If you live in Waukesha, you may likely have experienced a raccoon on your roof or know someone who has at some point. It is a common wildlife problem in the area although it is by no means limited to Waukesha. This may seem surprising because they are ground-borne mammals. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Waukesha, we strive to understand wildlife behaviors so we can better handle issues such as raccoon removal.

How Raccoons Get on Roofs

First and foremost, it is useful to know what raccoons are doing near homes at all. There are two primary drivers of raccoon interest in human neighborhoods. The first is that homes are often built near or in existing raccoon habitats. It is especially common to see them near newly built homes. The second is that raccoons are scavengers who go wherever they can find access to food. Whether it is food waste in the trash, pet food left out, or stored food in easily opened containers, raccoons can find a lot of treats around human homes.

Thus, they climb near houses and often scale structures to locate a safe place to live while scavenging for food. Some roof styles allow raccoons to dwell on top of the roof in a nest. All they need is a sheltered spot that protects them from the weather. Alternatively, they may use the roof as a way to get into the attic, crawl space, or a wall void.

Raccoons are surprisingly good climbers. Their hand-like claws are perfect for clambering up structures. They can potentially scale downspouts on gutter systems. Additionally, raccoons may climb trees, fences, decks, and TV antennas to help them get up on the roof. Basically, if there is something that gives them a little grip, raccoons can probably climb it.

Raccoons’ Impressive Skills

Beyond climbing, raccoons have some other impressive skills that help them get around. Perhaps most significantly, they are very capable problem solvers. Many people are amazed at the intelligence that raccoons display. They can really surprise, as well as frustrate, homeowners with their resourcefulness.

Additionally, they are very good at getting through small gaps. Raccoons are smaller than they appear and quite flexible. So, like cats, they can squeeze through spaces that look way too small for them.

Dealing With Raccoon Removal

If you have raccoons living on your property, you should deal with the issue promptly. Although they are rather extraordinary creatures, they can pose health risks to humans and pets. Plus, they will more than happily use all the resources at their disposal to make themselves comfortable. Therefore, you may find damage to your home and missing food. They also famously knock over trash receptacles to get at any leftover morsels.

Of course, by the same token, you shouldn’t try to handle a raccoon problem yourself. They can bite and scratch when threatened. If you find a nest with babies, you should be especially careful not to disturb them.

Furthermore, getting rid of raccoons is surprisingly challenging. They are smart and capable. If you try to catch them with DIY traps, chances are you will simply end up filled with frustration, or harm the animals. The best solution is to call in professional wildlife control experts to help with the issue.

Schedule Raccoon Removal in Waukesha

Do you need to remove some raccoons from your property in Waukesha or the surrounding area? It is time to get the right help. Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Waukesha is the go-to provider for effective, humane, and long-term wildlife removal. We can deal with raccoons, rats, mice, bats, birds, and many other forms of wildlife. Contact us today to get the help you need to deal with your wildlife infestation.