Raccoons

What Are Raccoons?

Due to the distinctive black mask of fur around their eyes, raccoons are fairly easy to recognize and identify. They are a medium-size mammal (similar in size to a house cat) that is black and grey in color with a ringed tail. They are nocturnal animals that rely heavily on us for food and even shelter. They eat a wide range of food including meats, fish, pet food, seeds, insects, fruits, vegetables, and whatever else they can find in your trash. Raccoons can be found living in both urban and rural areas.

Things You Should Know:

• Raccoons are nocturnal.
• Raccoons are aggressive and will bite if they feel threatened.
• They are smart pests and can be very destructive to properties.

Why Are They In My House?

Raccoons are often first attracted to homes because of easy food sources that they find like dog or cat food and unsecured trash cans. They will then make their way into your home during the winter months in order to have a warm place to live and nest in that is in close proximity to their food source. Come springtime, if your raccoon problem has not been eliminated, your home, or more likely your attic, can become filled with baby raccoons.

Are Raccoons Dangerous?

Yes, raccoons are considered to be dangerous animals. Raccoons may look cute and cuddly but they can become aggressive if they feel cornered or threatened (especially mama), and will not hesitate to bite or scratch. Along with being aggressive, raccoons are carriers of rabies, making a scratch or bite from this animal even more dangerous. Raccoons are also destructive to properties; they can damage homes and other buildings both inside and out.

What Does It Take To Get Rid Of Raccoons?

The best way to get rid of raccoons is to call a professional wildlife removal expert. These pests can be aggressive and dangerous and cause injury to people if not properly handled. At Parkway our technicians have the experience and training necessary to safely remove raccoons from your property. For more information about our humane raccoon removal services, contact our professionals at Parkway Pest Services.

How Can I Prevent A Future Infestation?

Preventing raccoons or any wildlife pest can be a difficult task but there are some things that you can do around your home to help prevent them. Make sure that trash cans have a secure lid on them and that they are stored away from the exterior of your home. If you have a compost area, make sure that it is kept a distance away from your home. Always pick up uneaten dog or cat food that is kept outside; never leave it out overnight. Make sure that your chimney has a secure cap on it and that any loose or missing roof shingles are replaced. Also having a home pest protection plan from Parkway Pest Services will help to give you the peace of mind that raccoons and other pests will be controlled in and around your home.

Helpful Articles About Raccoons

• The Best Way To Keep Long Island Raccoons Away From My Home