior is lawn digging. Raccoons will dig up lawns, shredding every last square inch, in search of juicy grubs and larvae.
But perhaps the most destructive behavior raccoons are known for is residential structural damage. Raccoons have long, sharp claws, as well as, human-like hands, giving them the ability to rip, tear, pry, shred, and open. As a result, homes can suffer costly exterior damage. In the case of an infestation, the damage takes place inside the home, which is both costly and dangerous to your health. Common sites for raccoon structural damage include windows, screens, door frames, siding, roof shingles, patio grates, garage doors, trashcans, gardens, and attics.
How to Stop Raccoons
Raccoons trespass onto properties for two reasons: food and shelter. So, if your property offers any of these amenities, raccoons will know, and they will remember forever. In order to stop raccoons from visiting each night, you must make them lose interest in your property. You do this environmental modification. Remove all food and water sources, including pet food, trashcans, compost piles, and even squirrel feeders and bird baths. Block off or lock up anything you can’t remove.
Next, remove or block off all possible areas that can serve as shelter, such as tree houses, play sets, jungle gyms, trampolines, junk cars, log piles, porch cavities, and more. Your last step is to contact a local Louisville raccoon removal company for professional exclusion work. This entails inspecting your home for possible openings or vulnerable spots that will let raccoons in, and then sealing them to prevent infestations.
Where to Get Affordable Raccoon Control in Louisville
Call 502-553-7622 if you are experiencing nuisance raccoon problems in Louisville, Kentucky. We offer residential and commercial raccoon control, as well as, raccoon proofing and prevention, minor restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon cleanup, and much more. We may even be able to perform homeowners’ insurance claim work. Request a free estimate or advice, anytime. Request a free estimate, anytime.