THE RACCOON
The raccoon is an animal that finds its origin in America. It owes its name to its habit, more or less real, to soak its food in water before eating it.
Raccoons are small nocturnal animals that can easily climb trees with their sharp claws.
There are several breeds of raccoons, but the most common and prevalent in North America is recognized by its black mask with white borders around the eyes, giving it the appearance of a thief, and its tail with alternating light and black rings. These animals adapt to many natural environments including the urban environment.
WHAT DO RACCOONS EAT?
As omnivores, these small wild animals consume not only fruits such as cherries, wild grapes, blueberries, apples, etc., but also tubers, acorns, prunes, peaches, lemons, figs, beechnuts, melons or nuts.
These unwanted animals can also be carnivorous. They eat insects, crayfish, frogs, rodents, fish and bird eggs are part of their diet.
Raccoons also frequent garbage cans in urban areas and do not hesitate to feed on the carcass of dead animals, found on the side of the road.
IS THE RACCOON MORE USEFUL THAN HARMFUL?
It is true that the raccoon’s menu includes small rodents and insect pests which is a positive point for the environment. But it has the annoying way of devastating garbage cans, of prowling around houses being aggressive if we stand in its way, it introduces itself in our attics and damages the insulation, without forgetting that it can be carrier of the rabies virus like the bats.
Finally, yes, it is an animal that is more harmful than useful in an urban environment.
HOW DO I KEEP RACCOONS AWAY?
Here are 8 tips to help you keep these little masked thieves away:
- Installing lights that detect movement
- Clean your garbage cans
- Limit access to water bodies
- Use motion sensor sprinklers
- Spray a spicy solution
- Use an ultrasonic repellent
- Block access to sheds and garages
- Prepare ammonia soaked balls
HOW TO KEEP RACCOONS OUT OF GARBAGE CANS?
- Don’t hesitate to use a metal trash can with a lid that is quite difficult to remove.
- Place your garbage bags directly into a hinged lid box with a latch.
- Put out the garbage on the morning of the collection day.
CONTACT AN EXTERMINATION SPECIALIST TO GET RID OF RACCOONS!
HOW TO KEEP RACCOONS OUT OF THE GARDEN?
- Dip tennis balls in ammonia and scatter them around your garden or hide them in trees. Place these tennis balls high up if you have pets at home so they don’t mistake them for toys.
- You can spray the entire perimeter of your garden with cayenne pepper after boiling it with water in a pot. Remember to use a mask and gloves during preparation to avoid any type of contact with the eyes.
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