Raccoon infestations are a common nuisance in Atlanta, often leading homeowners to seek effective and humane solutions for their properties. These nocturnal critters can wreak havoc, from getting into trash bins to nesting in attics, drawing significant concern for both property damage and health risks. As raccoons are highly adaptable and resourceful, it becomes imperative to address the issue promptly and efficiently.

Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Atlanta stands out as a trusted expert in dealing with these clever intruders. With a deep understanding of raccoon behavior and a commitment to humane wildlife removal, they ensure that raccoons are safely removed and excluded from properties without harm. 

This piece will explore the common challenges posed by raccoon infestations, the steps involved in professional wildlife removal, and provide expert tips on keeping these persistent animals at bay. Let’s delve into effective solutions for the pressing question: How to get rid of raccoons on your property?

Living with Raccoons: Adaptable Neighbors or Stealthy Troublemakers?

Raccoons are highly adaptable animals that thrive in urban and suburban areas. They are attracted to these environments due to the abundance of food sources and shelter options. Whether it’s your garbage, pet food, or even bird feeders, these opportunistic creatures find plenty to sustain themselves in residential neighborhoods.

Raccoons are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. They have a diverse diet that includes fruits, vegetables, small animals, and even insects. Their dexterous front paws make them adept at opening containers and accessing food sources, which is why your trash bins may often turn into their buffet tables.

Having raccoons around is not just inconvenient; it can also be dangerous. They are known to cause significant property damage by tearing up insulation, chewing wires, and creating entry points in roofs and attics. Additionally, raccoons can transmit diseases such as rabies and leptospirosis, posing health risks to you and your family.

Encounters between raccoons and pets or small children can be hazardous. Raccoons can become aggressive if they feel threatened, and their bites or scratches can lead to serious infections. It’s essential to ensure that everyone in your household is aware of the dangers and knows how to avoid contact with these animals.

Common Signs of a Raccoon Infestation

When raccoons make themselves at home on your property, there are several tell-tale signs that can alert us to their presence. From overturned garbage bins to peculiar noises in the attic, these clever animals leave a trail of evidence that can help us identify their unwelcome visit.

Firstly, overturned garbage cans are a major indicator. These nocturnal critters often explore our trash bins in search of food, leaving a mess in their wake. If you start noticing that your garbage can lids are consistently removed or bins are turned over, it’s likely due to raccoon activity. 

Another sign is physical damage to your home’s exterior. Check for chewed-up soffits and roof shingles, as raccoons use their dexterous paws to create entry points into attics and crawl spaces. Additionally, listen for unusual noises during the night, such as scratching, thumping, or squeaking from above, which often indicates raccoons are nesting in your attic.

To confirm your suspicions further, look for raccoon tracks and droppings. Their tracks are unique, resembling small human handprints with five toes, and can often be found in muddy or soft ground around your home. As for droppings, they are typically dark, cylindrical, and about the size of a cat’s. Finding these around your property can be another strong indicator of raccoon activity. 

Navigating Wildlife Laws in Atlanta: Protecting Property and Wildlife

When dealing with wildlife issues on your property, it’s crucial to be aware of the local laws and regulations that govern wildlife protection in Atlanta. These guidelines are not only designed to protect you and your property but to ensure that any removal efforts are conducted humanely and within legal boundaries. Engaging in improper removal methods can lead to hefty fines and possibly legal action, making it paramount that we understand and adhere to these laws.

In Atlanta, certain wildlife species are protected by state and federal regulations, and raccoons fall under this scope. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) sets forth clear rules regarding the humane treatment and relocation of animals. We must follow these directives carefully to avoid legal repercussions and ensure that raccoons are handled ethically. For instance, it’s illegal to use inhumane traps or methods that can harm the animals unnecessarily. 

By working with professional wildlife control services like Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we can rest assured that all actions will be in full compliance with the law. These experts are well-versed in both the legal requirements and the ethical considerations needed in dealing with wildlife issues. They employ safe and humane techniques, reducing the risk of injury to both people and animals.

Preventative Measures to Keep Raccoons Away

Keeping raccoons away from your property requires a combination of diligent housekeeping and professional preventive measures. Here are some actionable tips to help deter these crafty creatures and safeguard your home:

• Secure Trash Bins: Ensure all trash bins are tightly closed and raccoon-proof. Consider using bins with locking lids or securing them with bungee cords to prevent raccoons from accessing the contents.

• Remove Food Sources: Eliminate any potential food sources, including pet food left outside, bird seed, and fallen fruits or vegetables from your garden. Clean BBQ grills thoroughly after use to remove residues that may attract raccoons.

• Use Raccoon-Proof Enclosures: Employ heavy-duty enclosures for compost bins and other attractants. Choose materials that raccoons cannot chew through or disassemble easily.

• Seal Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection to identify and seal any gaps or openings in your home’s exterior. This includes soffits, vents, and rooflines. Use durable materials that are resistant to raccoon tampering.

• Install Deterrent Devices: Consider installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers around your property. These deterrent devices can startle raccoons and discourage them from lingering near your home.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of raccoons intruding upon your property. For an added layer of protection, our professionals at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control can help implement comprehensive preventive measures. We ensure all potential entry points are secured and deterrent devices are effectively installed, providing you with peace of mind and a raccoon-free home.

Get Rid of Raccoons Humanely Today!

Dealing with raccoons presents a unique set of challenges that require careful consideration and effective strategies. Raccoons are cunning and resourceful, capable of causing significant damage to property as they search for food and shelter. The potential health risks associated with raccoon droppings and the likelihood of these animals nesting in secluded areas of your home add layers of complexity to this issue. DIY methods often fall short in addressing these problems efficiently and humanely.

This is where professional wildlife removal services, particularly Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, shine. Our trained experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring that raccoon issues are resolved comprehensively and compassionately. We employ humane removal methods, adhere to all legal requirements, and implement exclusion techniques to prevent future invasions.

If you’re facing raccoon problems and are seeking a reliable solution, look no further than our wildlife control services. Our team in Atlanta specializes in humane and effective wildlife removal, leveraging our expertise to keep your property safe and raccoon-free. Understanding what raccoons eat and their behaviors helps us devise tailored strategies that work.

To learn more about our services or to request a quote, contact us today. We are here to provide you with peace of mind and a safe environment for you and your family. Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control – your trusted partner in wildlife removal in Atlanta.