Raccoon Identification & Prevention

What are raccoons?

Raccoons are cat-sized mammals that are easily recognizable because of their unique markings. They are among the most familiar wild animals to find their way to our Cumming, Georgia, properties. They are most well-known for their black “mask” of fur that covers their eyes. In addition, raccoons have whitish patches on top of the eyes and around the nose. Their body is covered in salt and pepper-colored fur, and their tail is gray with black rings.

Are raccoons dangerous?

While most raccoons are unlikely to be aggressive, they can spread bacteria and disease-causing pathogens, including rabies, leptospirosis, and salmonella. They carry many parasites like fleas and ticks that they can introduce into our yards and homes. 

In addition to health risks, raccoons are destructive. Raccoons are challenging to keep out of buildings and other unwanted areas as their hand-like paws allow them to manipulate objects and dig through your lawn and gardens.

If you own dogs, having raccoons rummaging around your home and yard can drive them crazy and cause excessive, annoying barking. 

Raccoons are wildlife and pose a danger to people. Therefore, removing raccoons from your property is never something to handle on your own; always partner with a professional when dealing with these pests.

Why do I have an raccoon problem?

Raccoons have adapted to living near people and have learned that our yards and homes provide them with helpful food, water, and shelter sources. Some of their favorite places to make their dens include under decks, inside chimneys, crawl spaces, brush piles, hollow trees, and rock piles. 

Signs of a raccoon problem include scratch marks and droppings at the base of trees in your yard, overturned trashcans or compost bins, trash bags that have been torn open, and torn siding and window screens or damaged chimney caps. 

At any sign or notice of raccoons in your yard, consult with a professional and implement a wildlife control plan.

Where will I find raccoons?

Raccoons live across the country, taking up residence in many different types of habitats, including:

• Wooded areas
• Fields
• Wetlands
• Parks
• Suburban, urban, and rural areas

Most raccoons are nocturnal. They rest during the day in their dens and emerge at night to scavenge for food and water. These animals are omnivores and have a varied diet of nuts, fruits, vegetables, insects, eggs, and other proteins. Their favorite foraging sites include dumpsters, trash cans, pet food dishes, gardens, fruit trees, and chicken coops.