We are glad your search for “How to Get Rid of Raccoons” led you to Northern Colorado Pest and Wildlife Control. We understand pests and wildlife, their behaviors, and how to rid your property of them. And more importantly, we know how to keep them from returning. Schedule an appointment with our team of professionals today to re-take control of your valuable property.
When you need to know how to get rid of raccoons, you should act strategically
You have your work cut out for you in your quest for how to get rid of raccoons. You will need to think strategically and protect yourself and your family and be consistent with your methods. When raccoons are attracted to your property you need to understand what you are doing to invite them in. As with other wildlife, raccoons are motivated by their bellies and need to find a safe space to live. Many times, it is as simple as leaving dog food outside, or a splurge-worthy compost pile that tempts the critters to your yard. You may have a cozy deck, which provides solid cover to nest with their babies. Maybe you left your trash can outside overnight to anticipate your scheduled trash day.
Do not underestimate what raccoons can do to damage your property
No wonder you are looking for a good idea on how to get rid of raccoons. Raccoons are nimble and strong little creatures. They use their paws to tear open crevices and doors, and frankly, any opening they can find. They can easily open a trash can. Have you ever seen one move into your attic by breaking open your vents? But stop before you go spend your money on the best raccoon repellent for attics. At Northern Colorado Pest & Wildlife Control, our team specializes in the entire removal experience. We will not only humanely remove them from your property, but we will work with you to seal those openings that led to their unwanted entry in the first place.
We know it might sound strange to worry about “humanely” removing raccoons when you were only wondering how to get rid of raccoons naturally. Do not seek to learn what scent will keep raccoons away, or wonder, “Will bleach keep raccoons away?” Remember, whatever you apply to the ground in terms of scents or repellants, it also will expose you, your family, and your pets. You also must check with the local authorities to determine whether you can use toxic substances when you need to know how to get rid of raccoons.
The pros and cons of raccoons you should know
Strangely, raccoons have a purpose. It is hard to imagine raccoons as a vital part of any ecosystem, especially when they dig through your trash or move in and damage your home. But they do have a role of spreading seeds throughout their ecosystem and helping control the population of rodents, according to the Raccoon Ecology and Damage Management white paper from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. They also serve as prey for larger animals such as coyotes.
Unfortunately, raccoons also are one of the classic carriers of rabies, and they are hosts to the raccoon ground worm that can be spread through their feces, according to the National Wildlife Control Training Program.
Prevention is the key. Here are seven easy steps homeowners can practice to help keep raccoons away from their property:
- Secure Your Trash: Raccoons are attracted to easily accessible food sources. Use raccoon-proof trash cans with tight-fitting lids and consider using bungee cords or weights to further secure them. Regularly clean your trash area to minimize odors that may attract raccoons.
- Eliminate Outdoor Food Sources: Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight, as raccoons are opportunistic feeders. Additionally, clean up fallen fruits or birdseed from the ground, as these can also attract raccoons.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your property for any potential entry points such as gaps in the attic, holes in the roof, or broken vents. Seal these openings using sturdy materials like wire mesh or hardware cloth to prevent raccoons from entering your home.
- Install Fencing: Consider installing a sturdy fence around your property to deter raccoons. Make sure the fence is at least four feet high and extends underground by burying it or attaching an apron of wire mesh to prevent raccoons from digging underneath.
- Secure Pet Doors: Raccoons can squeeze through small openings, including pet doors. Install a lock or barrier that can be activated at night to prevent raccoons from entering your home through pet access points.
- Trim Overhanging Trees: Raccoons are excellent climbers. Trim tree branches that may provide access to your roof or other vulnerable areas of your property. Aim to maintain a distance of at least ten feet between trees and your house.
- Use Deterrents: Raccoons can be discouraged by using certain deterrents. For example, motion-activated lights and sprinkler systems can startle and discourage them from approaching your property.
At Northern Colorado Pest and Wildlife Control, we believe strongly in education and working with our clients as partners. We have been safely removing wildlife and helping property owners keep their property safe from all types of critters for almost 20 years. Learn more about us and the many other pest and wildlife control services we offer.
Our technicians are proud of the work they do
At Northern Colorado Pest and Wildlife Control, our goal is to provide excellent service to our clients, and often, they leave us five-star reviews, such as these:
“Brandon was patient in addressing all my questions and concerns. He was personable and professional. Just as important, the pest problem was eliminated.” — Lisa Klink
“Brandon was kind, patient, and thorough! He took the time to listen to us and then did a thorough job of checking for all types of critters. He was never rushed and was always right on time for appointments. The office staff scheduled appointments that worked with MY schedule and would text a reminder the day before! They were also kind and polite! My “critter” situation was resolved to my satisfaction! I would ABSOLUTELY recommend Northern Colorado Pest & Wildlife Control! And, if needed, I will use them again!” — Rebecca Horn
Northern Colorado Pest and Wildlife Control provides fast and courteous responses to our customers’ needs. We specialize in a wide range of pest control and wildlife control services. We serve Denver: north to Wyoming including Fort Collins, Eaton, Greeley, Evans, Windsor, Loveland, LaSalle, Johnstown, Milliken, Berthoud, Longmont, Boulder, Louisville, Superior, Lafayette, Thornton, Lakewood, Golden, Westminster, Denver, Aurora and surrounding cities.
