How to Raccoon-Proof Your Property for Long-Term Prevention
Raccoons are notorious for their mischievous behavior and ability to infiltrate homes and properties in search of food and shelter. These intelligent creatures can cause significant damage to your property and create a nuisance for homeowners. However, with a few preventive measures, you can effectively raccoon-proof your property and deter these furry bandits for the long term.
Secure Trash and Recycling Bins
Raccoons are notorious scavengers that are attracted to easily accessible food sources. Make sure your trash and recycling bins have tight-fitting lids or use bungee cords to secure them. Consider storing bins in a secure shed or garage to prevent raccoons from knocking them over and rummaging through the contents.
Remove Outdoor Food Sources
Raccoons are opportunistic eaters and will take advantage of any available food source. Keep your outdoor areas clean by removing fallen fruits, nuts, and birdseed regularly. Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight and clean up any spills or leftovers promptly.
Seal Entry Points
Inspect your property for potential entry points that raccoons could exploit, such as loose or damaged vents, chimneys, and crawl spaces. Use sturdy materials like wire mesh or hardware cloth to seal these openings while ensuring proper ventilation. Raccoons are skilled climbers, so remember to trim tree branches that could provide access to your roof.
Reinforce Fences and Gates
Raccoons are excellent climbers and can easily scale fences. Reinforce your existing fences by attaching a sturdy barrier like chicken wire or hardware cloth to the top. Ensure that gates are securely closed and consider adding a latch or lock to prevent raccoons from pushing them open.
Install Motion-Activated Lights and Sprinklers
Raccoons prefer dark and quiet environments. Install motion-activated lights around your property to deter raccoons from approaching. Similarly, motion-activated sprinkler systems can startle raccoons with a burst of water, discouraging them from entering your yard or garden.
Protect Your Garden
Raccoons have a knack for damaging gardens, especially vegetable patches. Use fencing with small mesh openings to create a barrier around your garden beds. You can also try planting marigolds or other natural deterrents around your garden, as raccoons dislike their scent. Additionally, consider covering fruits and vegetables with netting or using raised garden beds to make them less accessible.
Employ Repellents
Certain smells and tastes are unpleasant to raccoons and can act as effective deterrents. Use commercial or homemade repellents that contain ingredients like hot peppers, ammonia, or garlic near potential entry points, garbage bins, or garden areas. Be sure to reapply these repellents regularly, especially after rainfall.
Be Mindful of Water Sources
Raccoons are drawn to water sources for drinking and bathing. Prevent raccoons from accessing pools, ponds, or birdbaths by using covers or netting. Be cautious with standing water and avoid leaving buckets, containers, or hoses filled for extended periods.
Protecting your property from raccoons requires a combination of proactive measures and consistent maintenance. By implementing these long-term prevention strategies, you can effectively raccoon-proof your property and minimize the risk of raccoon-related damage. Remember, it is essential to address potential entry points, secure food sources, and employ various deterrents to discourage raccoons from invading your space. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a raccoon-free property and ensure the safety and well-being of your home and its surroundings.
Prefer to leave the work up to the professionals? Contact the team at Critter Control of Columbus today. We will secure your property from raccoons and keep your yard, garden, and family safe!