How To Get Rid Of Raccoons Under Your Deck

Are you dealing with a raccoon problem under your deck? Here is how to get rid of raccoons under your deck. These mischievous creatures can cause havoc under your deck and also pose a potential threat to your family and pets.

But fear not! we will share some effective and humane methods to help you get rid of raccoons once and for all. So, let’s dive in and reclaim your deck from these intruders!

 

Signs of A Raccoon Infestation

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s important to identify whether you have a raccoon problem in the first place. Keep an eye out for the following signs:

1. Knocked-over trash cans: Raccoons are notorious for rummaging through garbage in search of food, so if you find your trash cans toppled over, it could be a sign of raccoon activity.
2. Tracks and droppings: Raccoon tracks resemble small handprints and can be found around your property. Their droppings are cylindrical and can contain remnants of berries or trash.
3. Strange sounds: Raccoons are vocal creatures and may make mewing, whistling, or growling sounds, especially at night.

 

How To Get Rid Of Raccoons Under Your Deck

Now that you’ve identified a raccoon infestation, it’s time to take action and evict these masked bandits from under your deck.

1. Remove Food Sources

Raccoons are attracted to easily accessible food sources, so the first step is to eliminate any temptations in your yard. Here’s what you can do:

• Secure your trash: Invest in durable metal or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids that clip into place. If raccoons are persistent, use wire or clamps to secure the lids and prevent them from accessing the garbage.
• Store pet food indoors: Bring in any outdoor pet or bird food each night. Never feed raccoons, as it will only encourage more to visit your property.
• Limit compost exposure: If you have a compost pile, make sure it is properly enclosed to prevent raccoons from scavenging through it.

By removing these food sources, you’ll make your yard less enticing to raccoons, encouraging them to seek nourishment elsewhere.

 

Read also: Do Raccoons Climb Trees?

 

2. Make Your Deck Unliveable for Them

Raccoons are drawn to the shelter and warmth under your deck. By making it inhospitable, you can discourage them from taking up residence. Here’s how:

• Install mesh barriers: Use galvanized hardware cloth or wire mesh to seal off any openings or gaps under your deck. Make sure to secure it tightly to prevent raccoons from squeezing through.
• Block access points: Inspect your deck for any entry points and seal them off using caulk or foam insulation. This will prevent raccoons from finding their way in.
• Use deterrents: Raccoons dislike strong odors, so consider using natural deterrents like vinegar-soaked rags or ammonia-soaked cotton balls placed strategically around the deck area. However, avoid using ammonia if you have pets, as it can be harmful to them.

By making your deck less inviting, raccoons will be less likely to choose it as their nesting spot.

 

3. Employ Humane Harassment Techniques

If raccoons are already nesting under your deck, you can use humane harassment techniques to encourage them to relocate. Here are a few methods to try:

• Keep lights on: Raccoons are nocturnal animals, so keeping a bright light near their entry point can make them feel exposed and vulnerable, prompting them to find a more secluded spot.
• Play talk radio: Raccoons are wary of human presence, so playing a talk radio station near their nesting area can create the illusion of human activity and deter them from staying.
• Use unpleasant smells: Raccoons have sensitive noses, so placing strong-smelling items like vinegar-soaked rags or garlic cloves near their entry point can make them think twice about staying.

Remember, these techniques aim to annoy rather than harm the raccoons. It’s important to approach wildlife control with empathy and respect for these creatures.

 

Read also: Do Raccoons Eat Dead Animals?

 

4. Seek Professional Assistance

If all else fails or if you have concerns about handling raccoons on your own, it’s best to seek professional assistance. Wildlife control specialists have the expertise and tools to safely remove raccoons from your property. They can assess the situation, trap the raccoons, and relocate them to a more suitable habitat.

 

More on How To Get Rid Of Raccoons Under Your Deck

Here’s a video that explains how to get rid of raccoons under your deck:

 

Conclusion

Dealing with raccoons under your deck can be a challenging task, but with the right methods and a humane approach, you can successfully evict them from your property.

Remember to remove food sources, make your deck inhospitable, employ humane harassment techniques, and seek professional assistance if needed. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a raccoon-free yard and deck once again. Good luck!

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