I. Introduction
Raccoons may look cute, but they can cause destruction and health hazards if they invade your property. From overturning trash cans to damaging gardens and spreading diseases, dealing with raccoons can be a challenge for homeowners. This article explores effective tips and strategies for keeping raccoons away from your property.
II. Establish boundaries
Setting clear boundaries is the first step in discouraging raccoons from entering your property. Fencing, barriers, and natural boundaries are some options you can consider. Fencing is a particularly effective control method. However, the fence must be high enough to prevent raccoons from climbing over it, and it should be buried deep in the soil to prevent any digging. While natural boundaries like trees and water bodies are not always effective, they can create obstacles that discourage raccoons from entering your property.
III. Remove food sources
Raccoons are attracted to food, so remove any potential food sources in your backyard. Pet food, bird feeders and garbage cans are some common sources of food that would attract raccoons. Securely fasten the lids of garbage cans and compost bins to prevent raccoons from accessing the contents. Keep trash cans at the curb only on the day of garbage collection, and clean them regularly to minimize the chance of any odours that raccoons can detect.
IV. Deter with lights and sound
Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, and they are not fond of bright light or loud noise, which can be used as a deterrent. Install motion-activated lights and sound machines to frighten raccoons that may enter your property at night. Place these devices in strategic locations such as near garbage cans and compost bins.
V. Repel with scents
Raccoons have a keen sense of smell and are repelled by certain scents, such as ammonia, cayenne pepper, and garlic. You can plant these scents in the form of herbs like basil, mint and rosemary near your garden to deter raccoons. You can also buy commercial repellents that contain these scents. However, remember that while these repellents may repel raccoons, they can affect other garden animals, including beneficial insects and pollinators such as bees.
VI. Use physical deterrents
Motion-activated sprinklers and scarecrows are some of the physical deterrents you can use. These devices use sensors to detect the presence of raccoons and then release a burst of water or noise to frighten them away. Place these devices in strategic locations such as near pet or chicken coops.
VII. Adopt a dog
Dogs are natural predators, and they will bark, growl, and chase raccoons out of your property. However, it’s important to adopt a dog that is suitable for your family and lifestyle. If you adopt a dog for the sole purpose of deterring raccoons, it may not work out for you in the long run. You have to commit to taking care of the animal and providing its needs beyond scaring raccoons away.
VIII. Seek professional help
If the raccoon problem persists despite your efforts, it may be time to seek professional wildlife control services. These experts will assess the situation, identify the root cause of the problem, and provide a humane solution. However, ensure that you choose a reputable and ethical service provider who will not harm the raccoons or any other animals.
IX. Conclusion
Keeping raccoons away from your property requires effort and patience, but following the tips in this article can help you achieve that. Establishing boundaries, removing any food sources, deterring with lights and sound, repelling with scents, using physical deterrents, adopting a dog and seeking professional help are the different ways to control raccoons. Remember, not all raccoon control methods may work for you, and you may have to try a combination of several methods to keep the critters at bay.
