5 Tips to Deter Raccoons from Your Home

Raccoons are cute from a distance, but when they start calling your property their home, they can become a real nuisance. At The Snake Chaser, we understand the challenges these clever critters pose, especially here in Myrtle Beach where their population is thriving. Let’s explore the problems raccoons can cause and share 5 tips to deter raccoons from your home them from invading your space.

The Problem with Raccoons

Raccoons are not only a source of disturbance with their loud noises and messes; they can also cause significant damage. If raccoons gain access to your attic or crawl space, they might tear up insulation, chew on wiring and leave behind a hazardous mess with their droppings, which can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites. Moreover, raccoons are known to be aggressive if cornered or threatened, posing a direct threat to pets and humans alike.

5 Tips to Keep Raccoons Away

1. Secure Your Trash

Raccoons are notorious for rummaging through trash bins to find food. Securing your garbage cans with locking lids or storing them in a locked shed or garage can significantly reduce the likelihood of raccoon visits. Make sure to use heavy-duty containers that cannot be easily knocked over or opened.

2. Remove Food Sources

Besides securing your trash, ensure that other potential food sources are not accessible. This includes pet food, bird feeders and fallen fruits or nuts from trees. Consider feeding pets indoors and keeping bird feeders out of reach or bring them in at night.

3. Install Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers

Raccoons are generally nocturnal and prefer to stay in the dark. Installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle them and discourage them from entering your property. These devices create an uncomfortable environment for raccoons looking to settle.

4. Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for any potential entry points, such as broken vents, loose siding or holes near the roofline. Seal these openings with sturdy materials. Regular maintenance checks can help catch these vulnerabilities before raccoons do.

5. Use Repellents

There are various commercial repellents available that can deter raccoons. Natural alternatives like ammonia-soaked rags can also be used to keep raccoons at bay. Place these near potential entry points or common areas of raccoon activity.

Raccoons might be part of the local wildlife in Myrtle Beach, but they don’t have to be a part of your home. By implementing these five tips, you can greatly reduce the chances of a raccoon infestation. Remember, if raccoons have already established themselves in your home, or if you’re dealing with a persistent raccoon problem, it might be time to call in the professionals. At The Snake Chaser, we’re equipped to handle your raccoon troubles safely and effectively.