How to Keep Raccoons Away

With their striking ringed tail and trademark 'lone ranger' mask, raccoons may appear to be cute and cuddly little critters. While they are inquisitive and intelligent, and not particularly frightened by humans, they are wild animals with sharp teeth and claws and can inflict serious injury if cornered or threatened. Raccoons will eat almost anything and they can be quite a nuisance if they decide your neighborhood is their new home and your garbage can is their favorite restaurant. Here are some tips for keeping raccoons away.

Things You'll Need

• Battery operated waterproof portable radio
• Motion sensor outdoor lighting
• Ammonia in a spray bottle
• Commercial grade raccoon repellent
• Humane raccoon traps
• Thick leather gloves

Instructions

1. Press the lid securely in place on all garbage cans. Secure the lids to the garbage cans with rope or sturdy cords. Most raccoons invade human space when they are looking for food. If the food supply is easier to obtain elsewhere, they are more likely to leave your property alone.

2. Place a battery operated, waterproof portable radio near any site of suspected raccoon activity. Turn the radio on. The volume does not have to be high. Raccoon's do not like being around humans and will be discouraged by the sound of human voices.

3. Install motion sensor activated outdoor lighting near any site of suspected raccoon activity. As nocturnal animals, raccoons do not like bright light and will avoid it when possible.

4. Spray a small amount of ammonia in and around all garbage cans. Raccoons don't like the smell and will be discouraged from digging around in your trash.

5. Remove all pet food from accessible outdoor locations by sundown. Remove all sources of water, with the exception of water that is necessary for pets by sundown.

6. Spray a commercial grade raccoon repellent around garbage cans and in other sites of suspected raccoon activity. Repellents containing wolf urine appear to be most effective.

7. Place humane raccoon traps in areas of suspected raccoon activity. Set up the traps in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Once the animal is captured, relocate it at least 10 miles from human habitation to prevent its return.

Tips & Warnings

• Raccoons are highly intelligent and persistent. They are good problem solvers and will learn from repeated attempts to breach your security.

• Your local animal control department can provide assistance and information on controlling wildlife in your area.

• Raccoons can carry parasites and diseases, including rabies. Be extremely cautious around them, particularly if you encounter one during daylight hours.

• Raccoons will bite when threatened. Always wear thick protective gloves when handling traps with a raccoon inside.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish