Raccoons are like rats - they're happier in urban environments than out in the wild. As a result, they often make their way into local residences and get comfortable. They're smart creatures that easily know how to break into houses to nest. Consider these tips to keep these furry pests out of your home.
Raccoons are small, quick animals that feed on whatever they can find, even garbage. They like being near a water source to hunt for fish, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife noted. If they're agile enough, raccoons will climb trees to eat birds and their eggs. Urban raccoons tend to weigh around 40 pounds, much more than wild raccoons because of ample resources. Raccoons can be vicious and have long, sharp nails that they can attack with. Often, females will invade homes to have their young. Homeowners may not see the pups if they encounter a female, but they may still be there. Raccoons may not even try to get into your home. They may be a pest in your pool, garden, pond or garbage cans during their hunt for food.
If you have a raccoon problem, protect your home and call an exterminator. Raccoons are intelligent and tough to deal with. Let pest service professionals handle them.