2. Avoid Direct Contact with the Animal
If you confirm that a raccoon is in your attic, do not attempt to handle the animal yourself. Raccoons are wild animals and can become aggressive if threatened. They can carry diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and parasites like ticks and mites, making them dangerous to handle.
3. Ensure the Animal Is Not Trapped
Before taking any action, make sure that the raccoon is not trapped inside your attic and unable to leave. Sometimes, raccoons enter attics through holes or gaps in the roof or walls but may not be able to get back out.
If the animal appears to be trapped, you may need to help it exit the attic safely. Keep in mind that the raccoon might be frightened and aggressive, so this should be left to professionals if possible.
4. Close Off Entry Points
Once you’ve identified that there is a raccoon in your attic, it’s critical to close off any entry points. These can be holes in the roof, gaps around chimneys, or vents that the raccoon has used to gain access.
Inspect the roof: Look for missing shingles, broken vent covers, or loose flashing that may allow the raccoon entry.
Seal entry points: Use materials like steel mesh, caulk, or hardware cloth to seal holes. Ensure there are no openings large enough for the raccoon to squeeze through.
However, do not seal up the entry points immediately. Raccoons often have babies (kits) inside the attic, and closing the entryway could trap them inside, leading to more problems. It’s best to wait until you are sure the raccoon and its babies are no longer in the attic.
5. Create an Exit Strategy
If the raccoon is not trapped and is simply nesting in your attic, it’s essential to give it a way to exit. Consider installing a one-way exclusion door. This is a device that allows the raccoon to leave the attic but prevents it from getting back inside.
Install a one-way door: These are typically installed over the hole or gap where the raccoon entered. The animal can leave but can’t return through the same entrance.
Monitor the situation: Keep an eye on the https://micecontrolrichmondhill.ca/ attic for a few days to ensure the raccoon exits the premises.
6. Call a Wildlife Removal Professional
If you’re unsure about handling the situation on your own, or if the raccoon refuses to leave, it’s best to call a professional wildlife removal service. These experts can safely remove the raccoon, including any babies, and help you address the underlying issue by securing entry points and performing repairs.
Professionals also have the experience to ensure that the removal is done legally, as raccoons are protected by laws in many areas, requiring certain protocols to be followed during their relocation.
7. Prevent Future Intrusions
After removing the raccoon, it’s essential to take steps to prevent future intrusions. Raccoons are persistent animals and will often return if given the chance. Here’s what you can do:
Trim trees: Raccoons often access attics by climbing trees near the house and jumping onto the roof. Trim branches that overhang your home to make it harder for them to reach your attic.
Secure trash and food sources: Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and remove pet food or birdseed that may attract raccoons.
Install a chimney cap: A sturdy chimney cap can prevent raccoons from entering through your chimney.
Regular attic inspections: Periodically inspect your attic for any new signs of entry points or potential weaknesses.
8. Clean Up After the Raccoon
After the raccoon has been safely removed, it’s crucial to clean up any droppings, urine, or nests left behind in your attic. Raccoon waste can carry diseases, so take appropriate safety precautions when handling it.
Wear protective gear: Use gloves, a mask, and other protective clothing when cleaning the attic.
Disinfect thoroughly: Clean and disinfect all areas affected by raccoon waste to prevent disease transmission and odor.
Conclusion
Having a raccoon in your attic can be a stressful and potentially hazardous situation. However, with the right approach, you can safely remove the animal and prevent future invasions. Remember to act quickly, avoid direct contact, and seek professional help if needed. By taking the necessary steps to seal entry points and make your home less inviting, you can avoid recurring raccoon problems in the future.