Raccoons are a common problem for homeowners in Louisiana. Known for their intelligence and adaptability, these critters can cause a range of issues, from rummaging through garbage cans to nesting in crawlspaces or attics.
If you’re dealing with this nuisance wildlife, it’s important to act quickly to protect your home and family. Here’s how to get rid of raccoons safely and effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Signs of raccoons include overturned trash, scratching noises, droppings, and tracks around your property.
- Locking garbage cans and removing food sources can help make your home less attractive to raccoons.
- Gaps in roofs, vents, and soffits should be sealed with strong materials to block raccoon entry.
- Professional help is the safest option for removing raccoons and preventing future infestations.
1. CONFIRM FOR SIGNS OF A RACCOON PROBLEM
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to confirm the presence of raccoons. Common signs include:
- Tipped-over garbage cans and scattered trash.
- Unusual noises like scratching or thumping, especially at night.
- Droppings or feces that are larger than those of cats or dogs, often found near entry points or feeding areas.
- Damage to soffits, vents, or crawlspaces.
- Tracks resembling small handprints around your property.
2. SECURE FOOD SOURCES
Raccoons are always on the hunt for an easy meal, so securing food sources is a must.
Use garbage cans with locking lids, switch to raccoon-resistant bird feeders, or take them down. Bring pet food and water bowls indoors at night to avoid attracting these critters. These simple steps can make your property much less appealing.
3. INSPECT AND SEAL ENTRY POINTS
Inspecting and sealing entry points is crucial in raccoon removal.
Check your home for gaps in soffits, vents, roofing, chimneys, and crawlspaces. Install chimney caps and cover damaged vents with heavy-duty screens.
Seal any other potential entry points using durable materials like steel mesh to block access effectively.
4. SET LIVE TRAPS
Live traps are effective for capturing raccoons without harming them. Here’s how:
- Bait traps with foods raccoons love, like marshmallows or canned tuna.
- Place traps near entry points or areas where raccoon activity is highest.
- Check traps daily to avoid leaving a trapped animal for too long.
Note: In the state of Louisiana, local laws often require that raccoons be relocated or euthanized by licensed wildlife control operators. Before trapping, be sure to check state regulations.
5. REPEL RACCOONS WITH NATURAL DETERRENTS
Natural deterrents can help keep raccoons at bay.
Motion-activated sprinklers or lights are great for startling and scaring them off. To discourage them from staying, you can also place ammonia-soaked rags or commercial repellents near entry points.
HOW TO PREVENT FUTURE RACCOON PROBLEMS
Once you’ve addressed the immediate wildlife issue, take steps to keep these wild animals from returning:
- Eliminate standing water and fix leaky outdoor faucets.
- Keep your yard tidy—trim back tree branches that allow easy roof access.
- Regularly inspect your home’s exterior for new entry points.
- Use deterrents like ultrasonic repellers around your yard and home.
WHEN TO CALL PROFESSIONAL ANIMAL REMOVAL
Raccoons are more than nuisance animals and can be dangerous if cornered. If you notice baby raccoons, a large infestation, or extensive damage, contact professional animal control.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we specialize in wildlife removal services across Louisiana, including New Orleans, Slidell, Lafayette, and East Baton Rouge. Our team:
- Provides fast same-day service for emergencies.
- Offers humane and effective raccoon control tailored to Louisiana’s unique environment.
- Ensures your home remains raccoon-free with comprehensive prevention plans.
Don’t let raccoons disrupt your peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and reclaim your space!