Do you have raccoons in your attic? If so, you’re not alone. Raccoons are one of the most common nuisance animals in the United States.
They’re also one of the most destructive, damaging attics, walls, insulation, and ductwork with their sharp claws and teeth. Not to mention, they can also carry diseases that are harmful to humans.
The good news is that there are several ways to get rid of raccoons in your attic. The bad news is that some of these methods are more effective than others.
This blog post will look at the top 7 ways to eliminate raccoons in your attic and help you decide which is correct.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. If you need assistance, please call a professional wildlife removal company. Countries and States can have different laws regarding wildlife removal.
Method #1: Trapping
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Trapping is one of the most common and effective ways to eliminate raccoons in your attic. Several types of traps are available on the market, but the most common and effective trap is the live trap.
To use a live trap, you first bait it with food. The animal enters the trap to eat the bait and is then captured. After that, you can transport the animal to another location away from your home.
The downside to this method is that it can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, and you may have to check the trap multiple times per day.
Additionally, trapping may not be practical if you have many raccoons in your attic. However, trapping can effectively eliminate these pesky pests for those willing to put in the time and effort.
Method #2: Exclusion
Exclusion is sealing off an area to prevent entry from raccoons and other animals. While this may seem the obvious solution, it’s essential to take the time to do it right. Otherwise, you may have an expensive bill and still have raccoons in your attic.
The first step is to thoroughly inspect the area and identify all possible entry points. Once you’ve found all the potential openings, seal them off with heavy-duty materials that the raccoons can’t chew through or push aside.
You may also need to install a one-way door to allow raccoons inside the space to exit but not re-enter. This method can be effective, but it does require some time and investment.
If you’re not sure you can do it yourself, it’s worth considering hiring a professional wildlife control company. They will have the experience and expertise to finish the job quickly and efficiently.
Method #3: Repellents
Repellents are one option for keeping raccoons away from your home, though there is no scientific evidence that they work.
These products typically contain ultrasonic sound waves or predatory smells designed to scare away raccoons.
Some studies have shown that these repellents might attract raccoons, so if you decide to use one, follow the instructions carefully and keep an eye on the area.
If the raccoons haven’t been scared away, it might be time to try a different method. Has anyone had success using repellents? Let us know in the comments!
Method #4: Fumigation
Disclaimer: Fumigation should only be handled by a professional company familiar with the process and legality.
Fumigation involves pumping a gas, usually sulfuryl fluoride, into your attic space to kill animals. While this method is typically only used as a last resort, it can effectively eliminate raccoons. However, a few things to remember if you’re considering fumigation.
- First, it is essential to note that fumigation does not seal off entry points into the attic space. Any remaining animals will simply re-enter after the gas has dissipated.
- Second, fumigation is a highly toxic and dangerous method for humans and animals. As such, taking all necessary precautions if you choose to go this route is essential.
That said, fumigation may be worth considering if you’re looking for an effective way to eliminate raccoons in your attic.
Method #5: Poisoning
Disclaimer: The use of poison is illegal in many states and should only be handled by a professional company familiar with the process and legality.
Poisoning should never be used to eliminate animals from your home, as it is inhumane and dangerous for humans and pets.
Additionally, poisoning does not guarantee that only target animals will be killed; non-target animals may also be exposed to the poison and die as a result.
For these reasons, we do not recommend using poison to get rid of raccoons from your home or any other animal, for that matter!
If you are dealing with a raccoon problem, there are other, more humane methods that you can use to get rid of them.
For example, you may attempt capturing the raccoons using live traps and releasing them into the wild outside of your house.
You can also try using deterrents such as loud noises or bright lights to scare the raccoons away. Whatever method you choose, just ensure you do not resort to poisoning!
Method #6: Shooting
Disclaimer: The use of firearms is illegal in many states and should only be handled by a professional company familiar with the process and legality.
While some people may view shooting as an extreme measure, it is one of the most effective ways to eliminate nuisance animals like raccoons from your property if done correctly.
Shooting should only be done by experienced individuals familiar with firearms safety, as there is always a risk of injury or death when guns are involved.
Additionally, many municipalities have laws against discharging firearms within city limits, so check with your local law enforcement agency before taking matters into your own hands!
When done correctly and by the law, shooting can eliminate pesky animals on your property.
Method #7: Calling a Professional
If you have tried all the above methods and still have raccoon problems, you may consider calling a professional wildlife control company.
These companies specialize in removing animals from homes and properties and will likely succeed in getting rid of your raccoon problem.
Although it may be more expensive to call a professional, it is often worth the investment to have peace of mind and be rid of the animals for good.
In addition, these companies can also help to seal up any entry points so that raccoons cannot get back into your home in the future.
Therefore, calling a professional may be the best solution if you are at your wit’s end with raccoons.
Relocating The Raccoon
Once you’ve caught the raccoon, you’ll need to decide what to do with it. The best option is to relocate the animal at least 10 miles away from your home. This will ensure it doesn’t come back looking for food or shelter.
You’ll need to find a suitable place to release the raccoon. It should be in a wooded area with plenty of food and water.
The exact location will depend on where you live and the laws in your state or country. Once you’ve found a suitable spot, gently place the raccoon in a carrier and transport it there.
Releasing a wild animal can be a rewarding experience. Knowing that you’ve helped to give an animal a second chance at life is a great feeling.
However, it’s important to remember that relocating a raccoon is not always the best solution. Sometimes, it’s better to call a wildlife rehabilitator who can adequately care for the animal. Ultimately, deciding what to do with a captured raccoon is up to you.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, there is no clear-cut answer when deciding how to get rid of raccoons in your attic. What may work for one person may not work for another.
You can best educate yourself on the different available methods and decide which will fit your situation best.
Regardless of your chosen method, getting rid of raccoons can be difficult and time-consuming. But with patience and perseverance, you can successfully get rid of these pesky pests for good.
