Raccoons
How To Prevent Raccoon Entry Into Chimneys
Raccoons can access rooftops by their ability to climb trees, vines, and downspouts and enter chimneys.
Fasten a commercial spark arrestor cap of sheet metal and hardware cloth over the opening of the chimney in order to prevent their entry. Loose shingles and holes near the eaves of the roof need to be repaired. Trimming trees and shrubs may be useful in limiting access.
Trapping Raccoons
Using live traps with bait inside the traps is the best method to remove them from buildings. Use baits such as fish, fresh vegetables, cat food, chicken parts, bacon, corn, and sardines. Change the bait every couple of days.
Raccoons Getting Into Garbage Cans
Put tight-fitting tops on garbage cans; this will keep out most raccoons. If the cans are tipped over, it may be necessary to wire the garbage cans shut. Place the garbage cans on a rack to prevent them from tipping over.
Excluding Raccoons
When excluding raccoons from your house during the spring or summer months, be careful not to seal any young raccoons inside. If you seal them inside, it may cause painful death and cause more damage to the structure. The average age of a young raccoon that leaves the nest is 10-14 weeks. Raccoons have one litter a year, ranging from 3-6 young raccoons.
