Raccoons are one of nature’s most clever mammals which retain some superlative survival skills. Several features and characteristics of a home can be attractive to a wild raccoon. Harsh weather, breeding, and pure fascination can be definite influences for raccoons to take shelter or trespass onto residential properties. Continue reading to learn some reasons why you might be spotting raccoons more frequently on your premises, and how to get rid of them for good.
Food
Raccoons are most motivated by food; just as any other wild animal. When homeowner’s leave food resources outside or in their garage, raccoons are certain to sniff it out. They are great at hunting down meals, especially ones that are easy. Edibles such as pet food, garden produce, bird feed, and even dirty grills can be desired snacks for raccoons and other wild creatures alike. If you have any of these items on your premises, it may be the reason for your late-night visitors.
Exterior pets, like cats and dogs, should be fed inside or garages. This prevents the need to leave pet dishes filled with food, outside. Raccoons love dog and cat food; it is yummy and provides nutrition and protein. If feeding a pet indoors is not an option, try procuring the food dishes at night when raccoons are active, then replace them in the morning.
Garbage
Trash and garbage cans are another possible food source for raccoons. Many folks prefer to take their trash out at night, prior to the dawn of pickup. Although this saves a few additional moments in an otherwise busy morning, it can be a main attraction for nocturnal wildlife. Raccoons have dexterous paws and long claws that allow them to clasp and grab very well. They can easily open up garbage lids and rummage through leftovers, litter, waste, and other compost. This not only leaves a mess for homeowner’s to clean up in the early hours of the morning, but it makes a rift among fellow neighbors who dislike the unsightly garbage spread throughout their curb.
Open Access
Another main attraction for raccoons is open access to shelter. Cracks and crevices in rooftops are simple entry points for raccoons. They can gain access to attics, garages, crawl spaces, and outdoor sheds and storage spaces. As mentioned earlier, harsh weather conditions and breeding season both encourage raccoons to seek shelter in dens, or in residential properties.
Memory
Raccoons will recall where reliable shelter and food sources are, and will return to them night after night. So as to eliminate raccoons from trespassing onto your property, you will need to figure out what is attracting them in the first location. These places above are a terrific place to start.