Raccoons are those cute, masked bandits we often see in movies and cartoons. But in real life, having too many raccoons in your backyard can be a big problem! They can make a mess, damage your garden, and even spread diseases.
Imagine waking up one morning to find your trash cans tipped over, your pet’s food bowl empty, and little raccoon footprints all over your patio. Not a fun sight, right?
This guide will show you how to get rid of too many raccoons without harming them. We’ll look at why they might be attracted to your yard, how to make your property less inviting, and smart ways to encourage them to move elsewhere. Let’s learn how to keep your home and garden safe while being kind to these clever creatures.
Understanding Why You Have Too Many Raccoons
Before we start getting rid of raccoons, it’s important to understand why they’re visiting in the first place. Raccoons are smart animals, and they’re always on the lookout for food, water, and shelter. Here are some things that might be attracting them to your yard:
- Easy Food Sources: Raccoons love pet food, bird feeders, fallen fruit, and unsecured garbage cans. If you leave these things out in the open, you’re practically inviting raccoons to dinner!
- Water Sources: Like all animals, raccoons need water to survive. Birdbaths, ponds, and even leaky faucets can be a big draw for thirsty raccoons.
- Cozy Shelters: Raccoons are always looking for safe places to raise their families. Attics, sheds, and spaces under decks can make perfect raccoon homes.
How to Get Rid of Too Many Raccoons Humanely
Now that you know why raccoons might be hanging around, let’s look at some humane ways to get rid of them:
Make Your Yard Less Inviting
- Secure Your Trash: Invest in raccoon-proof trash cans or secure your existing cans with bungee cords.
- Protect Pet Food: Don’t leave pet food outside, especially overnight. Feed your pets indoors or bring their bowls inside after they’re finished eating.
- Remove Fallen Fruit: Pick up any fallen fruit from your trees regularly. Ripe fruit is like candy to raccoons!
- Clean Up Bird Feeders: Bird feeders can be a major attractant for raccoons. Choose feeders that are designed to be raccoon-resistant, or hang them from high wires that raccoons can’t reach.
Use Repellents
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These sprinklers will give raccoons a harmless but startling spray of water when they enter your yard.
- Ultrasonic Devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to raccoons but can’t be heard by humans.
- Natural Repellents: Some people have success using natural repellents like ammonia-soaked rags, garlic, or peppermint oil. However, these methods may not be as effective as other options.
| Repellent Type | How it Works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motion-Activated Sprinklers | Detects movement and sprays water | Effective, humane | Can be triggered by other animals, may not work in all weather conditions |
| Ultrasonic Devices | Emits high-frequency sounds | Humane, covers a wide area | Effectiveness varies, may not work on all raccoons |
| Natural Repellents | Strong odors deter raccoons | Usually inexpensive, readily available | May need frequent reapplication, effectiveness varies |
Exclusion Devices
- Chimney Caps: Prevent raccoons from entering your home through the chimney by installing a chimney cap.
- Hardware Cloth: Use hardware cloth to seal off any openings around your house, such as gaps under decks or sheds.
- One-Way Doors: These devices allow raccoons to leave your attic or other enclosed spaces but prevent them from getting back in.
Trapping and Relocation
Trapping can be an effective way to remove raccoons, but it’s important to do it humanely and legally. Here are some guidelines:
- Use Live Traps: Avoid using lethal traps. Live traps capture raccoons alive without harming them.
- Check Traps Frequently: Check your traps at least twice a day to prevent the trapped animal from suffering.
- Relocate Raccoons Properly: Relocate trapped raccoons to a suitable habitat, following your local laws and regulations. Contact your local animal control or wildlife agency for guidance.
| Trapping Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Bait | Use strong-smelling baits like canned tuna, wet cat food, or marshmallows. |
| Location | Place traps in areas where you see raccoon activity. |
| Safety | Wear gloves when handling traps to avoid disease transmission. |
Important Note: Always check your local laws and regulations regarding raccoon trapping and relocation. In some areas, it may be illegal to relocate raccoons yourself.
Preventing Future Raccoon Problems
Once you’ve successfully gotten rid of the raccoons, you’ll want to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are some tips:
- Maintain a Clean Yard: Keep your yard free of food debris and clutter.
- Secure Food Sources: Continue to store your trash properly and keep pet food indoors.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Trim tree branches and shrubs away from your house to prevent raccoons from gaining access to your roof or attic.
- Regular Inspections: Inspect your property regularly for any signs of raccoon activity, such as droppings or damage.
Coexisting with Raccoons
While it’s important to manage raccoon populations, remember that they play a role in the ecosystem. They help control rodent populations and disperse seeds. By taking some simple precautions and using humane methods, you can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures.
Summary: How to Get Rid of Too Many Raccoons
Dealing with too many raccoons can be a challenge, but it’s possible to manage the problem effectively and humanely. By understanding why raccoons are attracted to your yard, you can take steps to make it less inviting.
Secure your trash, protect pet food, and remove other food sources. Consider using repellents, exclusion devices, or trapping and relocation as needed. Remember to follow local laws and regulations when dealing with wildlife. By taking preventative measures and coexisting peacefully, you can enjoy your backyard without unwanted raccoon visitors.
FAQs
How do I know if I have raccoons in my attic?
You might hear noises like scratching, scurrying, or vocalizations coming from your attic, especially at night. You might also see droppings, damage to insulation, or evidence of entry points around your roof or eaves.
What should I do if I find a baby raccoon?
If you find a baby raccoon that appears to be orphaned or injured, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. Do not attempt to handle the raccoon yourself.
Are raccoons dangerous?
Raccoons can carry diseases like rabies and leptospirosis. It’s important to avoid direct contact with raccoons and their droppings. If you are bitten or scratched by a raccoon, seek medical attention immediately.
Is it legal to shoot raccoons?
Laws regarding the control of raccoons vary by location. In some areas, it may be legal to shoot raccoons under certain circumstances, while in others it is strictly prohibited. Check with your local wildlife agency for specific regulations.
What smells do raccoons hate?
Raccoons have a strong sense of smell, and certain odors can deter them. Some common raccoon repellents include ammonia, garlic, peppermint oil, and predator urine (such as coyote urine).