How to Keep Raccoons Away

Raccoons may seem harmless and even charming, but they can become a real headache for homeowners when they invade your space. These nocturnal creatures are not only persistent in their search for food but can also cause substantial damage to property and pose health risks. At Hopper Termite & Pest, we specialize in humane and effective methods to keep these unwanted guests at bay. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into proven strategies on how to keep raccoons away, ensuring your property remains safe and secure. 

Understanding Raccoon Behavior

Raccoons are adaptable, intelligent, and highly curious animals, often seen as urban survivors. They have a strong sense of smell and are attracted to any potential food sources. Their nimble paws allow them to manipulate objects and open containers, which is why they often get into trash cans and food storage areas. Understanding these behaviors is the first step in developing an effective prevention strategy. 

Securing Food Sources

1. Trash Management

Raccoons often rummage through trash to find food, making unsecured trash cans a prime target. To combat this, use cans with locking lids or secure them with heavy-duty bungee cords. Additionally, storing trash cans in a locked shed or garage until the morning of trash collection can minimize the chances of raccoon interference. 

2. Pet Food Practices

Outdoor feeding of pets can attract unwanted wildlife. Always feed pets inside or ensure that outdoor feeding areas are clean and free of food scraps after meals. Elevated feeding stations may also discourage raccoons, but removing food sources is the most effective method. 

3. Bird Feeders

Bird feeders attract raccoons with their seeds and accessible locations. To prevent this, opt for bird feeders with a baffle to make it difficult for raccoons to climb or hang them far from trees or structures. Cleaning up spilled seeds and debris regularly can also reduce the attraction. 

Fortifying Your Home

1. Close Entry Points

Inspect your home meticulously for cracks, holes, and other openings. Raccoons can enter through small gaps, so it is important to seal them with sturdy materials. Pay special attention to areas such as roof soffits, eave gaps, and foundation flaws where raccoons are likely to attempt reentry. 

2. Chimney and Vent Covers

Secure your home’s chimneys and external vents with strong, durable covers. Raccoons are excellent climbers and can easily scale walls to access these points. Ensure that all covers are securely fastened to prevent displacement by curious or determined raccoons. 

Repellents and Deterrents

1. Motion-Activated Sprinklers

Installing motion-activated sprinklers can be a highly effective way to scare racoons away from your garden or lawn. The sudden motion and sprinkling water mimic the presence of a predator, creating an uncomfortable environment for raccoons. 

2. Lights and Sounds

Utilize motion-activated lights to startle raccoons during their nocturnal activities. The lights make the area less appealing, mimicking the exposure they’d face from predators. Periodic noises from a radio or sound-emitting devices can also make the environment less inviting. 

3. Natural Repellents

Ammonia and cayenne pepper are commonly used to deter raccoons. Place ammonia-soaked rags in areas of frequent raccoon activity, or sprinkle cayenne around your property’s perimeter to create a repellent barrier. Remember, these methods require maintenance as the elements can dilute their effectiveness. 

Professional Wildlife Control

Sometimes, despite all efforts, professional intervention may be necessary, especially if raccoons repeatedly invade your space or establish a nest. Wildlife control professionals can remove raccoons safely and suggest long-term prevention strategies, including structural modifications and habitat alteration. 

Contact Hopper Termite & Pest Today

Managing raccoon issues effectively combines proactive prevention with responsive strategies when they intrude on your territory. At Hopper Termite & Pest, we provide expert advice and professional services tailored to your unique needs, from wildlife to common pest concerns. For persistent problems or to secure your property from raccoons and other pests, contact our expert teams at our Springdale office (479) 750-4070 or Mountain Home office at (870) 425-4122. Trust us to keep your home safe and serene with our comprehensive pest control solutions.