Raccoons may look harmless, but their presence in or around your home can quickly escalate into a serious problem. Recognizing the early signs of a raccoon infestation can save you time, money, and potential health risks. Here’s how to identify when it’s time to call in the professionals.
1. Unusual Noises at Night
Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, so if you’re hearing scratching, thumping, or scampering sounds in your attic, walls, or chimney at night, it’s a strong indicator of raccoon activity. These sounds often signal nesting or searching for food.
2. Damaged Entry Points
Raccoons are incredibly resourceful when it comes to finding ways into your home. Look for damaged vents, torn shingles, or claw marks near your roofline, soffits, or chimneys. They can pry open weak spots to gain entry, especially during breeding seasons.
3. Scattered Trash or Food Scraps
A clear sign of raccoon activity is overturned garbage bins and scattered food scraps around your property. Raccoons are notorious for raiding trash cans in search of an easy meal. Secure your bins to prevent further messes.
4. Tracks and Droppings
Raccoon tracks are unmistakable—they resemble small hand-prints with five fingers. You might find these prints near entry points or around your yard. Additionally, raccoon droppings are often found in communal areas and can pose serious health risks, as they may carry diseases like raccoon roundworm.
5. Strong Odors
If you notice an unusual, musky smell in certain areas of your home, it could indicate raccoon nesting or urine. This odor can quickly spread through the house, making it essential to address the issue promptly.
6. Visible Nests or Chewed Insulation
Raccoons often use attics, crawl spaces, or chimneys to build their nests. If you discover shredded insulation, wood, or other materials arranged in a nest-like structure, it’s time to investigate further.
7. Aggressive Behavior from Nearby Wildlife
Raccoons are territorial animals. If you notice them becoming aggressive toward pets or other wildlife around your property, it’s a sign they may be nesting nearby and feel threatened.
Why You Need Professional Raccoon Removal Services
While it may be tempting to address the issue yourself, raccoons are unpredictable and can become aggressive if cornered. Moreover, they carry diseases like rabies and leptospirosis, which pose significant health risks to your family and pets.
Professional raccoon removal experts use humane and effective methods to safely capture and relocate these animals. They also identify and seal entry points to prevent future infestations, ensuring your property remains protected.
Trust Chicago’s Green Trappers for Raccoon Removal
At Chicago’s Green Trappers, we specialize in safe and humane raccoon removal services. Our team conducts thorough inspections to assess the situation and implement targeted solutions that protect your family and property.
Don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Contact us today for a free estimate and regain peace of mind knowing your home is raccoon-free.