The city of Hamilton is known to have a significant raccoon population, and residents often find themselves dealing with raccoon intrusions in their attics. These critters are highly adaptable and have no problem finding ways to enter your home, even in urban areas. Raccoons can climb trees, jump over fences, and even scale walls to access your attic. Once they've established a den in your home, they can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. This is why it's important to be aware of the signs of a raccoon infestation and take action as soon as possible. In addition to using humane removal methods and repairing any damage caused by the raccoons, it's also a good idea to take preventative measures to deter them from returning to your home. In this article, we will describe four steps for humanely removing raccoons from your attic that will ensure the safety of both the homeowner and the animal. By following these steps, you can protect your property from damage, prevent health risks, and ensure that the raccoons are safely and humanely removed from your home.
Raccoon entry point at soffit to roof leading into attic
Step 1 - Identify the animal in your attic
Identifying a raccoon problem in your attic is the first and most important step in removing these animals from your property. The signs of raccoon infestation can be subtle at first, but it's essential to be vigilant and observant. Look for any signs of damage to your attic, such as holes or chewed wood, as these are the primary entry points for raccoons. Racoons chew large holes at least 4 inches wide but you would be surprised at how small of a space they can squeeze into. Racoons often leave footprints on ductwork. Listen for any sounds of movement, scurrying, or scratching in the walls or ceiling, particularly at night when raccoons are most active. You may also notice a foul odor, as raccoons leave behind urine and feces that can quickly accumulate and create an unpleasant smell. If you have outdoor pets, be mindful of any changes in their food or water supply, as raccoons are notorious for raiding pet food dishes and water bowls. Additionally, it's important to remember that just because you have seen a raccoon on your property, it doesn't necessarily mean that it's the same animal that has invaded your attic. Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect your attic to determine the extent of the infestation and locate all entry points that raccoons may be using to gain access. Finally, before taking any action to remove raccoons from your attic, make sure to check for babies, as separating them from their mother can be stressful and dangerous for both the babies and the homeowner.
Picture of front and back paws of a raccoon in the dust
Step 2 - Removal using a one way door.
The second step of removing raccoons is crucial to ensure that the process is humane and safe for both the raccoons and the homeowner. As mentioned earlier, cage trapping and long-distance removal from the property is not only illegal but also harmful to the animal. This is because raccoons are known to be territorial and may not survive in unfamiliar environments. Using a one-way door system is the most effective and humane method to remove raccoons from the attic. The system allows the raccoons to exit the attic easily, but it prevents them from returning once they leave. One-way doors are usually placed over the entry and exit points that the raccoons use to access the attic. It is important to ensure that the mother raccoon and her babies are not trapped inside the attic. Removing the babies separately and reuniting them with their mother is crucial to ensure their safety and well-being.
Step 3 - Repair Damage and Sanitize
Raccoons are notorious for causing damage to homes and buildings, especially when they gain access to attics. They have incredibly strong jaws and teeth that allow them to chew through materials such as wood, insulation, and electrical wiring. The damage caused by raccoons can be extensive and costly to repair. In addition to chewed wires being a potential fire hazard, the raccoons may have left behind droppings and urine, which can lead to health issues for humans and pets. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly inspect the attic for any damage caused by the raccoons and address it promptly. Repairs will likely involve replacing any chewed wood or insulation, and ensuring that all electrical wiring is intact and safe. It is also important to clean and sanitize the area to eliminate any potential health hazards caused by the raccoons.
Step 4 - Prevent Raccoons from Returning.
To prevent raccoons from returning, there are various measures that can be taken. One of the most effective ways is to seal off any entry points that the raccoons may use to access the property. This can be done by inspecting the roof, walls, and any other potential entry points for gaps or holes, and sealing them using materials such as wire mesh or metal flashing. Additionally, it is important to keep the property clean and free of any food or water sources that may attract raccoons. This includes keeping trash cans tightly sealed, removing fallen fruit or nuts from trees, and ensuring that pet food is not left outside overnight. Another effective preventive measure is to install motion-activated lights or sprinklers around the property, as raccoons are typically deterred by sudden movements or noises.
Raccoon infestations in attics can be a major problem for homeowners, as these creatures are notorious for causing damage to property and potentially spreading diseases. If left unaddressed, the problem can escalate and cause further damage, putting the safety of both the homeowner and the raccoon in danger. Therefore, it is important to take action as soon as possible using following the four steps of identification, removal, repair, and prevention. Remember, humane removal is essential, and one-way door systems can be an effective solution. Additionally, it is crucial to take preventive measures to seal off any potential entry points to prevent the raccoons from returning. Seeking the help of professionals who have the necessary knowledge and tools can help ensure a safe and humane removal process.
When dealing with unwanted wildlife on your property, it's important to seek help from a professional wildlife removal and prevention service. Integrity Wildlife Control is a reliable and experienced service provider that specializes in the humane removal of wildlife such as raccoons, squirrels, skunks, and bats from your property. With over 20 years of experience, their team of experts has the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively remove these animals from your property, and to prevent them from returning. Additionally, they guarantee their work, giving you peace of mind that the job will be done right.
If you need help with your raccoon problem call the experts at Integrity Wildlife Control at 1-289- 272-9453 or fill out a form to get a quote by clicking here.
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