How to Prevent Raccoons from Digging in Your Yard
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Raccoons are notorious for digging in yards, leaving behind a mess of overturned soil and damaged plants. While it may be tempting to try to shoo away these pesky critters, there are more effective ways to prevent raccoons from digging in your yard. In this article, we’ll discuss the best methods for keeping raccoons away from your yard, so you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about the mess they can make.
Why Do Raccoons Dig in Yards?
Raccoons are naturally curious animals, and they’re drawn to yards because of the potential food sources they can find there. Raccoons are omnivores, so they’ll eat almost anything they can get their paws on, including fruits, vegetables, insects, and even pet food. They’re also attracted to yards because of the potential shelter they can find there, such as woodpiles, sheds, and decks.
How to Prevent Raccoons from Digging in Your Yard
There are several steps you can take to prevent raccoons from digging in your yard. Here are some of the most effective methods:
- Secure your garbage: Raccoons are drawn to garbage cans because of the potential food sources they can find there. Make sure your garbage cans are securely sealed and stored in a shed or garage if possible.
- Remove potential food sources: Raccoons are also attracted to gardens and compost piles, so make sure to keep these areas secure and free of potential food sources. If you have fruit trees, pick up any fallen fruit and dispose of it properly.
- Secure your pet food: Raccoons are also attracted to pet food, so make sure to store it in a secure container and keep it indoors if possible.
- Install motion-activated lights: Motion-activated lights can be an effective deterrent for raccoons, as they’ll be startled by the sudden light and will likely avoid the area.
- Install a fence: A fence can be an effective way to keep raccoons out of your yard, as they won’t be able to climb over it. Make sure the fence is at least six feet tall and has a tight mesh to prevent raccoons from squeezing through.
- Use repellents: Repellents such as ammonia, pepper spray, and predator urine can be effective at deterring raccoons. However, these should be used as a last resort, as they can be harmful to other animals and plants.
Pro Tip
If you’re having trouble keeping raccoons away from your yard, consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service. They’ll be able to identify the problem and come up with a solution that’s tailored to your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What attracts raccoons to yards?
Raccoons are attracted to yards because of the potential food sources they can find there, such as fruits, vegetables, insects, and pet food. They’re also attracted to yards because of the potential shelter they can find there, such as woodpiles, sheds, and decks.
What is the best way to keep raccoons away from my yard?
The best way to keep raccoons away from your yard is to make sure there are no potential food sources or shelter available. Secure your garbage cans, remove potential food sources, secure your pet food, install motion-activated lights, install a fence, and use repellents as a last resort.
