3 Tips That Will Protect Your Home from Raccoons

There are countless stories talked about all over the nation regarding wild animal damages and raccoon infestations in residential neighborhoods. Raccoons are intelligent and fascinating creatures, but unfortunately, they are highly capable of property damages and destruction. Many people wonder how they got stuck with a raccoon problem in the first place. Everyone wants to know why raccoons are trespassing onto their properties, and what they can do to get rid of them. The bad news is that raccoons are prevalent and are not going away any time soon; but the good news is that there are three magical tips that can truly prevent wildlife trespassers at night. Continue reading to learn what these three tips are, and who to call on for professional raccoon removal and control in your town.

Garbage Cans and Waste Containers

One of the main reasons why raccoons visit a property over and over again, is that they are intelligent and capable of remembering where all the neighborhood food sources are located. This means homes with amply-filled garbage bins, trash cans, and waste containers. Yes, we like to bring our trash cans out to the driveway the night before trash day; however, this is like placing an open invitation for raccoons and other wildlife to come and dine for free. Not only should you not take your garage out too soon, you should remove all outdoor trash receptacles altogether. Patio trash cans and waste containers can also attract nuisance wildlife to a property. Just remember that our garbage is their best meal. Take this away from them, and they will begin to look for food elsewhere.

Pet Food

One of the other main reasons why nuisance wildlife becomes a frequent problem for homeowners has to do with pet food. It is highly recommended to remove any outdoor pet food from your property. This includes bags of pet food stored in a garage or shed, outdoor dog or cat dishes, and even squirrel and bird feed. All of these foods are the ultimate jackpot for raccoons. Dog and cat food is a tasty treat, and if raccoons find a home with a consistent supply, they will return night after night for more.

Sealing Access Points

One of the most important and effective ways to prohibit wild raccoons from entering your home is to have its vulnerable and weak spots sealed. This means hiring a professional Louisville Raccoon Control company to repair any cracks or crevices in doors, windows, gates, garages, and more. It also means having rooftops and shingles inspected, sealed, and replaced to remove openings and access points. Raccoons have very dexterous paws that allows them to easily open or pry things. Making sure there is nothing to pry open in your home is a safe way to ensure wildlife cannot get inside.

Louisville Raccoon Removal

Call 502-553-7622 for professional Louisville raccoon removal services today. We are highly trained and DNR licensed raccoon control specialists with decades of experience in the wildlife removal industry. We offer a wide range of services for residential and commercial properties; including raccoon removal, control, prevention, proofing, cleanup, attic restorations, and more. Call 502-553-7622 and receive the most accurate and professional raccoon removal services in Louisville, KY today.

Will a Wild Raccoon Attack?

Although becoming more popular to domesticate these days, raccoons are wild animals by nature. No matter how friendly-looking or tame a wild animal appears, you can never be too sure if it will turn on you and attack. Many residential homeowners spot raccoons on their properties, in search of food and shelter. This can make a person very uneasy and ask the question, “Will a raccoon attack?” It is understandable for people to be worried once they see raccoons or other wild animals frequenting their property night after night. Families with young children and pets are especially timid on the topic of wild animal attacks. So what do you do if you see a raccoon on your property? Will it attack and harm you? Continue reading to find out!

Reasons a Raccoon Might Attack

There are several reasons explaining why raccoons attack people and pets. It is not unlikely for a raccoon to become aggressive and lunge at other animals and humans. Because raccoons are known carriers of various illnesses and diseases, no one ever wants to be bitten or scratched by one. Some of the most common reasons a raccoon will attack or become aggressive include mother raccoons nursing her young. If a dog happens to find a female raccoon with a little of pups, she may act defensively in order to protect her brood. Many dog injuries caused by raccoons happen this way.

Provoking or teasing a raccoon is another common reasons why these animals attack people and pets. Another nosy dog, a petty stray cat, or a group of children can easily provoke a raccoon into self-defense mode; which can lead to an attack or injury. It is important to steer clear when you see a wild raccoon. It is highly advised to simply keep your distance while making smooth slow movements towards indoors. Never try to catch or trap raccoons; this is typically illegal in most states anyway. Also, never try to touch or pet a raccoon. No matter how cute and cuddly a group of a baby raccoons look, never try to take them in or hold them. Most often, the mother coon is right around the corner!

If you are experiencing problems with raccoons on your property, contact a professional wildlife removal company for assistance you can trust. Be sure they are licensed and experienced in raccoon removal and control. Consider implementing some raccoon-proofing strategies with them as well to prevent raccoons and other wildlife from trespassing on your property again.

Raccoon Removal Services – Louisville, KY

Call Raccoon Removal Louisville at 502-553-7622 for superior raccoon control services in Kentucky. We are highly trained and DNR licensed raccoon removal specialists with decades of experience in the animal control industry. We only use safe and humane methods of raccoon extraction, and provide a wide range of commercial and residential services for raccoon control and prevention. Contact us today at 502-553-7622 and receive a free estimate for raccoon removal in Louisville, KY and its surrounding counties.

If I See a Raccoon, What Should I Do?

Raccoons are interesting and intelligent mammals found in nature. Unfortunately, they are becoming more prevalent in residential and urban areas; making them quite the nuisance animal. This poses a problem for several reasons; such as property damages, garbage intrusions, invasion issues, raccoon scat and health problems, attacks, and much more. One of the main questions asked by residential property owners is, “what do I do if I see a wild raccoon?” The answer is different depending on the circumstance. Continue reading to learn what a person should do, or how they should react, if they see a wild raccoon up close.

Wild Raccoon Encounters

Raccoons are nocturnal animals, meaning they are active at night and typically rest during the day. If you see a raccoon during the daytime, it could be an indication that the raccoon is sick or infected. If you are out in the evening time, whether on a stroll through the park or hanging out on your patio at home, raccoons are a possible encounter. So what do you do if you are in a situation in which you are looking straight into the eyes of a wild raccoon? The answer is simple; nothing. Never take action against a wild animal, especially a raccoon, because they are intelligent and resilient mammals that will attack or fight back to protect themselves. Raccoons can carry diseases so if they bite or scratch someone, that person is vulnerable to rabies, leptospirosis, and various other infectious diseases.

If you see a wild raccoon, immediately avoid contact or engagement. Turn around and go the other way, or go inside your home. Never try to yell, scream, or scare raccoons. This will only make them feel threatened and force them into attack mode. Once you are in safe distance of a raccoon, call a licensed animal control company and report the encounter. This is especially important if you spotted a raccoon on public property or your own. They can provide various services that can protect the area or your home from raccoon invasion.

Louisville Raccoon Removal

For expert raccoon control services or advice, call Louisville Raccoon Removal in Kentucky today. You can reach a licensed and insured raccoon control specialists that has more than two decades of experience in the animal control and removal industry. We always use safe and humane methods to get rid of raccoons in residential and commercial areas. Visit our website at https://www.raccoonremovallouisvilleky.com for details about our services and company background. Call 502-553-7622 and speak with a licensed Louisville Raccoon Removal specialist about wild raccoon encounters and more in Kentucky.

Use an Effective Raccoon Repellent for Camping Trips this Fall

As the hot summer weather fades and cooler temperatures set in, many friends and families are planning camping trips this season. Camping is a wonderful pastime for several people all over the country; however, when camping near wooded or forested areas, it is crucial to take certain safety precautions. Although there are various wild animals a camper can encounter in Kentucky, raccoons and squirrels are the most common species spotted near family-designated camp grounds.

Since squirrels are not likely to come near humans, raccoons are the culprits to look out for. They are intelligent mammals with a boundless hunger for food and warm or dry shelter. Raccoons are known to walk right up to humans or inside tents for these reasons. They use camp grounds for an easy meal and a warm bed. Using a raccoon repellant spray is one effective way to keep raccoons away from camp sites. Below you will find some recommended raccoon repellent sprays on the market today. Continue reading to learn more about raccoon repellent options for your upcoming camping trip; as well as, who to call for more information about raccoon control and removal in your city or town.

Raccoon Repellents on the Market

There are several types of wild animal repellents you can purchase to eliminate raccoon problems; however, it is important to choose a brand or method that is truly effective. Repellents can come in many forms. You can buy powders, automated sprinkling systems, sprays, concentrates, liquids, and more. Below is a list of the most recommended raccoon repellent sprays currently available for purchase online or in relevant department stores.

Critter Ridder® Animal Repellent Granular Shaker

This product comes in a granular form that resembles loose dirt. It is organic friendly and can easily be packed along with all other camping supplies and provisions. It is a quick method when it comes to setting up a periphery around your campsite. It is top-rated among most consumers and averages around 20 dollars per package. This is a great last minute approach to raccoon control and prevention for camping trips everywhere.

Shot Gun REPELS-ALL® Animal Repellent Concentrate

This effective raccoon repellent can also be used to thwart all species of wild vermin to trespass onto your camp grounds. Not only will raccoons steer clear; but other nuisance animals such as snakes, skunks, and rabbits will avoid marked areas as well. This version is a liquid concentrate made from all-natural ingredients. It is safe for the environment and can even repel in rain. It prices around 30 to 60 dollars depending on the size of the container.

Dog and Cat Repellent Sprays

There is a wide variety of cat and dog repellents for purchase in pet stores, general stores, and online. Surprisingly, these pet repellents work well for raccoon control. They can come in granular, spray, or powder form and are typically inexpensive to buy. Before a camping trip, you can simply walk into the pet aisle on your local store and pick up some animal repellent in just a few minutes. This is a quick and affordable way to repel raccoons on a camping trip.

Homemade Raccoon Repellent

Another approach for raccoon prevention is to create your own repellent. There are various recipes available online that teach you how to make your own homemade raccoon repellent. It is said that these remedies work well against nuisance raccoons and other animals too. Here is a sample recipe for homemade raccoon repellent:

HOMEMADE RACCOON REPELLENT
12 OZ Hot Sauce or Cayenne Pepper
1 Gallon of Water
1 Teaspoon Mild Dishwashing Detergent
Mix Together and Transfer to Spray Bottle.

It is important to find a good and reliable recipe because some informants suggest using all pepper-based formulas, which can be harmful to raccoons and other animals. It is always recommended to use safe and human animal control at every opportunity. The best way to learn about raccoon control and prevention is to ask an expert. Contact a local animal control company and ask them for suggestions on keeping raccoons off your camp grounds.

Raccoon Removal Louisville, Kentucky

In fact, you can simply call Raccoon Removal Louisville at 502-553-7622 for expert advice on animal control in Kentucky. We are experts at raccoon prevention and can give you free advice whenever you ask! Visit our webpage at https://www.raccoonremovallouisvilleky.com/raccoon-control-louisville-ky.php for details about our services and company background. If you are experiencing problems with raccoons or other nuisance wildlife, we are here to help. Call our DNR licensed and insured raccoon control technicians for reputable and affordable assistance in Louisville, KY and its surrounding counties or districts.

Raccoon Trivia for Nature Lovers

Are you a school student learning about common forest creatures like the wild raccoon? Or perhaps you are a concerned homeowner with a nuisance raccoon issue on your hands? Either way, you are in for some fun! Continue reading to test how much knowledge you have about raccoons, as well as, learn some facts about them that may be helpful in your situation.

Beginner Level Raccoon Trivia Questions

Are Raccoons Diurnal or Nocturnal Mammals?

Answer: NOCTURNAL

Raccoons are mammals that sleep during the daytime and become active at night. This is the meaning of “nocturnal”, referring to being active at nighttime. Raccoons forage and feed in the night, and sleep during day light hours. Spotting a raccoon during the day time could indicate that the animal is sick, delusional, or a lost pup. It is always advised to steer clear of wild animals, and contact a professional raccoon control company for help.

Are Raccoons Omnivores, Herbivores, or Cannibals?

Answer: OMNIVORES

Raccoons are omnivores, meaning they eat, rely on, and enjoy a variety of food sources. They consume insects, small invertebrates, (i.e. frogs and crayfish); as well as, fruits, nuts, plants, eggs, and even small rodents.

What is the Most Recognizable Feature of a Wild Raccoon?

Answer: MASK-LIKE BLACK STRIP ACROSS THEIR EYES

Raccoons are commonly identified and distinguished by their black “bandit-like” strip of fur across their eyes and face. All raccoons have some degree of this feature, easily setting them apart from other forest and woodland creatures. They also have long bushy tails and blackish-gray fur covering their bodies. There are various types of raccoon species across the world, but in Indiana, the grayish-black striped raccoon is the most common.

Expert Level Raccoon Trivia Questions

What is the Gestational Period for a Wild Raccoon?

Answer: 65 DAYS (AROUND TWO MONTHS)

Mother raccoons, on average, give birth to anywhere from three to five baby raccoons in one gestational period. Baby raccoons are called “kits”, and are usually born in the spring time. Their black “bandit-like” mask is already identifiable at birth!

What is the Scientific Species Name for a Raccoon?

Answer: PROCYON LOTOR

Raccoons are categorized as part of the Mammalia class, Carnivora order, Procyonidae family, and the Procyon genus. They are medium sized mammals with dense furry coats and long bushy tails. They live in forested and wooded areas, feeding on invertebrates, insects, small rodents, fruits, nuts, and plant life. They typically survive around two to three years in the wild; however, in captivity, raccoons can live up to 20 years or more!

What Diseases Can Be Contracted From a Sick Raccoon?

Answer: RABIES, HISTOPLASMOSIS, LEPTOSPIROSIS, SALMONELLA, TICKS, LICE, ROUNDWORM, AND MORE

Raccoons are common carriers of many infectious diseases that can negatively affect the health of humans and other animals. Pets and children are at high risk of raccoon attacks because they are the most curious and naive. Raccoon bites are common in residential neighborhoods, especially near public parks and playgrounds. Although raccoons are nocturnal, they frequently cross paths with kids, pets, and adults time and again. Diseases such as Rabies, Histoplasmosis, and Salmonella are dangerous illnesses that can be life threatening if left untreated. Less serious but still undesirable ailments include ticks, fleas, lice, and roundworm.

For more information about raccoons, call Louisville Raccoon Removal in Kentucky at 502-553-7622 today. Our professionals can provide accurate and trustworthy information about raccoon control and more in Louisville, KY. Visit our website at https://www.raccoonremovallouisvilleky.com for details about our services and company background. Our raccoon control techs are highly trained and licensed specialists with decades of experience in the animal control industry. We offer free estimates, DIY advice, discounts, coupons, and more! Call 502-553-7622 for raccoon removal advice and information in Louisville, Kentucky and its surrounding areas.

Are Wild Animal Damages Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

Accidental damage done to a home or property by wild animals may not always be covered by an average homeowners’ insurance policy. It is common for insurance plans exclude any home or property damage caused by vermin and wild animals. In most cases, a person can request extra coverage for these potential circumstances; but it is not likely to cross someone’s mind when buying a home. It is recommended for anyone purchasing new property or updating a home insurance policy to suggest animal damage coverage in their policies. This question is especially important for homes and buildings near wooded lots. Continue reading to learn more about homeowner’s insurance policies and how they work in correspondence to animal damages and property destruction.

Structural Damages Caused By Wild Animals

Animal damage can be costly and expensive. New construction, labor costs, and blueprints can become overwhelming all too fast. Also, the expenses associated with repairing structural damages caused by animals can add up quick. The amount of money and time it takes to facilitate these kinds of projects is intimidating, so it is no wonder people have been asking this question for so long.

Although it is possible for some plans to not include it; in most homeowner’s insurance policies, wild animal damages are actually covered so long as they are not caused by rodents or vermin. Animals such as raccoons, opossums, squirrels, bats, pigeons, and skunks are not considered vermin or rodents. Rodents and vermin are mainly defined as mice or rats. The damages have to be a one-time infraction, and claimed immediately, to avoid loss of coverage due to procrastination. Again, this is in most cases but not all.

Possible Animal Damage Insurance Claims and Outcomes

Let’s say a person is on vacation, and an opossum chews through their gas line under the home. This creates a gas leak and inevitably a fire. Although no one is harmed, the home is engulfed and destroyed by the fire. Is this person covered? If their policy states so, this person is covered because the damage is a one-time identifiable event, and the animal was not a rodent. In another scenario, a man notices a foul smell emitting from his ceiling, along with mysterious scratching noises at night. This goes on for several weeks until he discovers a raccoon colony living in his attic. Because the raccoons broke in weeks ago, allowing the damages to mass accumulate, the insurance company may fight to cover only partial amounts of damage, insisting that he didn’t take action in due time.

For more information about animal damages and insurance coverage in Louisville, Kentucky, call 502-553-7622 today. Our company retains highly experienced and knowledgeable wildlife control technicians with decades of experience in the animal removal and restoration industry. We are happy to answer any questions you have about raccoon removal, animal control, and structural damage restoration. Visit our website at https://www.raccoonremovallouisvilleky.com/raccoon-damage-insurance-claims-louisville.php for details about this topic and more. Call our professional wild animal control technicians for friendly and effective wildlife removal services in Louisville, KY.

Getting Rid of Raccoons In and Around Your Property

Raccoons are forest creatures that prefer living near wooded areas with lots of trees. When new construction begins (i.e. new homes, commercial complexes, etc.), raccoons are often pushed out of their natural habitat and forced to find alternative food and shelter sources. This is when raccoons are spotted on our porches, roofs, lawns, gardens, and more. Homeowners are always asking how to get rid of nuisance raccoons on their property. Read on to learn more ways to avoid raccoon invasion in your home or on your property.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons

Do not ever feed raccoons. A common mistake that many people make is leaving food sources out and available for raccoons to eat, either unintentionally or on purpose. Families who intentionally feed raccoons may think they are helping, or having fun with a nightly source of entertainment (i.e. watching the raccoons come and eat the food through their patio doors); however, these people are teaching raccoons that residential properties are bountiful sources of easy-to-get food. This creates an on-going problem for other property owners that do not want raccoons entering their yards, or their homes.

There are also people who unintentionally leave food sources outside that will always attract raccoons. For example, many families own outdoor pets, and leave food bowls outside for them. This is a common mistake property owners make. Raccoons are omnivores, and eat about everything. Dog and cat food are tasty treats for them, not to mention an easy meal too. It is advised to bring the pet bowls inside before night fall to avoid attracting more raccoons to your house. Raccoons are clever and will remember which areas are food sources and which are not. If they fail to find food on your property, they will remember and not come back.

Secure your home from the outside. Raccoons want to find shelter from the cold fall and winter seasons, and also find cooler shelter in the hotter seasons. When raccoon colonies are pushed out of their natural environments, they are desperate to find alternative shelter in the area. In most cases, raccoons desire our homes for that kind of shelter because they are nearby and accessible. If there are vulnerable spots on the outside of your home, raccoons will find these spots and enter the premises quickly. They are clever and have dexterous paws that allow them to grip and clasp very well. This allows them to open doors, push and pull at siding and shingles, and more. Have your home inspected annually to be sure there aren’t any holes in your roof, attic, crawl space, porch, and garage. Also, lock any open pet doors because raccoons will use them to enter your home just as your pet does.

For more information about how to get rid of raccoons in residential areas, call Louisville Raccoon Removal right away! We are expert raccoon control technicians with over 20 years of experience in the industry. We are professionals in our field and are happy to offer advice, answer questions, give free estimates, and more! Call us at 502-553-7622 to learn more about getting rid of raccoons in Louisville, KY today!

Raccoon Information and Facts

Raccoons are an intelligent species of mammal that generally live near wooded areas and forests in North America.  They are also commonly seen in residential and commercial areas of our cities due to housing developments and new construction.  Raccoons, in these areas, have acquired a bad reputation for trouble-making because they thieve our garbage and hide-out in our attics and roofs.  Read on to learn more about raccoons, and perhaps, take in a better understanding of these misrepresented animals of nature.

General Description

A raccoon is a medium-sized animal.  They can weigh anywhere from ten to twenty pounds.  Raccoons are covered in a dense fur with multiple layers.  This fur keeps them warm in the colder seasons and cool in the warmer ones.  The fur coat is grayish brown and black; but they are most identifiable by their black and gray striped tail. Another known trait all raccoons have is the black mask-like stripe across their eyes.   This is one reason they got the nickname little-bandits.  They have very dexterous paws that look almost human-like, with long claws for grasping and climbing.  They have a slight snout and whiskers as well.

Lifestyle

As far as reproduction goes, female raccoons give birth to litters called kits.  A mother raccoon can birth as many as 5 kits per litter.  Their gestation period is much shorter than humans, only lasting around 65 days.  Once the kits are about 16 weeks, they are completely weaned from their mother and can experience life on their own.  They eat almost everything because raccoons are omnivores.  This means they eat fruits, vegetables, frogs, fish, insects, and more.  The diet must be good to them because raccoons can live up to twenty years!  Although they can live a longtime, raccoons are commonly hit by cars and even preyed upon in the wild.

Associated Dangers

The stereotype is that raccoons have rabies and will attack humans and pass it on.  The truth is, ANY mammal can have rabies and pass it on to humans.  Raccoons are no more susceptible to rabies and diseases as your pet dog and all other animals.  Also, raccoons are more scared of us than we are of them, making it less likely for them to attack.  The best advice is to stay away from all wild animals no matter what.

For more information on raccoons in Louisville, KY, contact a professional.  We have been removing raccoons from residential and commercial properties for over ten years.  We offer a wide variety of related services as well.  We are available 24 hours to discuss raccoons, raccoon control, and more.  Call us at 502-553-7622 or visit our Louisville KY Raccoon Control website anytime!

Raccoon Damage Solutions

Raccoons can cause an alarming amount of damage inside and around residential and commercial properties.  Their nesting, breeding, and feeding all cause structural damages to attics, crawl spaces, porches, garages, roofs, and more.  The accumulation of their urine and droppings saturate and destroy insulation, sheet-rock, dry wall, and any stored items in the area.  This can also cause noticeably unpleasant odors. 

Also, raccoons are known to chew through electrical wiring, cables, and other items they intend to use for nesting and burrowing.  Raccoons can be quite a nuisance and their damages can devalue your property.  It is no question that raccoons are not intended to live among us in our homes, barns, garages, sheds, or anywhere else that we value. The question is:  Who takes care of the mess, debris, and damage once they are removed from the property?

A Licensed Raccoon Removal Company

There will certainly be structural damages to any space raccoons nest in; and the degree of damage depends on the length of time spent nesting.  As far as the structural damage goes, you can easily call any self-employed contractor, or even a general home repair and restoration company to restore your damaged property; however, the key to getting the best deal all-around is hiring an industry specific company.  A full-service licensed raccoon removal company can provide all these services, and more, at a more affordable cost than general contractors or home repair companies.

Their knowledge is raccoon specific, they have years of experience specifically repairing damages caused by raccoons, and a true  professional raccoon removal company can work side-by-side with your home owners’ insurance company to get everything covered before starting the project.  A professional raccoon control company can go in and clean up the raccoon mess, then sanitize the area and prepare it for restorations.  They can then repair and replace all the soiled sheet-rock and drywall, torn insulation, chewed electrical wiring and foul odors.  A licensed raccoon removal company is the solution to raccoon damage.

For more information on raccoon damage and restorations, call our professional Kentucky raccoon control specialists at 502-553-7622.  We are fully licensed and insured with over 15 years of experience repairing damages caused by raccoons.  To learn more about raccoon control, visit our Louisville Raccoon Removal website anytime.