To get rid of raccoons effectively and humanely, consider the following steps:
Remove Attractants
- Eliminate food sources such as pet food, birdseed, compost piles, and unsecured trash cans, which attract raccoons
- Store birdseed in tightly sealed metal containers and remove bird feeders at night or use raccoon-proof feeders
- Treat your lawn to remove grubs, a natural food source for raccoons
Block Access and Shelter
- Identify and seal off potential raccoon hiding spots like attics, decks, sheds, or holes under your house
- Use barriers or netting to prevent raccoons from entering these areas
Use Repellents and Deterrents
- Apply natural repellents such as cayenne pepper, hot sauce, ammonia-soaked rags, or mothballs around your property
- Spray a mixture of cayenne pepper and onion boiled in water around the base of your home; reapply after rain
- Use predator urine (coyote, wolf, or bobcat) to create the scent of danger and discourage raccoons
- Plant cucumbers or spread Irish Spring soap flakes, peppermint oil, or blood meal around your garden to repel raccoons
Install Motion-Activated Devices
- Set up motion-activated lights and sprinklers to startle and scare raccoons away
- Consider water spray devices like the "Scarecrow," which sprays water when motion is detected, effectively deterring raccoons without harm
Use Noise and Light
- Loud noises such as clapping, wind chimes, or sonic deterrent devices emitting high-pitched sounds can discourage raccoons from settling
Humane Trapping and Removal
- If raccoons persist, contact professional wildlife removal services that use humane trapping and relocation methods while minimizing stress to the animals
By combining these methods-removing food and shelter, using repellents, and employing motion-activated deterrents-you can effectively get rid of raccoons and prevent their return
