Many people see neighbourhood wildlife like raccoons and possums waddling around the quiet streets at night. Seeing the animals from a distance is not intimidating; it is almost enchanting. However, when raccoons settle in your yard, they can create a problem, one that requires wildlife control in Okanagan.

Does Ammonia Work?

Many homeowners are familiar with the claim that ammonia will scare raccoons away from their property, but this is not true, sad to say. The claim is that ammonia mimics the odour of predator urine, convincing the raccoon they are not safe on the property. Unfortunately, raccoons do not seem to care about the mimic. Also, ammonia does not have the staying power natural predator scents have; it will wash away with the rain or quickly fade after a day or two. 

Why Is DIY Wildlife Removal Dangerous and Expensive?

The problem with many DIY “solutions” is that they are anecdotal and unreliable. While someone might believe ammonia worked to scare raccoons away, they likely have no evidence to corroborate their assumption. Raccoons can have multiple nests within a specific area and might occasionally move to be closer to food, meaning a well-meaning homeowner might mistake normal animal behaviour for evidence of a homespun fix.

Besides DIY “solutions” being unreliable, they can also be dangerous. Unless you have significant experience removing wild animals from places, you should never approach one. Wildlife is unpredictable, and many animals carry bacteria and diseases that can affect people and domestic pets. 

Finally, DIY removal is not only dangerous, but it is also potentially more costly than hiring a professional. Some wildlife is protected, meaning removing them is illegal. Also, trapping is not legal in all jurisdictions. Experienced wildlife control technicians know the laws and regulations for dealing with various wildlife, including raccoons.

What Is the Best Way To Prevent a Wildlife Problem?

Prevention is the best way to ensure you do not have to contend with a wildlife problem. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t know fundamental prevention strategies. Experts suggest focusing on four key areas.

1. Yard Maintenance

Raccoons will make dens in areas that provide enough shelter and security. If your yard is overgrown, or if you have piles of lumber stacked against a shed with easy access to its understructure, a raccoon can see it as an invitation to stay. Keeping your yard clean and free of clutter and ensuring the underside of structures is sealed is an excellent way to keep raccoons away.

2. Garbage Storage

Raccoons are foragers, and they will dig through anything to find their next meal, including the trash. Storing garbage outside in uncovered bins welcomes the animals to explore what’s for dinner. To curb temptation, try storing garbage cans inside a sealed garage or shed. Also, ensure every can has a tight-fitting lid.

3. Food Storage

Many pet owners feed their animals outside, which is a problem. Putting animal food outdoors, even temporarily, tells wildlife that food is close. If you must feed your pets outside, take the dishes in as soon as they’re done. Also, never store pet food outdoors or in its original packaging in the garage. You want to keep pet food in secure bins, like those designed with screw-top lids.

4. Home Maintenance

Exterior seals are vital for protecting your home against curious critters. You should inspect your roof multiple times throughout the year and walk the perimeter of your house, looking for any damage or vulnerabilities. Raccoons are intelligent and determined; if they sense a weakness in the structure, they can and will exploit it to find a more comfortable shelter. 

How Do You Deal With an Existing Problem?

The only way to deal with an existing wildlife problem is to call professional raccoon removal services. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control and schedule a home assessment.