Raccoon Facts

Here Are Downriver Pest Control's Top 6 Facts About Raccoons

1. Adaptability

Raccoons are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including urban areas, forests, and wetlands. Their ability to live close to human settlements contributes to their frequent encounters with people.

2. Nocturnal Behavior

Raccoons are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. Their nocturnal nature can make them less visible and more difficult to detect.

3. Omnivorous Diet

Raccoons have a varied diet that includes fruits, nuts, insects, small animals, and even human garbage. Their opportunistic feeding habits often lead them to rummage through trash cans and dumpsters.

4. Communication

 Raccoons communicate using a range of vocalizations, including growls, purrs, and chattering sounds. They also use body language and scent marking to communicate with each other.

5. Disease Carriers

Raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies and parasites like roundworms. Their droppings and urine can pose health risks to humans and pets if not managed properly.

6. Strong Sense of Smell

Raccoons have an excellent sense of smell, which helps them locate food sources. Their sense of smell is one of the key reasons they are attracted to garbage and pet food left outside.

Secure Trash and Recycling Bins

Use raccoon-proof bins with tight-fitting lids. Consider placing bins inside a shed or using bungee cords to keep lids secure.

Install Motion-Activated Lights

Raccoons prefer dark areas. Installing motion-activated lights can deter them from approaching your yard.

Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for potential entry points such as gaps in the roof, vents, and foundation. Seal these openings with materials like hardware cloth, steel mesh, or caulk.

Keep Roofs and Gutters Clean

 Regularly clean gutters and trim back tree branches that could provide raccoons with easy access to your roof.