How to Remove Raccoons from Your Yard
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Having raccoons in your yard can be a nuisance. They can damage your property, dig up your garden, and spread disease. If you’re looking for a way to get rid of raccoons, there are a few steps you can take to make your yard less inviting and encourage them to move on. In this article, we’ll cover how to remove raccoons from your yard, the best ways to keep them away, and what to do if you’re unable to get rid of them.
Removing Raccoons from Your Yard
The first step in removing raccoons from your yard is to make sure they don’t have access to food or shelter. Raccoons are attracted to yards with easy access to food, water, and shelter. To keep them away, you should:
- Securely store pet food and bird seed.
- Remove any sources of standing water, such as bird baths or ponds.
- Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and stored in a shed or garage.
- Trim back any overgrown shrubs or trees that could provide shelter.
Hazing Raccoons
Once you’ve removed any sources of food and shelter, you can try hazing the raccoons. Hazing is a method of deterring animals by making them feel unwelcome. To haze raccoons, you can:
- Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers in your yard.
- Use a loud noise maker, such as an air horn or whistle.
- Throw a rock or stick in the direction of the raccoon.
- Spray the raccoon with a hose.
Trapping Raccoons
If hazing doesn’t work, you may need to resort to trapping the raccoons. You can purchase a live trap from a hardware store or online. Be sure to check your local laws to make sure trapping raccoons is legal in your area. Once you’ve set the trap, you can relocate the raccoon to a more suitable habitat.
Preventing Raccoons from Returning
Once you’ve removed the raccoons from your yard, you’ll want to take steps to prevent them from returning. To keep raccoons away, you should:
- Install fencing around your yard.
- Seal off any potential entry points, such as holes in your roof or gaps in your foundation.
- Keep your yard clean and free of debris.
- Regularly inspect your property for signs of raccoon activity.
Pro Tip
If you’re having trouble getting rid of raccoons, you may want to consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service. They have the experience and expertise to safely and effectively remove raccoons from your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have raccoons in my yard?
Look for signs of raccoon activity, such as tracks, droppings, or overturned garbage cans. You may also hear them at night, as they are nocturnal animals.
Are raccoons dangerous?
Raccoons can be dangerous if they feel threatened. They can also spread diseases, such as rabies and leptospirosis. It’s best to avoid contact with raccoons and leave them to a professional if you need to remove them from your property.
