Keeping raccoons away from your house requires a multi-faceted approach. Learn how to keep raccoons away from house by removing food sources, making your yard less accessible, and using innovative deterrents like repellent lights, motion detector sprinklers, and live cage traps. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively keep raccoons away from around your home, ensuring a cozy and secure living space.
How Do I Remove Raccoon Food Sources from My Yard to Deter Them?
Raccoons can be a real nuisance when it comes to raiding your yard for food. But don’t worry, you can take steps to remove the appetizing attractions and deter these masked bandits from visiting your property. One effective way to do this is by securing your trash cans. Raccoons are attracted to the smell of food and garbage, so make sure you have tight-fitting lids on your trash cans. You can also try using bungee cords or weighted objects to keep the lids shut.
Another way to discourage raccoons from stopping by is to clean up any stagnant water sources on your property. Raccoons love to cool off and wash their food in water, so eliminate any puddles, pet dishes, or bird baths that might be attracting them. Also, keep in mind that raccoons are notorious for making a mess, so make sure to clean up any food scraps or debris from your yard as soon as possible. This will help to reduce the temptation for these curious critters to visit.
In addition to these tips, consider using deterrents like ammonia-soaked rags or sprinkling cayenne pepper around the perimeter of your yard. Raccoons have a keen sense of smell, so these substances can help to mask any appealing odors. You can also try using motion-activated sprinklers or other noise-making devices to scare them away.
Can Raccoons Really Get inside My House through My Yard?
Raccoons are clever animals that can get into all sorts of trouble. They’re known for their dexterous hands and curious nature, which often leads them to explore their surroundings. Your yard might seem like a tempting spot for a raccoon to rummage through, but can they actually get inside your house?
Raccoons are excellent climbers and have a keen sense of smell, which helps them detect food and shelter. If your yard has food scraps or pet food, raccoons might be drawn to it and attempt to raid your trash cans. They can also climb trees and walls to get closer to your home. Once they’re near your house, they might search for entry points, such as holes, gaps, or cracks in the foundation, walls, or roof.
Raccoons are skilled at finding weak spots and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. A hole as small as a quarter of an inch (about 6 mm) can be enough for a raccoon to slip through. They can also use their sharp teeth and paws to widen openings or pry open doors and windows.
- Keep your yard clean and free of food scraps
- Store trash cans with tight-fitting lids
- Seal any holes or gaps in your home’s foundation, walls, and roof
- Install door and window screens
- Trim tree branches and shrubs that touch your home
What Are Some Effective Ways to Keep Raccoons from Getting into My Trash?
So, you’re frustrated with raccoons rummaging through your trash? You’re not alone! Many people struggle to keep these masked bandits from getting into their garbage. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you out.
First, let’s talk about why raccoons are attracted to trash in the first place. They love food scraps, especially sweet and salty ones. So, it’s essential to keep your trash cans clean and empty as frequently as possible.
Here are some effective ways to keep raccoons away:
Secure Your Trash Cans
- Make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids. You can also use bungee cords or rope to tie them down.
- Consider using heavy-duty trash cans with secure latches.
- Take out the trash on the same day as collection, or at least every other day.
Use Raccoon-Proof Trash Bags
- Look for trash bags specifically designed to be raccoon-proof. They’re usually made of thicker, heavier material.
- You can also use plastic bags or containers with heavy objects inside to weigh them down.
Keep Food Waste to a Minimum
- Food waste is the biggest attractant for raccoons. Try to reduce your food waste by planning your meals and using up leftovers.
- If you do have food scraps, bury them in your yard or compost them.
Remove Attractants
- Avoid leaving pet food, bird seed, or compost piles outdoors.
- Keep your yard clean, and remove any debris or clutter.
By following these tips, you can minimize the likelihood of raccoons getting into your trash. And who knows, you might even start enjoying the company of these cute critters from a distance!
