Raccoons are attracted to easy food sources, and unsecured garbage bins are a prime target. Use heavy-duty trash cans with tight-fitting lids and consider adding locks or bungee cords to keep them securely closed.
Avoid leaving pet food, birdseed, or any other potential food sources outside. Feed pets indoors and clean up any food scraps or fallen fruit from trees promptly. Raccoons are opportunistic feeders and will be deterred by the lack of accessible food.
Raccoons are nocturnal and prefer to forage in the dark. Installing motion-activated lights can startle them and deter them from your property. Similarly, motion-activated sprinklers can scare raccoons away with sudden bursts of water.
Commercial raccoon repellents are available in various forms, including sprays and granules. These products often contain ingredients that raccoons find unpleasant, such as ammonia or predator urine.
Inspect your home and yard for potential entry points that raccoons could use to access attics, basements, or sheds. Seal any gaps or holes with sturdy materials like hardware cloth, metal flashing, or caulk.
Raccoons are excellent climbers and may use overhanging tree branches or dense shrubs to gain access to your roof or attic. Trim back any branches that are close to your home and keep shrubs well-maintained to reduce hiding spots.
Some natural substances can deter raccoons due to their strong smells. Sprinkle substances like cayenne pepper, ammonia-soaked rags, or vinegar around areas you want to protect. Be cautious with ammonia and vinegar as they can be harmful
A well-constructed fence can be an effective barrier against raccoons. Opt for a fence that is at least 4 feet high and buried a few inches into the ground to prevent digging. Adding an outward-facing overhang or electric wire at the top can further discourage climbing.