Raccoons

Raccoon Management Tips for Your Property

Raccoons are adaptable and resourceful creatures that often seek shelter in abandoned dens, hollow trees, crawl spaces, storm drains, attics, and chimneys. Signs of raccoon activity include shredded sod in your yard, 4-6 inch holes in your roof, and scratches or smudge marks on trees or buildings where they’ve climbed. These animals can also cause significant damage to crops and gardens, particularly sweet corn and watermelons, and may even break into coops to steal poultry and eggs.

To effectively manage raccoons around your property, start by eliminating potential food sources. Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids or use raccoon-proof containers, and avoid leaving pet food, bird seed, or compost outdoors overnight. Harvest fruits and vegetables from your garden as soon as they ripen to prevent raccoons from feasting on them.

To prevent raccoons from entering your home, seal all possible entry points. Inspect your roof, chimneys, vents, and attics for gaps, and use heavy-gauge hardware cloth or metal flashing to block access. If a raccoon has already taken residence, use humane eviction methods like placing lights or a radio in the area to encourage it to leave. Once the animal has vacated, promptly seal the entry point to prevent re-entry.

For garden protection, motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle and deter raccoons, while electric fencing around vegetable gardens is also effective. In cases where raccoons become especially troublesome, live trapping may be an option, but always adhere to local wildlife regulations and relocate the animal to a suitable environment. By addressing food sources, securing shelter sites, and using effective deterrents, you can manage raccoons while keeping your property safe and secure.

Nebraska Wildlife Contact

Website: nebraskawildliferehab.org
Phone: (402) 234-2573