Complete Guide to Raccoon Removal: Humane Methods & Prevention Tips

When dealing with raccoon infestations, it’s crucial to employ humane methods that minimize stress and potential harm to the animals while effectively resolving the issue. This section will explore three main approaches to humane raccoon removal: exclusion techniques, live trapping, and deterrents.

A. Exclusion Techniques

Exclusion is often the most effective and humane long-term solution for raccoon problems. This method involves identifying and sealing off entry points to prevent raccoons from accessing your property.

1. Identifying Entry Points

Raccoons can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Conduct a thorough inspection of your property, paying close attention to:

• Roof lines and eaves
• Chimneys
• Attic vents
• Gaps around windows and doors
• Crawl space entrances
• Deck or porch areas

Look for signs of raccoon activity such as:

• Scratches or claw marks
• Grease marks from fur
• Damaged soffits or fascia boards
• Displaced shingles or tiles

Use this checklist to systematically inspect your property:

Area to Inspect	What to Look For
Roof	Loose or missing shingles, gaps in eaves
Chimney	Missing or damaged chimney cap
Attic	Damaged vents, gaps around pipes or cables
Foundation	Cracks or holes, especially near corners
Trees	Overhanging branches near the roof
Decks/Porches	Gaps in lattice, holes under structures

2. Sealing Off Access

Once entry points are identified, seal them using sturdy materials that raccoons can’t easily break through:

• Sheet metal
• Heavy gauge hardware cloth (at least 16 gauge)
• Steel wool (for smaller gaps)
• Concrete or masonry repair (for foundation issues)

Important considerations:

• Ensure all adult raccoons are out before sealing entrances
• Avoid sealing during baby season (typically spring to early summer)
• Use L-shaped barriers at ground level to prevent digging

3. One-Way Doors

For active entry points, install one-way doors to allow raccoons to exit but not re-enter:

1. Choose a sturdy, commercially available one-way door or construct one using heavy gauge wire mesh.
2. Install the door over the entry point, ensuring a tight fit with no gaps.
3. Leave the door in place for at least 3-5 days to ensure all raccoons have left.
4. Once you’re certain no raccoons remain, remove the door and permanently seal the opening.

B. Live Trapping

While exclusion is preferred, live trapping may be necessary in some situations. Always check local regulations before trapping raccoons.

1. Choosing the Right Trap

Select a sturdy, appropriately sized trap:

Trap Type	Dimensions	Best For
Single-door cage trap	32″ x 10″ x 12″	Most situations
Double-door cage trap	36″ x 10″ x 12″	Wary raccoons
Larger cage trap	42″ x 15″ x 15″	Multiple or large raccoons

Ensure the trap has:

• Smooth edges to prevent injury
• A solid floor to protect paws
• A sensitive trigger mechanism

2. Proper Bait Selection

Effective baits for raccoons include:

• Marshmallows
• Canned cat food
• Fish (canned or fresh)
• Sweet corn
• Peanut butter

Avoid using meat during warm weather to prevent attracting flies.

3. Trap Placement Strategies

• Place traps along known raccoon paths or near entry points
• Set traps on a flat, stable surface
• Position the trap with the open end facing the direction raccoons typically approach from
• Camouflage the trap with natural materials like leaves or branches
• Set multiple traps for better success rates

4. Checking Traps and Handling Captured Raccoons

• Check traps at least twice daily, morning and evening
• Approach trapped raccoons calmly and quietly
• Cover the trap with a blanket to reduce stress
• Wear thick gloves and protective clothing when handling traps
• Transport the trapped raccoon immediately to the release site (if legal in your area)
• Release the raccoon in a suitable habitat at least 10 miles from your property (check local regulations)

C. Deterrents

Deterrents can be used to make your property less attractive to raccoons.

1. Light and Sound Devices

Device Type	How It Works	Effectiveness
Motion-activated lights	Sudden bright light startles raccoons	Moderate, raccoons may habituate
Ultrasonic repellers	Emit high-frequency sounds	Limited, effectiveness debated
Strobe lights	Disorient and confuse raccoons	Moderate, may disturb humans too
Radios tuned to talk stations	Human voices deter raccoons	Moderate, may bother neighbors

2. Repellents (Natural and Commercial)

Natural repellents:

• Ammonia-soaked rags
• Cayenne pepper or hot sauce mixture
• Garlic and onion puree
• Predator urine (coyote or fox)

Commercial repellents:

• Typically contain predator urine or capsaicin (hot pepper extract)
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully
• Reapply after rain or as directed

3. Motion-Activated Sprinklers

• Install near entry points or frequently visited areas
• Sudden spray of water startles and deters raccoons
• Adjust sensitivity and spray area for best results
• Consider impact on plants and other wildlife

Remember, while deterrents can be effective, they’re best used in combination with exclusion techniques for long-term raccoon management.

When employing any of these humane removal methods, patience and persistence are key. Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable, so a multi-faceted approach is often necessary. Always prioritize the safety and well-being of both humans and raccoons throughout the removal process.

While general raccoon removal techniques are effective in most cases, certain situations require special consideration and handling. This section will address three particularly challenging scenarios: dealing with raccoon families, managing sick or injured raccoons, and removing raccoons from specific areas of your property.

A. Removing raccoons with babies

Encountering a mother raccoon with her kits requires extra care and consideration. It’s crucial to keep the family unit together and ensure the safety of the young.

1. Identifying the presence of babies:
   • Look for signs of increased raccoon activity, especially during spring and early summer (prime birthing season)
   • Listen for high-pitched chirping or crying sounds coming from den sites
   • Observe the mother raccoon’s behavior; frequent trips to and from a specific location may indicate the presence of a nest
2. Legal and ethical considerations:
   • Many jurisdictions have laws protecting wildlife mothers and their young
   • It’s generally illegal and unethical to separate mothers from their babies
3. Removal strategies:
   • Wait it out: If possible, wait 8-10 weeks for the babies to mature enough to leave with their mother
   • Use exclusion techniques:
     1. Identify all entry/exit points
     2. Install one-way doors on all but one exit
     3. Wait 3-5 nights to ensure all raccoons have left
     4. Seal the final exit point
4. If immediate removal is necessary:
   • Contact a professional wildlife removal service experienced in handling raccoon families
   • Ensure the entire family is trapped and relocated together
   • Never attempt to handle raccoon babies yourself; the mother may become aggressive
5. After removal:
   • Thoroughly clean and disinfect the den site
   • Seal all entry points to prevent future infestations

B. Dealing with sick or injured raccoons

Encountering a sick or injured raccoon requires caution due to potential health risks and unpredictable behavior.

1. Signs of illness or injury:
   • Disorientation or stumbling
   • Aggression or unusual lack of fear
   • Visible wounds or bleeding
   • Discharge from eyes or nose
   • Partial paralysis
   • Active during daylight (though not always a sign of illness)
2. Safety precautions:
   • Never approach or attempt to handle a sick or injured raccoon
   • Keep pets and children away from the area
   • Wear protective gear if you must be in the vicinity
3. Proper response:
   • Contact local animal control or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately
   • Provide as much information as possible about the raccoon’s condition and location
   • If advised, contain the area to prevent the raccoon from wandering (without direct contact)
4. Potential diseases:
   • Rabies: A serious concern with neurological symptoms
   • Canine distemper: Can cause respiratory issues and neurological symptoms
   • Roundworm: Transmitted through feces, can be dangerous to humans
5. After professional removal:
   • Disinfect any areas the raccoon may have contaminated
   • Monitor your property for signs of other potentially sick animals

C. Raccoons in attics, crawl spaces, and under decks

These enclosed spaces are particularly attractive to raccoons seeking shelter. Each area presents unique challenges for removal.

1. Attics:
   • Identify entry points by looking for damaged roof vents, soffits, or fascia boards
   • Listen for movement or vocalizations, especially at night
   • Look for signs of nesting materials or droppings
   • Removal steps:
     1. Install one-way doors over entry points
     2. Use light and sound deterrents to encourage exit
     3. After evacuation, seal all entry points
     4. Clean and decontaminate the attic space thoroughly
2. Crawl spaces:
   • Check for digging signs around the foundation
   • Look for damaged vents or access points
   • Removal process:
     1. Secure the perimeter to prevent new entries
     2. Use exclusion techniques as with attics
     3. Consider installing a buried fence around the foundation to prevent future digging
3. Under decks:
   • Look for digging evidence or raccoon tracks near the deck
   • Check for damage to lattice work or other deck skirting
   • Removal approach:
     1. Install temporary one-way doors
     2. Use deterrents like bright lights or ammonia-soaked rags
     3. After raccoons leave, install sturdy exclusion materials (heavy-gauge wire mesh or metal flashing)
     4. Extend fencing into the ground to prevent future digging
4. General tips for all locations:
   • Always verify that all raccoons, including potential babies, have left before sealing entry points
   • Conduct thorough cleaning and disinfection after removal
   • Repair any structural damage caused by the raccoons
   • Implement preventive measures to discourage future infestations

Remember, in all these special situations, the key is to prioritize the safety of both humans and animals. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult with or hire professional wildlife removal experts who have the experience and equipment to handle these challenging scenarios safely and humanely.

Working with Professional Wildlife Removal Services

While many raccoon problems can be handled by homeowners, there are situations where professional help is necessary. This section will guide you through determining when to call a professional, how to choose a reputable company, what questions to ask, and cost considerations.

A. When to call a professional

Consider contacting a professional wildlife removal service in the following situations:

1. Large or persistent raccoon infestations
2. Raccoons inside living spaces
3. Presence of raccoon families with babies
4. Sick or aggressive raccoons
5. Significant property damage
6. Legal restrictions on DIY removal in your area
7. Lack of time or resources for DIY methods
8. Concerns about personal safety or disease transmission

B. Choosing a reputable wildlife removal company

To ensure you’re working with a reliable and ethical company:

1. Check for proper licensing and insurance
2. Look for certifications from wildlife control associations
3. Read online reviews and check their Better Business Bureau rating
4. Ask for references from past clients
5. Ensure they use humane removal methods
6. Verify they offer comprehensive services (removal, cleaning, and prevention)

C. Questions to ask before hiring

Before engaging a wildlife removal service, ask the following questions:

Question	Why It’s Important
What methods do you use for raccoon removal?	Ensures humane and effective techniques
Are your technicians licensed and insured?	Protects you from liability
Do you offer a warranty or guarantee?	Indicates confidence in their service
What’s your approach to raccoon families with babies?	Ensures ethical treatment of wildlife
Do you handle cleanup and sanitization?	Comprehensive service is important for health reasons
Can you assist with repairs and prevention?	Helps prevent future infestations
What’s your pricing structure?	Avoids unexpected costs
How soon can you begin the removal process?	Addresses urgency of your situation
Do you use any chemicals or poisons?	Ensures safety for pets and children
What’s your protocol for sick or injured raccoons?	Indicates their level of expertise and ethical standards

D. Cost considerations

The cost of professional raccoon removal can vary widely based on several factors:

1. Extent of the infestation: Larger or more complex problems will be more expensive to resolve.
2. Location of the raccoons: Removing raccoons from attics or crawl spaces may cost more due to difficulty of access.
3. Method of removal: Humane live trapping and relocation may be more costly than some other methods.
4. Additional services: Costs may increase if cleanup, repairs, or preventive measures are included.
5. Geographic location: Prices can vary significantly depending on your region and local competition.
6. Time of year: Rates may be higher during peak seasons (spring and summer).
7. Emergency services: After-hours or immediate response services often come with premium pricing.

Typical cost ranges:

• Basic raccoon removal: $150 – $500
• Complex infestations: $500 – $1,500
• Cleanup and sanitation: $200 – $600
• Repairs and prevention: $300 – $3,000+

Always get detailed, written estimates from multiple companies before making a decision. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may indicate subpar service or hidden fees.

When evaluating costs, consider the long-term benefits of professional service:

• Effective resolution of the current problem
• Reduced risk of reinfestation
• Protection of your property from further damage
• Peace of mind from professional handling of the situation

Remember, while cost is an important factor, it shouldn’t be the only consideration. The cheapest option may not always provide the most humane, effective, or comprehensive solution. Prioritize companies that offer ethical, thorough, and lasting results.

By carefully selecting a professional wildlife removal service, you can ensure that your raccoon problem is resolved safely, humanely, and effectively, with minimal stress to you and your family.

The Effective Long-term Strategies for Raccoon Management

Effectively managing raccoon populations requires a sustained, multi-faceted approach. This section will explore strategies for ongoing prevention, how to adapt your efforts seasonally, and the importance of community-wide raccoon management initiatives.

Ongoing Prevention Strategies

To maintain a raccoon-free property over the long term, consider implementing these ongoing prevention strategies:

1. Regular property inspections:
   • Conduct monthly checks of your property’s exterior
   • Look for new potential entry points or signs of raccoon activity
   • Promptly address any vulnerabilities you find
2. Maintenance of deterrents:
   • Regularly test and maintain motion-activated lights and sprinklers
   • Replace batteries in electronic deterrent devices as needed
   • Reapply chemical repellents according to manufacturer instructions
3. Landscape management:
   • Keep trees trimmed away from structures (maintain at least 8 feet of clearance)
   • Regularly harvest fruit from trees and pick up fallen fruit
   • Maintain a tidy yard free of debris and potential hiding spots
4. Waste management:
   • Consistently secure garbage cans and compost bins
   • Clean up any spills or scattered trash immediately
   • Consider using ammonia or commercial raccoon repellents in trash areas
5. Structural upkeep:
   • Regularly inspect and maintain roof, soffits, and fascia boards
   • Keep chimneys capped and in good repair
   • Ensure all vents and potential entry points remain securely sealed
6. Food source control:
   • Avoid outdoor pet feeding or remove food bowls at night
   • Use raccoon-proof bird feeders or bring them in at night
   • Store pet food, birdseed, and other potential attractants in sealed containers
7. Education and awareness:
   • Stay informed about local raccoon populations and behaviors
   • Educate family members about the importance of prevention measures

B. Seasonal Considerations

Raccoon behavior and activity levels change throughout the year, requiring adjustments to your management strategies:

1. Spring (March-May):
   • Breeding season begins
   • Increased foraging activity as raccoons prepare for birth
   • Focus on:
     • Securing potential den sites (attics, crawl spaces)
     • Removing outdoor food sources
     • Being vigilant for signs of nesting raccoons
2. Summer (June-August):
   • Peak activity period
   • Young raccoons begin to explore
   • Concentrate on:
     • Maintaining strong exclusion measures
     • Securing trash and compost bins
     • Harvesting garden produce promptly
3. Fall (September-November):
   • Increased feeding to prepare for winter
   • Possible attempts to find winter den sites
   • Emphasize:
     • Cleaning up fallen fruit and nuts
     • Securing potential winter den locations
     • Removing outdoor water sources
4. Winter (December-February):
   • Reduced activity, but still present
   • May seek warm shelter in human structures
   • Focus on:
     • Maintaining exclusion measures
     • Checking rarely-used spaces for signs of raccoons
     • Keeping chimneys and vents properly capped

C. Community-wide Raccoon Management Efforts

Effective long-term raccoon management often requires cooperation at the community level:

1. Education initiatives:
   • Organize community workshops on raccoon prevention
   • Distribute informational flyers or brochures
   • Use social media or community websites to share tips and updates
2. Coordinated prevention efforts:
   • Encourage neighbors to adopt consistent prevention measures
   • Organize community clean-up days to remove potential food sources and habitats
   • Implement neighborhood-wide strategies for securing trash and compost
3. Reporting system:
   • Establish a system for residents to report raccoon sightings or problems
   • Use this data to identify hotspots and target prevention efforts
4. Local ordinances:
   • Work with local government to enact and enforce wildlife feeding bans
   • Advocate for proper waste management regulations
   • Support measures requiring property owners to seal potential entry points
5. Professional partnerships:
   • Collaborate with local wildlife experts or universities for guidance
   • Partner with reputable wildlife removal companies for community-wide services
6. Habitat modification:
   • Work with local parks department to manage raccoon habitats in public spaces
   • Encourage natural predator populations where appropriate and safe
7. Community response team:
   • Train a group of volunteers to assist with raccoon-related issues
   • Provide resources and support for residents dealing with raccoon problems
8. Regular assessment:
   • Conduct periodic community surveys to gauge the effectiveness of management efforts
   • Adjust strategies based on feedback and observed results

By implementing these long-term management strategies, considering seasonal variations, and fostering community-wide efforts, you can significantly reduce raccoon-related issues over time. Remember, consistency and cooperation are key to successful long-term raccoon management. Regular evaluation and adaptation of your approaches will help ensure continued effectiveness in keeping your property and community raccoon-free.

As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on raccoon removal and prevention, let’s review the key points and reinforce the importance of humane and responsible practices. We’ll also provide you with additional resources to support your ongoing raccoon management efforts.

A. Recap of key points

Throughout this guide, we’ve covered several crucial aspects of raccoon management:

1. Understanding raccoons: We explored raccoon biology, behavior, and the reasons they’re attracted to human dwellings.
2. Legal considerations: We emphasized the importance of knowing and following local laws and regulations regarding wildlife removal.
3. Humane removal methods: We discussed various techniques, including exclusion, live trapping, and deterrents, always prioritizing the well-being of the animals.
4. Prevention strategies: We outlined numerous ways to make your property less attractive to raccoons, from securing trash to modifying landscapes.
5. Dealing with damage: We provided guidance on assessing, cleaning, and repairing raccoon-related damage to your property.
6. Special situations: We addressed challenging scenarios like dealing with raccoon families and sick or injured animals.
7. Professional services: We offered advice on when and how to work with wildlife removal experts.
8. Long-term management: We stressed the importance of ongoing prevention and community-wide efforts for lasting results.

B. Importance of humane and responsible raccoon removal

As we conclude, it’s crucial to reiterate the significance of humane and responsible raccoon management:

1. Ethical treatment: Raccoons, like all animals, deserve to be treated with respect and compassion. Humane methods minimize stress and suffering.
2. Legal compliance: Many jurisdictions have laws protecting wildlife. Humane and responsible practices ensure you stay within legal boundaries.
3. Ecological balance: Raccoons play a role in their ecosystems. Responsible management helps maintain this balance.
4. Public health: Proper handling and removal techniques reduce the risk of disease transmission to humans and pets.
5. Long-term effectiveness: Humane methods often prove more successful in the long run, addressing root causes rather than just symptoms.
6. Community relations: Responsible practices foster positive relationships with neighbors and demonstrate good stewardship of shared environments.
7. Educational opportunity: Humane management provides chances to learn about wildlife and promote coexistence.

Remember, the goal is not to harm or eradicate raccoons, but to find ways for humans and wildlife to coexist with minimal conflict. By employing humane and responsible methods, we can effectively manage raccoon issues while respecting the natural world around us.

C. Additional resources and local contact information

To support your ongoing raccoon management efforts, consider these additional resources:

1. Local wildlife agencies:
   • [Your State] Department of Natural Resources: [website]
   • [Your County] Animal Control: [phone number]
2. Wildlife rehabilitation centers:
   • [Local Wildlife Rehab Center Name]: [contact information]
3. Educational resources:
   • The Humane Society of the United States: www.humanesociety.org
   • National Wildlife Federation: www.nwf.org
4. Professional associations:
   • National Wildlife Control Operators Association: www.nwcoa.com
5. Local extension offices:
   • [Your State] Cooperative Extension Service: [website]
6. Community resources:
   • [Your City] Parks and Recreation Department: [contact information]
   • Local nature centers or wildlife education programs
7. Emergency contacts:
   • Wildlife Emergency Hotline: [phone number]
   • 24/7 Pest Control Services: [phone number]

Remember to customize these resources with information specific to your local area. Your local government website or community center may have additional raccoon management resources tailored to your region.

In conclusion, by understanding raccoons, employing humane management techniques, and working together as a community, we can effectively address raccoon-related challenges while fostering a respectful relationship with our wild neighbors. Stay informed, be proactive, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. With patience and persistence, you can maintain a raccoon-free property while contributing to the well-being of your local ecosystem.