With their mischievous eyes and little hands, raccoons might seem irresistibly adorable. But that cute factor fades pretty quickly when they decide to turn your home into their playground.
If you’re finding yourself hosting a raccoon party you didn’t plan, don’t fret! Today, we’re going to break down how to get rid of raccoons using humane, eco-friendly, and most importantly, effective strategies.
Signs That You Might Have a Raccoon Infestation
Recognizing the signs of a raccoon infestation is the first step in the journey to get rid of raccoons for good. Here are some telltale signs:
- Evidence of raccoons feeding: From tipped-over garbage cans to chewed-up gardens, a feeding raccoon leaves a distinct mess behind.
- Tracks: Keep an eye out for raccoon tracks such as paw prints; they’re similar in shape to human handprints but much smaller.
- Droppings: Raccoon droppings are often the size and shape of a small dog’s, and they’re a sure sign of an unwanted visitor.
- Strange sounds: Raccoons are nocturnal, so you might hear loud noises such as scratching, thumping, or high-pitched chattering in the middle of the night.
How to Remove Raccoons Humanely & Naturally
Once you’ve identified a raccoon problem, it’s time to employ some raccoon deterrents. The best method to get rid of raccoons will depend on where in your home they’re living.
Raccoons in the Home
Raccoons often find solace in the attic, walls, or other cozy nooks. They’re attracted to warmth, food, and shelter that homes provide. To keep them away, seal off possible entry points, keep food sources inaccessible, and install chimney caps or mesh wire to block entrances.
Raccoons in the Crawlspace (Under the House)
This area provides an inviting hideout for raccoons. Effective ways of deterring them include the use of light (as they prefer dark spaces) and non-toxic repellents. Understanding what keeps raccoons away is a key component in maintaining a raccoon-free home.
How EcoCare Pest Control Gets Rid of Raccoons in Portland Homes
As a family-owned company with 23 years of experience, EcoCare Pest Control excels in providing safe, eco-friendly solutions for pest issues. If you’ve tried to figure out how to scare raccoons away from your house and it’s not working, it’s time to call in the professionals.
Our team of expert technicians specializes in raccoon removal and prevention, ensuring that these creatures are dealt with humanely and effectively. Plus, we understand the unique challenges faced by homeowners in Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA.
Visit our raccoon removal page for more information on how we approach these situations with a commitment to eco-friendly practices and top-notch service.
Contact the Portland Raccoon & Pest Control Pros Today!
Remember, the best strategy is prevention. Now that you know how to keep raccoons away, you’re better prepared to protect your home. But when in doubt, it’s always best to call the professionals. And at EcoCare, we’re always ready to help. We offer a free inspection and quote to get you started on the path to a pest-free home, so you can know exactly what to expect before moving forward.
A raccoon infestation is not just an annoyance; it poses health risks and can lead to property damage – so don’t wait to get rid of these unwelcome guests!
Contact us today and let our experienced technicians take the worry off your shoulders. Together, we can protect your home and family from pests in an environmentally conscious way.
Image credits: Christine_Gneh / Shutterstock
