Raccoons are a common problem for Massachusetts homeowners, whether they reside in rural, urban, or suburban settings. These preventive tips can ward off raccoon infestations and protect against the spread of serious diseases to humans and pets.

Seal Trashcans

Keeping the trash secure is the best way to keep raccoons away from a home. Residents should store garbage and compost in tightly sealed containers to avoid attracting these mammals. Bungee cords can help keep lids in place. Cans can also be stored in a garage or shed that’s tightly locked. Broken or cracked trashcan lids can easily be accessed by these dexterous creatures.

Keep Pet Food Indoors

Since pet food is appealing to raccoons, it’s best to not keep it outside. Also, it’s a good idea for pet owners to bring food and water dishes inside to avoid attracting raccoons that may even attack resident dogs and cats for a meal.

Prevent Access to Shelter

Raccoons will nest in dark, secluded areas where they can sleep during the day before hunting at night. Homeowners should seal off access to places where raccoons could reside or enter the home, such as spaces under the porch, chimneys, or attic doors. Gaps along the roof can also provide entry for these creatures.

Fence Off Gardens

Raccoons will gladly eat fruits and vegetables. Families who keep a garden should install a fence that keeps these pests out. Efforts to reduce insects that feed on plants may help, since grubs and other bugs are also on the raccoon menu.

Install Bright Lights

Spotlights in the yard can scare away shy raccoons. Many homeowners find success with solar-powered versions that illuminate at night. North East Wildlife Management can help Massachusetts homeowners who are struggling with a raccoon infestation despite these tips. Send us a message online or call (781) 562-9659 for same-day service, including 24-hour emergency visits for raccoon removal.

There’s nothing quite like settling in for the night only to hear some unidentified creature scratching in the attic. From the sounds of commotion to fears of damage and disease, it’s hard to feel comfortable knowing there’s a raccoon in the attic. Here’s a plan of action for when a raccoon makes its way indoors—and how to prevent it from happening again.

Contain Pets 

Before addressing a raccoon that has snuck into the home, contain any cats, dogs, or other pets that may be startled by the presence of another animal. This will prevent pets from trying to fight the raccoon or running away, further compounding the problem. 

Create a Tempting Trap

Simple metal cages or animal traps can be found at most hardware stores. Luckily, raccoons are attracted to many different food types, including cheese, peanut butter, or marshmallows. Place the tempting treat inside the trap and leave the attic. For extra safety, locate where the raccoon is in the attic and seal that area off with boxes or other barriers first so that the raccoon won’t approach while the trap is being prepared. Be sure to check the trap regularly, because a raccoon can quickly die of starvation or dehydration if left imprisoned. Remember, never try to catch or directly handle a raccoon, as this may provoke them to bite.

Call in Backup

Sometimes, raccoons aren’t tempted by traps or are too smart to get caught, or homeowners are unsure of the best way to release a trapped raccoon back into the wild. It’s best to call in professional raccoon removal services to ensure the safety of members of the household, pets, and even the raccoon itself. These humane pest control services can prevent the spreading of rabies, respiratory diseases, and damage to property that pests like raccoons, squirrels, skunks, and other pests cause.

Prevent Further Infestation 

If a raccoon ends up in the attic, it means there are factors that may tempt or aid other pests from invading a home as well. Prevent further infestation by securing garbage and compost piles, which can attract a number of unwanted animals. Never try to feed a raccoon, and don’t leave pet food outside unattended. To further prevent future needs for pest control, eliminate any areas where raccoons may make their dens, such as openings under porches. Finally, ensure that any openings that lead into sheds or attics are closed off, including chimneys.

Although raccoons can sometimes be safely trapped by a homeowner, it’s best to have professional services remove the pest. North East Wildlife Management can efficiently and humanely remove raccoons and other wild animals from New England homes. For more information about our raccoon, bat, or squirrel removal services, call us today at (781) 562-9659.