Raccoon invasions can disrupt the peace and safety of Lakeland Highlands, FL neighborhoods. These clever creatures are drawn to residential areas in search of food and shelter, often causing damage and posing health risks to residents. In this guide, we’ll delve into the challenges of raccoon infestations and provide valuable insights and solutions offered by Wildout Animal and Pest Removal.

Understanding Raccoon Behavior

Raccoons are clever creatures that can adapt to different environments. They’re native to North America and are often found in places like Lakeland Highlands, FL. They’re drawn to neighborhoods because there’s lots of food sources, such as garbage cans, compost bins, and even people’s gardens. Raccoons have nimble front paws that let them grab and move things easily, which makes them really good at finding food wherever they go. Additionally, raccoons are known for their intelligence and problem-solving skills. They can figure out how to open containers, climb fences, and even get into houses if they’re looking for food or shelter. This adaptability and resourcefulness make raccoons skilled scavengers, able to thrive in various habitats.

Identifying Signs of Raccoon Presence

Recognizing signs of raccoon activity is crucial for effectively managing raccoon infestations. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

1. Physical Damage

Raccoons can wreak havoc on your property. They tear up screens, shingles, and insulation, and chew on wires. They often seek shelter in attics, crawl spaces, chimneys, and sheds, leaving behind noticeable damage.

2. Scat and Tracks

Keep an eye out for raccoon droppings, known as scat. They look like small tubes with rounded ends and may contain bits of undigested food. Their paw prints have five toes and resemble tiny hands, providing evidence of their presence.

3. Audible Noises

Raccoons are primarily active at night. Listen for scratching, thumping, or vocalizations coming from your attic, walls, or roof spaces. These noises often indicate their movement and activity within your property.

4. Foraging Behavior

Raccoons are opportunistic feeders. They will scavenge for food wherever they can find it. They’re notorious for raiding garbage cans, bird feeders, and even pet food left outside. Look for scattered trash or food remnants as signs of their foraging activity.

Recognizing these signs early helps manage raccoon problems. Stay alert and act promptly to prevent property damage.

Helpful for you: Why You Need to Remove Raccoons from Your Residence

Health Risks Posed by Raccoon Infestations

Beyond the visible damage to property, raccoons pose various health risks to humans and pets. These animals can carry and transmit diseases such as:

1. Rabies

Raccoons are a primary carrier of the rabies virus, which can be transmitted through bites or scratches. Rabies is a fatal viral infection that affects the central nervous system and poses a serious threat to public health.

2. Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis)

Raccoon feces may contain roundworm eggs, which can survive in the environment for years. Accidental ingestion or inhalation of contaminated soil or feces can lead to severe neurological damage or even death in humans and animals.

3. Leptospirosis

This bacterial disease can be contracted through contact with raccoon urine or contaminated water sources. Symptoms range from mild flu-like illness to severe complications, including liver and kidney failure.

To address these risks safely, it’s important to promptly seek professional wildlife removal services. Doing so ensures proper handling of potential health hazards and promotes the well-being of both residents and wildlife.

How to Remove Raccoons from Your Property

If you suspect raccoons on your property, follow these steps to deter them:

1. Secure Trash Bins – Use lockable lids or keep garbage indoors until collection day.
2. Eliminate Food Sources – Remove pet food, clean up fallen fruit, and secure compost bins.
3. Seal Entry Points – Inspect your home for openings and seal off access to attics and crawl spaces.
4. Use Motion-Activated Devices – Lights, sprinklers, and ultrasonic deterrents can scare raccoons away.
5. Install Fencing – Bury fences at least 12 inches deep to prevent raccoons from digging under.
6. Call Professional Wildlife Control – DIY removal can be dangerous. Experts use humane and effective trapping methods.

How WildOut Animal & Pest Control Can Help You

At WildOut Animal & Pest Control, we provide expert wildlife removal services in Lakeland, FL. Our team is experienced in handling raccoon infestations safely and effectively. Here’s how we can help:

• Humane Trapping & Relocation – We use ethical and legal methods to capture and relocate raccoons.
• Thorough Property Inspections – We identify entry points and weak spots that raccoons use to invade homes.
• Damage Repair & Sanitation – We clean and disinfect contaminated areas, preventing health risks.
• Prevention Strategies – We provide customized solutions to keep raccoons from returning.

Conclusion

Raccoons are intelligent and persistent, making them difficult to manage without professional help. If you’re experiencing a raccoon invasion in Lakeland, FL, taking quick action is essential. Sealing entry points, removing food sources, and working with a trusted wildlife control service like WildOut Animal & Pest Control can ensure long-term protection for your home and family.

FAQs

Are raccoons dangerous?

Raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and roundworms, which pose serious health risks to both humans and pets. If they feel threatened, they may become aggressive, especially when protecting their young. Additionally, they can cause extensive property damage by chewing through wires, tearing insulation, and damaging roofing materials, leading to costly repairs.

What attracts raccoons to my property?

Raccoons are drawn to food sources such as uncovered trash, pet food left outside, compost piles, and fruit that has fallen from trees. They also look for warm and secure shelter in places like attics, sheds, chimneys, and crawl spaces. Homes with easy access to food and shelter are more likely to experience recurring raccoon problems.

Can I remove raccoons myself?

Attempting to remove raccoons on your own can be dangerous and is not recommended. These animals may react aggressively when cornered, and improper handling can expose you to bites, scratches, and diseases. Additionally, wildlife removal laws vary by location, and improper trapping or relocation could be illegal. It’s best to contact a professional wildlife control service for safe and humane removal.

How can I prevent raccoons from coming back?

To keep raccoons from returning, secure all potential food sources by using lockable trash bins, keeping pet food indoors, and cleaning up fallen fruits or compost. Seal any entry points, such as gaps in your roof, attic vents, or crawl spaces, to prevent raccoons from nesting. Installing motion-activated lights, sprinklers, or ultrasonic deterrents can also help scare them away from your property.