Are you searching for ways to keep raccoons out of your backyard? Raccoons, while fascinating creatures, can be quite the nuisance when they decide to make your yard their playground. If you’re looking for tips on how to deter raccoons, prevent raccoon infestations, or remove raccoons from your yard, you’ve come to the right place.
These nocturnal animals typically venture into backyards for three primary reasons:
- Seeking a Food Source: Raccoons are opportunistic feeders. They are drawn to any easily accessible food, including pet food, garbage, and even bird seed. If you’re searching for ways to keep raccoons away from your pet food or bird seed, we’ve got you covered.
- Traveling to or from Their Established Den Site: Sometimes, raccoons pass through your yard while commuting to their homes, which might be in a nearby tree or a neighbor’s attic. If you suspect you have a raccoon den on your property, we can help.
- Searching for a New Den Site: Raccoons are always on the lookout for a safe, warm place to call home, and your attic, chimney, or under your deck might look like prime real estate to them. If you’re looking for ways to prevent raccoons from nesting in your attic or chimney, we can provide guidance.
While it’s not entirely possible to prevent raccoons from entering your yard—given their incredible climbing abilities—you can take several steps to make your backyard and house less attractive to them.
Here’s how:
1. Eliminate Food Sources
Raccoons are primarily driven by their search for food. By removing these temptations, you can make your yard less appealing.
- Secure Trash Cans: Use raccoon-proof trash cans with tight-fitting lids or secure them with bungee cords.
- Remove Bird Feeders: Bird seed that falls to the ground can attract raccoons. Consider removing bird feeders or ensure they are raccoon-proof.
- Pet Food: Never leave pet food outside overnight. Feed pets indoors or bring in any leftover food once your pet is done eating.
- Compost: If you compost, use a raccoon-proof composter and ensure the lock is in place before heading inside for the night.
2. Secure Potential Den Sites
Raccoons are always looking for a cozy spot to set up their den. Make sure your property doesn’t offer them a comfortable home.
- Under Decks and Porches: Gates Wildlife can install galvanized screen to block access to areas under decks, sheds and porches. We ensure the barrier extends at least a foot underground to prevent digging.
- Chimneys: We can install a chimney cap to prevent raccoons from entering and setting up a den, which comes with a 10 year guarantee!
- Attics: Check for and repair any rotted wood or gaps in your roof and soffit. We can ensure that your roof vents are properly screened as these are often targeted by raccoons looking for a den.
3. Yard Maintenance
Keeping your yard well-maintained can also discourage raccoons from setting up camp.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Raccoons can use overhanging branches to gain access to your roof. Keep branches trimmed back from your house.
- Clean Up Fallen Fruit: If you have fruit trees, regularly clean up fallen fruit, as it can attract raccoons.
- Remove Brush Piles: Piles of brush or wood can provide hiding spots for raccoons. Keep your yard tidy and remove any potential shelters.
4. Additional Deterrents
For a more robust approach, consider using additional deterrents.
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These can startle raccoons and discourage them from lingering in your yard.
- Outdoor Lighting: Raccoons prefer dark, quiet places. Motion-activated lights can help keep them away.
- Ultrasonic Repellent Devices: These devices emit a high-frequency sound undetectable to humans but unpleasant for raccoons, helping to deter them from your property.
- Physical Barriers: Consider using physical barriers like screen to block access to specific areas, such as under decks, sheds and additions.
5. Professional Help
Should raccoons move under your deck, into your chimney, or attic, look no further than Gates Wildlife Control. As the most humane and experienced wildlife removal company in the business, we have been providing exceptional service for over 40 years. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Gates Wildlife Control uses humane methods to safely remove raccoons and ensure they can not re-enter, giving you peace of mind and a raccoon-free home.
While raccoons are clever and persistent, taking these steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of them choosing your backyard as their next buffet or new home. By eliminating food sources, securing potential den sites, and maintaining your yard, you can create an environment that is far less inviting to these nocturnal visitors. With a bit of diligence and the right preventive measures, you can enjoy a raccoon-free backyard. Contact a Wildlife Consultant today.
