How Smart is a Raccoon?

Posted on May 14, 2019 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

There are several species within the animal kingdom that retain notable traits of intelligence, such as primates, dolphins, killer whales, horses, pigs, and of course, canines. But did you know that a common pest is also on the list of animals that are pretty smart? That’s right; those little masked bandits we call raccoons are quite intelligent, and there is plenty of research and evidence to back it up.

Continue reading to learn more about the average intelligence of the Common raccoon, and what you can do if raccoons are becoming a nuisance around your property.

Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

History of Raccoon Intelligence Research

Between the years of 1905 and 1915, the measurable of intelligence of a common raccoon was quite the heated dispute among the authorities in the field of comparative psychology. A psychologist by the name of Lawrence W. Cole created a colony of raccoons at the University of Oklahoma. In 1907, he and a doctoral student at Clark University named Herbert Burnham Davis, published the results of the experiment, detailing the raccoon’s processes of learning, association, and memory.

Their research relied heavily on puzzles, specifically E.L. Thorndike’s puzzle-box methodology, which involved putting the raccoons inside wood crates to see if they could escape by opening the latch, or even a sequence of latches. The raccoons’ comprehension and speed increased as they were given the test over and over again. From the results of their research, they were able to develop a “tolerable basis” for raccoon intelligence. They use this basis on a scale known as the phylogenetic scale of evolutionary development.

So how smart are raccoons? Based on old and new scientific studies, you can basically compare the level of intelligence and mental attributes of a common raccoon to that of a monkey, as they slightly surpass the intelligence of felines and canines.

What Does This Mean for the Average Person?

Raccoons are smart, and they are also a common pest. Combined, raccoons can be quite the threat to your property in many ways. Not only are raccoons intelligent and have good memory capacity, they have human-like paws that allow them to grip, grasp, pry, and open things, including window screens and door knobs!

Raccoons can cause a lot structural damage and lawn damage in search of food and shelter, but they are also known carriers of several infectious diseases, from lice to rabies. For this reason, it is best to keep them off of your property. Read our blog, “How to Keep Raccoons Away From Your House” to learn how to do your part.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons in Kentucky

Call 502-553-7622 if you are experiencing raccoon problems in Louisville, Kentucky. We offer residential and commercial raccoon removal and 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 home owners’ insurance claim work. Request a free estimate or advice, anytime. Request a free estimate, anytime.

Is a Raccoon a Rodent?

Posted on April 22, 2019 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Uh oh! You found a colony of raccoons living in or around your property! But before you pick up the phone to contact a local pest control company, you should know that raccoons are not rodents. You see, a rodent can be loosely defined as an animal with a pair of solid, growing incisors in both the upper and lower jaw, such as a mouse, rat, or hamster. A raccoon, on the other hand, is a meat-eating animal that lacks this characteristic set of incisors; so they are not in fact, rodents.

For this reason, if you were to contact the pest control company after discovering raccoons in the attic, they will quickly refer you to the proper authorities, which is generally a local wildlife rescue and control service that retains the proper state permits to extract and transport wild animals, like raccoons, legally.

Continue reading to learn why a raccoon is not considered a rodent, but rather, a nuisance animal, and what you can do to safely eliminate the threat of raccoon activity on your property.

Louisville Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

The Common Raccoon (Procyon Lotor)

The Common Raccoon, also known as the North American Raccoon, is a medium-sized mammal. They are of course, part of the animal kingdom, as well as, the Chordata phylum, Mammalian class, Carnivora order, Procyonidae family, and Procyon genus, all giving them their species name, Procyon Lotor.

As for food, theirs tends to vary from season to season, but typically they will eat anything from insects, fruits and nuts to small reptiles, amphibians, birds and other vertebrates. One of the reasons we usually find raccoons going through our trash after dark is because they are nocturnal and sleep during the day. Raccoons are very intelligent, and like humans, have paws with 5 digits. These paws are capable of grasping and prying, just like ours!

Risks and Threats

Although raccoons are not rodents, they are still considered nuisance wildlife because they are known carriers of infectious diseases that can be dangerous for humans and pets. They also cause structural and landscaping damage that can be costly and tedious to repair. So if you have a raccoon problem on your property, contact a local wildlife removal and control company to have them safely and humanely removed. If you suspect you might have raccoons in the attic, call a professional service immediately to avoid further damages and costly repairs.

24 Hour Raccoon Removal and Control

Will Raccoons Hurt My Cat?

Posted on April 8, 2019 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

If you have outdoor pets, especially cats, wildlife interference is something to seriously consider. Cats are more prone to animal confrontations since they can jump and climb onto structures that dogs and other pets cannot reach. As a result, cats are often at the forefront of risky wild animal interloping. If you have noticed raccoons around your property in the dusk or dawn hours, it is strongly recommended to keep your cats indoors overnight. If your cats use a pet door that allows them to come and go as they please, be sure to lock it at night so they cannot exit the home.

Continue reading to learn more about the dangers of raccoon and cat conflicts, including various safety and prevention tips.

Raccoon Attacks

Raccoons have long, sharp teeth and claws. These features alone make them a danger to both people and pets. Furthermore, raccoons are known carriers of several infectious diseases, viruses, parasites, and more; some of which are fatal, like Rabies. When it comes to cats, unfortunately they are common victims of raccoon attacks since they can climb, jump, and claw much like a raccoon. Cats often find themselves face to face with a raccoon on top of roofs, in trees, around dumpsters, and more. And since both species are naturally aggressive and territorial, fights to occur.

What To Do

If your cat is every attacked by a raccoon, take it to the emergency vet clinic immediately. They will provide all the necessary testing and treatment needed for open wounds and potential viral transmissions. Otherwise, be sure to have your pets properly vaccinated on an annual basis to keep them protected from dangerous diseases and viruses. See our blog, “What You Need to Know About Rabies Vaccinations” to learn more.

Raccoon Prevention

Pet vaccinations are just the first step to preventing raccoon conflicts with your pet. In order to truly keep your loved ones and your property protected, you must get rid of the raccoons. There are several things you can do on your own to help reduce raccoon activity around your property. Read our blog, “How to Keep Raccoons Away From Your House” for some helpful DIY tips. However, the most effective solution is to contact a licensed Louisville raccoon removal and control company for safe and humane assistance you can trust. They will implement safe and effective strategies to keep raccoons from returning and posing a threat.

Louisville Raccoon Control

If you are experiencing raccoon problems, let us help. We offer 24 hour raccoon removal, as well as, raccoon proofing and prevention, minor restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon cleanup, and much more. We are DNR licensed and insured, and provide both residential and commercial raccoon control services in Louisville, Kentucky and throughout its surrounding areas. Call us directly at 502-553-7622 to request a free estimate or advice, today.

Choosing Between a Liquid or Granular Repellent for Raccoons

Posted on March 12, 2019 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

When nuisance raccoons have you feeling hopeless and helpless, perhaps it is time to consider your options for safe and humane raccoon control. There are several things you can do to make your property less attractive to raccoons, primarily environmental modifications like removing food and water sources, locking up trashcans, planting cucumbers or marigolds, and installing garden fences. In fact, read our blog, “How to Keep Raccoons Away From Your House” to learn all the things you can do to help thwart nuisance raccoon activity on your property.

As an option for environmental modification, many homeowners are opting for a more instant solution to repel nuisance raccoons, which is why store-bought repellents are becoming more and more popular these days. Of such repellents, your two umbrella options will be to choose between a liquid-based formula and a granule-based formula. Before choosing a product and implementing an application, be sure to learn your facts about both types of repellents.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about liquid and granule raccoon repellent products, as well as, how to make your own, homemade, non-toxic raccoon repellent.

Liquid Repellents

Liquid repellents come in liquid form, and are generally intended to be mixed with water to create a spray-able solution. This allows you to target specific areas, like bird feeders, play sets, trashcans, windows, compost piles, and more. It can also be used to create an invisible perimeter around your entire property, which is best implemented with a sprayer, but generally, granule repellents are best for that job.

Granule Repellents

Granule repellent products come in granules, like little beads or balls. These are meant to be sprinkled or dusted around the perimeter of your yard, garden, or other infested area to create a defense barrier against nuisance raccoons and other intervening wildlife. Although effective, it is not recommended for those who have outdoor pets or children. These granules can cause illness if ingested by dogs, cats, or children.

Homemade, Non-Toxic Raccoon Repellent

To avoid potential hazards associated with chemical repellents, you might want to try making your own homemade solution using common household ingredients like cayenne pepper and garlic. Read our article, “How to Make a Safe Raccoon Repellent” to learn what you need and how to get started. You will discover which scents and tastes raccoons hate, and how to apply them safely to your property without jeopardizing the health and well-being of your loved ones, including pets!

Safe Raccoon Removal and Control in Louisville

Call us today at 502-553-7622 for professional Louisville raccoon removal and control services today. 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 to request a free estimate or information about Louisville raccoon control, today.

FAQS About Raccoon Removal and Control

Posted on January 17, 2019 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

The evidence of nuisance raccoon activity is usually very obvious. Raccoons leave behind recognizable clues that give away their presence. Paw prints, droppings, rummaged trash, and more are all signs that suggest you may have raccoons in or around your house. It is vital to act fast when you are faced with possible raccoon problems.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about getting rid of nuisance raccoons, safely and humanely.

Urban Raccoon nesting under a residential home

Are Raccoons Dangerous?

First and foremost, raccoons are known carriers of several viruses and infectious diseases, including serious ones like Rabies, Leptospirosis, Distemper, and raccoon roundworm, as well as less serious ones, like lice, fleas, ticks, and more. This alone makes them a danger to both people and pets. To make matters worse, raccoons may attack a person or animal if they feel threatened or provoked. This is a common way Rabies and other infectious diseases are passed along by raccoons. It is important to never approach or tamper with a raccoon under any circumstances.

How Did Raccoons Get Inside My House?

Raccoons have very dexterous, human-like paws that allow them to grasp and manipulate objects. They use this ability to pry their way into attics by ripping away roof shingles and prying open weakened wood boards. Roof top areas near the gutter is a common place for raccoons to look for entry points into a house. They have been known to tear off metal flashing components on the edge of roofs to expose openings beneath shingles and plywood. They are also known to scope out vulnerable or weak areas of a home they can easily pry open to get inside.

What Do I Do if There is a Raccoon in My Garage?

Never, under any circumstances, attempt to approach, touch, trap, or tamper with a wild raccoon. If one gets trapped in your garage, shed, or other exterior-attached area of your house, just open the doors and wait for them to leave. If they do not leave after 12 hours, contact a local and licensed raccoon removal company for 24 hour emergency assistance.

Will Raccoons Damage My House?

Raccoons that have made their way into a house can cause a significant amount of damage. The combination of their urine, droppings, and rotted food creates an odorous mess that can make its way into the living quarters of your home. Additionally, they can use their human-like paws to grasp, rip, and pry. They tear down attic insulation, chew up electrical wiring, soil floorboards and ceilings with their droppings, and more. However, even if raccoons cannot access the inner parts of a home or building, they can still cause a load of structural damages to a property. They will tear up lawns looking for grubs, wipe out gardens, pry off siding, rip off roof shingles, rummage through garbage cans, steal bird seed and pet food, and so much more. Really, the extent of damage raccoons can cause to your property are endless, whether inside or out.

How Can I Prevent Raccoon Activity Around My House?

In order to thwart raccoon activity around your property, you will need to follow some important guidelines: Keep garbage cans locked up, or keep the lids sealed shut, and only take your cans out to the driveway on the morning of trash pickup day, and never the night before. Never leave pet food or water bowls outside. If you store pet food a garage or shed, be sure it is in an air-tight container and your garage or shed is non-accessible by animals. Install motion lighting on patios, porches, and garages. Or consider installing a sound machine to scare raccoons away. Install a fence around gardens. Keep trash and litter out of your yard. Sprinkle your yard with ground red pepper, and then soak cotton balls with ammonia and place them around your property. Be care if you have outdoor pets. Remove bird and squirrel feeders, as well as, bird baths. Pass up on the Koi pond. They will eat your expensive fish! Have a professional raccoon control company inspect your property for vulnerable areas, and allow them to seal everything up!

Where Can I Get Affordable Raccoon Removal and Control in Louisville?

Call 502-553-7622 for Louisville raccoon removal and control services you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured raccoon removal and control experts with over 25 years of experience in the raccoon industry. We have all the latest technologies and equipment to carry out safe and humane raccoon control and cleanup jobs. Request a free estimate, today.

4 Ways to Keep Raccoons Out of Trashcans

Posted on September 24, 2018 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Raccoons love a free meal. And your garbage provides them this privilege every night. To make matters worse, raccoons are smart, and will remember where all the good food spots are at. This means they will continue to rummage your trashcans, spreading garbage all over the place, unless you finally take matters into your own hands.

Continue reading to learn 4 safe and humane tricks to keep raccoons out of trashcans.

Louisville Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

Keep in mind that raccoons are nocturnal, so they are most active between the hours of dusk and dawn. While you sleep is when they make their massive mess all over your lawn and driveway. So in order to combat their destruction, you must do something that will prevent them from accessing your garbage behind your back. T

he best method for this is to simply keep your trashcans in an enclosed space, like a garage or shed, and only take them out on the morning on trash collection day. If there are no trashcans to rummage, raccoons will move on to the next easily-accessible food source.

If keep your trashcans enclosed in a garage or shed is not an option, there are still some other things you can try. Here are 4 effective methods for protecting your trashcans from raccoons:

❶ Bungee Cords and Lid Locks

Raccoons have human-like paws that are highly dexterous. Opening doors and lids is not a challenge for them at all, which is why you need to lock them down tight. Use some standard 24 inch bungee cords with hooks at each end to keep your trashcan lids secured overnight. You can also purchase trashcan lid locks, which may be available at your local home improvement store.

❷ Ammonia

If you want to keep raccoons and other nuisance animals (like dogs) away from your trash, sprinkle each bag with a few dashes of ammonia. Ammonia is the common chemical found in urine. Raccoons will avoid the smell of ammonia because it will tell them that the area is soiled. It will trick them into thinking the area is ruined. Just be careful handling ammonia, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

❸ Talk Radio

Have you ever tried to approach a wild animal? They usually run away before you can get too close. Raccoons are just like most other animals; they avoid threats and potential predators, which would be us. If you place a boom box set on a talk radio station next to the garbage cans, it will trick raccoons into thinking there are humans nearby; so they will not come close. After a few nights or so, they will remember that your garbage is near humans, and will stop coming around.

❹ String Lights

Another element that scares away raccoons is lack of privacy. You can install motion-detection lighting outside to flash on when animals scurry by, but this can sometimes be costly. As a cheaper alternative, try streaming string lights (i.e. Christmas lights) around the basin of the trashcans. The added lighting will turn raccoons off from your property because they do not have a safe place to rummage in the dark.

Nothing Work for You? Contact a Pro

Louisville Raccoon Removal 502-553-7622

If you are experiencing raccoon problems, let us help. We offer 24 hour raccoon removal, as well as, raccoon proofing and prevention, minor restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon cleanup, and much more. We are DNR licensed and insured, and provide both residential and commercial raccoon control services in Louisville, Kentucky and throughout its surrounding areas. Call our office directly at 502-553-7622 to request a free estimate or advice, today.

Are Raccoons Actually Dangerous?

Posted on January 9, 2017 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Spotting a wild raccoon can be startling, especially if they are seen on your own property. Raccoons are wild animals, and should not be trusted. To say they are dangerous might be an over exaggeration; however, that does not mean they are safe. Continue reading to learn the safety concerns associated with wild raccoons, and how to handle a raccoon encounter if you are ever face to face with one.

Raccoons Can Carry Diseases

One major safety concern with raccoons, or any wild animal, is the possibility that they may be carrying an infectious disease. Raccoons are known to be carriers of various bacterial and viral infections. Rabies, Canine Distemper, Parvo, and Leptospirosis are among a few of the most common diseases they can carry. With one bite or claw scratch, a raccoon can pass these infections to children, adults, and even pets. This is just one other reason to steer clear of wild animals, including raccoons.

Raccoons Can Show Aggression

Although raccoons are not known to attack humans and other animals without provocation, it is not beyond their animal capabilities. If a raccoon feels threatened, or feels their young are in danger, they can attack. Raccoons have long sharp teeth and claws that can be fatal for small outdoor pets such as cats and dogs. They can also bite, passing on infectious diseases like the ones mentioned above. Their saliva and urine are danger zones for disease, and they can use both of these as self-defense against a
human or other animal. So do not provoke
or even approach a wild raccoon.

How to Protect Yourself from Wild Raccoons

If you frequently see wild raccoons on your property, either rummaging through garbage or grub hunting in the backyard; be sure to call a professional for advice. A professional animal control technician, especially one that specializes in raccoons, can offer accurate and helpful advice and services for raccoon removal and prevention. These experts retain the proper tools and equipment to facilitate a safe and effective raccoon removal job, fast.

They can also diagnose what may be attracting the raccoons to your property, and eliminate any future problems. Experience and industry knowledge are crucial when it comes to getting rid of raccoons on residential properties, which is why it is highly recommended to consult a professional for help with a raccoon problem. It can be very dangerous dealing with raccoons without the proper gear, equipment, and training.

Louisville Raccoon Removal

Call 502-553-76622 for Louisville raccoon removal you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured raccoon control experts with over 20 years of experience in the raccoon industry. We have all the latest technologies and equipment to carry out safe and humane raccoon control and cleanup jobs. Call 502-553-76622 to speak with a live raccoon control specialist today! Request a free estimate for raccoon removal in Louisville, Kentucky and its surrounding areas.

Call Raccoon Removal Louisville for Affordable Pre-Winter Nuisance Wildlife Prevention

Posted on November 9, 2016 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Raccoon-Proofing and Control at a Great Price!

Raccoon Removal Louisville wants to help you get your home and surrounding property prepared for nuisance animal activity and damage. This time of year, nuisance animals like raccoons, bats, skunks, opossum, squirrels, and more, are in serious hunt-mode for a place to nest and hibernate for the winter. They find small openings in roofs, soffits, planks, siding, and more, and then access the inner areas of your home, such as attics, crawl spaces, porches, walls, and more. It is critical to the structural integrity and safety of your home to have any vulnerable areas sealed and protected before wild animals stop by your house for a look around!

But it’s not just the inside you have to worry about, wild raccoons will also trespass and damage your exterior property if there is something there they want. Raccoon-proofing and control is the best strategy for preventing raccoon problems, infestations, and costly repairs. For this reason, it is important to have us implement a few other preventative methods, including free raccoon control advice.

Why Should You Choose Us?

Residential and Commercial Raccoon Control!

Here at Raccoon Removal Louisville, we are licensed by the Department of Natural Resources and retain decades of experience in the wildlife rescue and control industry. Our company offers a wide range of residential and commercial raccoon control services, including raccoon removal, extraction, exclusion, cleanup, and even minor restorations for raccoon damages. When it comes to raccoon proofing, we make sure all openings and vulnerabilities are sealed up before the dead of winter is here! Call 502-553-7622 to speak with a licensed contractor about raccoon removal and control in Louisville, Kentucky today.

Although We Remove Raccoons, We Love and Support Them!

Posted on September 16, 2016 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

It is common for people to misunderstand the stance of those who work for raccoon removal companies. Many believe that wildlife removal contractors are the bad guys, and only wish to get rid of raccoons in a lethal or inhumane way. But this is far from the truth! Wildlife removal contractors want nothing more than the preservation and protection of wild animals, especially raccoons! That is why they are commonly referred to as wildlife “rescue” and control companies. Their intentions are nothing but good, and their stance on wildlife is not what many assume.

We Believe They are Innocent

Raccoons, and other wild animals, are becoming more and more of a nuisance in urban and suburban areas, but this is not their fault! And wildlife control contractors know this and believe this. Over-development, and other environmental factors, have pushed animals out of their natural habits, thus forcing them to find food, water, and shelter where they can. And they can usually find it right in our very own communities. So in essence, it’s actually our own fault that raccoons are becoming an increasing nuisance.

We Use Safe, Humane, and Non-Lethal Methods

Since raccoons can cause a tremendous amount of mess and damage, and even carry infectious diseases, you don’t want them inside your home or commercial building. And that is one of the main purposes of a wildlife control specialist. We make sure raccoons are removed safely and humanely by using safe and non-lethal methods of raccoon extraction. Then we comfortably relocate them to a far-away habitat that’s safer for them to live. We never harm or kill raccoons under any circumstances. The safety and comfort of our clients is the other reason we do what we do. We want to make sure both raccoons and humans are protected from each other.

We Support Preservation and Protection

Raccoons do not deserve to be mistreated in any way. We promote the preservation and safety of the raccoon population, and remain committed to spreading that message as often as possible. We strongly advocate that no one should ever trap, harm, or kill raccoons. And if anyone wants to hunt raccoons for food and pelt, we encourage them to respect all hunting laws and regulations. Raccoons are highly-intelligent creatures with exceptional memories and unique personalities. In fact, you can think of a raccoon just like a dog, but wild. They are smart, curious, and of course, very cute! So we aim to protect raccoons with safe and humane raccoon removal services. But we also aim to protect property owners from the dangers that raccoons pose to our health and homes.

Louisville Raccoon Removal

If you are experiencing raccoon problems, let us help. We offer 24 hour emergency raccoon removal, as well as, raccoon proofing and prevention, minor restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon cleanup, and much more. We are DNR licensed and insured, and provide both residential and commercial raccoon control services. Call our office directly at 502-553-7622 for prompt and professional Louisville raccoon removal you can trust.

Can You Cook and Eat Wild Raccoons?

Posted on June 15, 2016 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

While catching wildlife in your backyard and eating it for dinner may seem like an extreme means of obtaining food for your family, many people across the country have been practicing this custom for as long as mankind has hunted and gathered in North America. In fact, wild raccoon is a common dish in many parts of the world too. But even though raccoon is technically edible, does this mean that you should trap a raccoon on your property and eat it for supper? The answer is no. Continue reading to learn more about raccoons as food, and the safest way to try it.

Raccoon for Dinner

Raccoons in the wild are known carriers of the Rabies virus, as well as, several other infectious diseases. They are also hosts for fleas, ticks, lice, and more. For these reasons, it is not safe to trap a wild coon in your yard, prepare it, and eat it for a meal. It is also illegal in Indiana to hunt or trap wildlife without a valid Indiana hunting license. If you are serious about eating raccoon, it is best to go about it in a safer and more legal way.

Indiana Raccoon Hunting Season

If you like the idea if hunting and catching your own raccoon, you can obtain an Indiana hunting permit and begin as soon as the season is upon us. Raccoon hunting season in Indiana starts in November and ends in January. You can explore the regulations for raccoon hunting, and make bonds with fellow experienced coon hunters that can show you the ropes and teach you about cooking raccoons.

Finding Raccoon Meat

If you are not interested in hunting raccoons, you can try a restaurant that serves wild game like raccoon, squirrel, rabbit, opossum, and more. If there are no restaurants like this around your area, you can look for a butcher shop that can order wild or specialty game for you. This way, you know the meat is FDA approved and safe to consume. You can always track down a raccoon eating festival too. Minnesota has a famous annual raccoon cook out called Delafield Coon Feed.

Raccoon Removal and Control in Louisville

If you have raccoon problems on your property, we can help! Call 502-553-7622 for safe and humane raccoon removal and control in Louisville, Kentucky and its surrounding areas. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife contractors that provide a wide range of non-lethal raccoon control services, including raccoon removal and raccoon cleanup. We also provide effective solutions for raccoon prevention. Call 502-553-7622 when you need prompt and professional Louisville raccoon removal you can afford.