Raccoons: Cute, But Still Pests

Are you on the fence about raccoons? Are you interested in getting rid of them? This guide to raccoons will help you understand the impact they have and what you can do to get rid of them.

Raccoons may look cute, but they also carry risks. Not only do they pose a risk to your property and home, but they can also impact your health and the health of your pets.

Raccoons spread a number of diseases, with rabies being one of the most prominent. In fact, raccoons are one of the primary carriers of the fatal illness, which can impact bitten animals and humans.

Raccoons also pass on ringworm. Ringworm varies in severity, and it also impacts humans and pets. For some people, ringworm shows few to no symptoms. However, very little contact is needed for ringworm to pass on.

These pests can also kill pets and other animals living on your property. Raccoons are often aggressive, especially when vying for food. This means your beloved pets could get into scuffles with these pests that leave your pets injured or worse.

Raccoons cause damage to homes each year. Some raccoons get in through the roof of a home, causing damage to an attic or crawlspace. When raccoons get into a home in this manner, they can also make holes that allow water to enter. You could face structural damage from water seeping in and causing mold.

Once inside your home, a raccoon can wreak havoc. Raccoons can tear apart walls, pipes, and anything else they find in your home. The result could be potentially damaging structural issues that require repair and reconstruction.

Raccoons are relatively easy to identify, especially if you have seen a picture of one of these creatures before. They typically have a furry black mask around their eyes and a large tail. Raccoons often stand on their hind legs to get into places they do not belong.

Some people never actually see the raccoons themselves but rather spot the footprints, nests, and other telltale signs. Follow tracks to ensure that they don't lead to nests under or in your home.

You can also identify signs that raccoons are present by paying attention to your home. Significant changes or damage to the insulation, shingles, or wiring of your home often indicates that pests are afoot.

One of the first things you can do is seal up trashcans, discouraging raccoons from finding food that you throw out. Additionally, avoid leaving food for pets outdoors where a raccoon can get to it. When raccoons don't find food nearby, they are likely more tempted to leave.

If you fear raccoons entering your home, pay attention to entry points. Many homeowners forget about access available through the chimney. Close the chimney when it is not in use, as raccoons may use your chimney as a warm nest.

Working with a professional can help you say goodbye to raccoons for good. Rodent experts know how to trap raccoons and remove them from your property in a humane way. Professionals can also provide you with information for preventing raccoons from returning.

Southwest Exterminating provides pest control services in the Houston area. Are you interested in getting rid of rodents and other pests around your home? Call our office today to set up an appointment. Our technicians are well-acquainted with pests and rodents that frequent your area.