Raccoons are cute and fuzzy, but they can also pester Brampton residents with their mischief. They can wreak havoc in your yard and home, and raccoon poop can be disgusting and deadly. Raccoons are prevalent in Brampton, so it's crucial to have a plan for deterring them with humane diy methods, or by hiring a humane raccoon removal Brampton service. This article will provide Bramptonians with a handy guide for nuisance raccoons.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Brief Overview of Raccoon Control in Brampton
How to Tell If You Have A Raccoon Problem?
What Damage to Property Can Raccoons Cause?
Should You Worry About Seeing Raccoons In the Backyard?
What Do Raccoons In The Attic Sound Like?
What Does Raccoon Poop Look Like?
What Behaviours Are Raccoons Best Known For?
How Long Do Raccoons Live?
How To Get Rid Of Raccoons
What Smells Do Raccoons Hate?
Does Trapping To Removing Raccoons Work In The Long Run?
What Are The Benefits of Hiring Professional Wildlife Control Services?
Best Practices For Choosing the Right Wildlife Control Service?
What to Do If You Encounter a Raccoon?
Who to Call For Dead or Injured Raccoon Removal on Public and Private Property?
What's The Importance of Raccoon Control In Urban Settings?
FAQS
Conclusion
Brief Overview of Raccoon Control in Brampton
Raccoons are a common sight in Brampton, a city located in the Greater Toronto Area of Ontario, Canada. These nocturnal creatures are known for their distinctive markings, which include a black mask around their eyes and bushy tails with black rings.
Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores and are known for their scavenging abilities. They have adapted well to living in urban areas like Brampton and can often be found rummaging through trash cans and compost bins in search of food.
Despite being considered nuisance animals by some residents, raccoons play an important role in Brampton's ecosystem by helping to control the population of insects and small rodents.
However, raccoons can also pose a health hazard to humans as they are carriers of diseases such as rabies and can spread them through bites or scratches. It is important for residents to take precautions when encountering raccoons and to avoid feeding them.
In Brampton, there are laws and bylaws in place to regulate the feeding and handling of wild animals like raccoons. Residents can also contact Brampton animal control if they encounter a raccoon that appears sick or injured.
Overall, raccoons are a unique and fascinating part of Brampton's wildlife, but it is important for residents to be aware of the potential risks associated with them and to take appropriate precautions.
How to Tell If You Have A Raccoon Problem?
There are several signs that may indicate nuisance animals like raccoons in or around your property. These include:
Damage to Property: Raccoons are known to cause damage to homes, yards, and gardens. They may tear holes in roofs, siding, or insulation, as well as damage gardens, lawns, and plants while searching for food.
Noises: Raccoons are nocturnal animals and may make noises such as scratching or thumping sounds at night. You may hear them moving around in your attic, crawlspace, or chimney.
Foul Odor: Raccoons have a distinctive musky odour, and their urine and feces can cause a foul smell. If you detect a strong, unpleasant odour, it may time to contact a wildlife control company.
Tracks: Raccoons leave distinctive tracks with five toes on their front and hind feet. You may find these tracks in mud, snow, or soft soil near your property. These tracks can help wildlife removal technicians find the entry hole to the nesting area in some cases.
Presence of Droppings: Raccoon droppings are tubular in shape and may be found near areas where raccoons are active, such as near trash cans or in attics.
Pet Behaviour: If your pets are acting unusually agitated or nervous, it may be a sign that raccoons are nearby. Raccoons may attack or harm pets if they feel threatened.
If you suspect a raccoon problem on your property, it is important to take action to address the problem. Contacting a professional wildlife removal service can help you safely and effectively remove raccoons from your property.
What Damage to Property Can Raccoons Cause?
Raccoons can cause a variety of damage to properties requiring the assistance of trained wildlife removal companies. Some common types of damage caused by raccoons include:
Roof Damage: Raccoons may tear holes in roofs or eaves to gain access to attics or crawl spaces.
Insulation Damage: Once inside, raccoons may damage insulation by tearing it up or soiling it with their urine and feces.
Plumbing and Wiring Damage: Raccoons may chew through pipes and wires, causing leaks, electrical shorts, or fires.
Siding Damage: Raccoons may scratch or chew on wood, vinyl and aluminum siding, causing unsightly damage.
Chimney Damage: Raccoons may take shelter in chimneys, causing a foul odour from urine that can be used difficult to get rid of.
Garden Damage: Raccoons are opportunistic foragers and may damage gardens by digging up plants or eating fruits and vegetables.
Trash Damage: Raccoons are notorious for raiding trash cans, leaving garbage strewn across lawns and driveways.
It is important to address any raccoon damage to your property promptly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. Raccoons can carry diseases, including rabies, and their urine and feces can spread harmful bacteria and parasites. If you suspect that raccoons are causing damage to your property, consider contacting a professional wildlife removal service for humane removal from your property.
Should You Worry About Seeing Raccoons In the Backyard?
If you live in an area where raccoons are common, seeing them from time to time is not necessarily cause for concern. Raccoons are generally harmless to humans and play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling the population of small rodents and insects.
However, there are certain situations where raccoon sightings may be a cause for concern. For example, if you notice that raccoons are frequently appearing during the daytime, it may be a sign that they are sick or injured. Raccoons are nocturnal animals, so seeing them out during the day can be a sign that something is wrong.
Additionally, if you have pets or small children, you may want to take extra precautions when raccoons are present. Raccoons can be aggressive if they feel threatened, and they can carry diseases such as rabies that can be transmitted through bites or scratches.
If you are concerned about raccoons in your area, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of encounters or conflicts. These include securing trash cans and compost bins, removing potential food sources such as pet food or fallen fruit, and sealing any openings in your home or property that raccoons may use to gain access.
In general, if you see raccoons in your area, it is important to remain cautious and avoid approaching or feeding them. If you have concerns or questions about raccoons in your area, consider contacting a local wildlife removal Brampton agency or animal services for advice.
What Do Raccoons In The Attic Sound Like?
Attics in southern Ontario make an ideal warm nesting area for raccoons and other nuisance wildlife. Raccoons in particular can make a variety of sounds when they are in the roof, and the specific sounds they make can depend on their behaviour, baby season and activity level. Some common sounds that raccoons make in the attic include:
Scratching or thumping sounds: Raccoons are active at night, so you may hear scratching or thumping sounds coming from the attic as they move around. The sounds of raccoons in the attic have also been compared to someone moving furniture or breaking into your home.
Chattering or growling sounds: Raccoons may make vocal sounds like chattering or growling sounds as a warning when they feel threatened or are cornered.
Crying or whining sounds: Baby raccoons may make crying or whining sounds when they are separated from their mother or siblings.
Vocalizations: Raccoons can make a range of vocalizations, from chirps and whistles to hisses and snarls.
If you hear any of these sounds coming from your attic, it may be a sign that raccoons are present. However, it is important to note that some sounds in the attic can also be caused by other animals or even by the settling of the house itself. If you suspect that raccoons are in your attic, it is best to contact a professional raccoon removal Brampton service to safely and humanely remove them from your property.
What Does Raccoon Poop Look Like?
Raccoon poop, also known as scat, can be identified by their size, shape, and contents. Here are some characteristics to look for when trying to identify raccoon waste:
Size: Typically about 2-3 inches long and 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter.
Shape: Usually tubular in shape, with blunt ends and a slight curve.
Colour: Fresh raccoon poop is dark in colour, ranging from black to dark brown. As is ages, it may become lighter in colour.
Contents: Often contain food remnants such as seeds, nuts, or fruit. They may also contain fur or bone fragments if the raccoon has been feeding on small animals.
Location: Often found in areas where raccoons are active, such as near trees, on roofs, or in attics.
It is important to avoid handling raccoon excrement as they may contain harmful bacteria and parasites. If you suspect that raccoons are present on your property, it is best to contact a professional raccoon removal Brampton service to safely and humanely remove them and clean up any droppings or other debris they may have left behind.
What Behaviours Are Raccoons Best Known For?
There are several interesting points to understand about raccoon behaviour. Here are a few:
Adaptability: Raccoons are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, from forests and wetlands to suburban and urban areas.
Nocturnal: Raccoons are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they will typically rest in dens or other sheltered areas.
Social behaviour: Raccoons are social animals and will often den together in groups, particularly during the colder months. They also have a hierarchical social structure, with dominant individuals often taking precedence over others.
Intelligence: Raccoons are considered to be highly intelligent and are capable of problem-solving and even using simple tools.
Omnivorous: Raccoons are omnivorous and will eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, insects, small animals, and even human food and garbage.
Dexterity: Raccoons have extremely dexterous front paws and can manipulate objects with surprising skill since they have opposable thumbs.
Curiosity: Raccoons are naturally curious animals and will often investigate new objects or surroundings.
Hibernation: While raccoons do not hibernate in the traditional sense, they may become less active during the winter months and may spend extended periods of time in their dens.
Climbing ability: Raccoons are excellent climbers and can easily scale trees, fences, and other structures.
Understanding raccoon behaviour can be helpful in preventing conflicts with these animals and ensuring that they are able to coexist with humans in a safe and healthy manner.
How Long Do Raccoons Live?
The life cycle of raccoons can be divided into several stages, which include:
Birth: Raccoons are born in litters, typically consisting of 2-5 young, in the early spring. The babies are blind and helpless at birth and rely on their mothers for warmth and nourishment.
Nursing: For the first 6-8 weeks of their lives, raccoon babies are completely dependent on their mother's milk for nutrition.
Weaning: After 6-8 weeks, the babies will begin to eat solid food and gradually become less reliant on their mother's milk.
Juvenile stage: At around 4-5 months of age, raccoon babies will begin to venture out of the den with their mother and learn important survival skills, such as foraging and climbing.
Maturity: Raccoons typically reach sexual maturity at around 1 year of age. Females will often give birth to their own litters the following spring.
Adult stage: Raccoons can live up to 3-4 years in the wild, although some individuals have been known to live longer in captivity. Throughout their life cycle, raccoons are highly adaptable and able to thrive in a variety of environments. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat a wide variety of foods, which allows them to survive in both natural and human-altered landscapes.
How To Get Rid Of Raccoons
There are simple prevention and control measures to deter raccoons, including:
Secure garbage bins: Raccoons are attracted to garbage, so secure your trash can and compose bin with tight-fitting lids or bungee cords to raccoon-proof this easy food source
Eliminate food sources: Remove any potential food sources from your property, such as fallen fruit, pet food and bird feeders. Fence off your vegetable garden and compost piles if possible.
Close off potential entry points: Raccoons and other critters can enter homes through small access points on the roof attics, basements, and roofs, so close off any potential entry points with heavy-duty wire mesh or metal flashing.
What Smells Do Raccoons Hate?
Hot pepper powder: Raccoons do not like the taste or smell of hot peppers, so sprinkling cayenne pepper or chilli powder around your yard or garden can work as temporary raccoon repellents.
Vinegar: Vinegar has a strong odour that can be unpleasant to raccoons. Mixing equal parts vinegar and water and spraying it around your property may help to keep raccoons away.
Predator urine: The scent of predator urine, such as coyote or fox urine, can be effective in deterring raccoons. You can purchase predator urine online or at some outdoor stores.
Motion-activated sprinklers: Installing motion-activated sprinklers in your yard or garden can startle and deter raccoons, as well as other unwanted wildlife.
Bright lights: Raccoons are nocturnal animals and prefer to move around in darkness. Installing bright lights in your yard or garden can make it less appealing to raccoons.
Planting Marigolds: While some people believe that planting marigolds can help to deter raccoons, there is limited evidence to support this claim. Marigolds are often promoted as a natural deterrent for a variety of garden pests, including raccoons, but there is no scientific research to confirm their effectiveness.
It is possible that the strong scent of marigolds may be unpleasant to raccoons, but there is no guarantee that this will be enough to keep them away. It is important to take a multifaceted approach to raccoon control, including steps such as securing garbage cans and compost bins, and using motion-activated sprinklers, and other natural deterrents, to help reduce the likelihood of raccoons entering your yard or garden.
It is important to note that while these natural deterrents may be effective in deterring raccoons, they are not foolproof and may not work in all situations. In addition, it is important to take steps to prevent raccoons from accessing food sources, such as securing garbage cans and compost bins, to discourage their presence in the first place.
Does Trapping To Removing Raccoons Work In The Long Run?
Trapping and removal of raccoons in a humane manner can be necessary in certain situations where the animals are causing damage to property or posing a threat to human health and safety. However, it is important to understand the pros and cons of trapping and removal before deciding whether to pursue this option.
Pros:
It can be an effective way to remove raccoons from an area where they are causing problems.
It allows for the relocation of the raccoons to a more suitable habitat, rather than resorting to more drastic measures such as extermination.
Trapping and removal can be carried out by professional wildlife removal services, ensuring that the animals are treated humanely and in accordance with local laws and regulations.
Cons:
Trapping and removing a wildlife problem can be expensive, especially if carried out by a professional wildlife removal Brampton service as the charge for each visit, so if stray cats or grey squirrels get caught by mistake you usually have to pay more for the company to go back and forth resetting traps.
Raccoons may return to the area if the conditions that attracted them in the first place are not addressed (such as easy access to food sources).
There is a risk of injury to both the raccoon and humans during the trapping and removal process.
Relocation can be stressful for the wild animals and may impact their survival in the new habitat.
It is important to note that in many areas, trapping and removal of raccoons may only be carried out by licensed wildlife control professionals and that there may be legal and ethical considerations to take into account, especially during the baby season.
In some cases, other methods such as exclusion or habitat modification may be more effective and humane methods for nuisance wildlife problems. It is always recommended to consult with local wildlife removal Brampton experts or animal control authorities to determine the best course of action.
What Are The Benefits of Hiring Professional Wildlife Control Services?
There are several benefits of hiring a professional Brampton wildlife control service for raccoon removal. Some of these benefits include:
Expertise and Experience: Professional raccoon control services have the knowledge and experience needed to effectively handle raccoon infestations. They know the behaviour and habits of raccoons and can use this information to determine the best course of action for removal and prevention.
Safety: Raccoons can be dangerous animals, and attempting to remove them on your own can be risky. Professional raccoon removal services have the necessary equipment and training to safely handle raccoons and minimize the risk of injury or property damage.
Humane Treatment: Professional wildlife removal Brampton services use humane methods to remove and relocate raccoons, ensuring that the animals are not harmed in the process.
Thoroughness: Raccoon removal for big infestations can be difficult to fully eradicate, and attempting to do so on your own may not be effective. Professional raccoon removal services will conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify all potential entry points and ensure that the infestation is fully addressed.
Cost-Effective: While it may seem like hiring a raccoon removal Bramptonservice is an added expense, attempting to handle a raccoon infestation on your own can actually end up costing more in the long run if the infestation is not fully addressed or if additional damage is done to your property.
Overall, hiring a professional animal control service to remove wildlife for you can provide peace of mind and ensure that the wildlife problem is effectively and safely addressed.
Best Practices For Choosing the Right Wildlife Control Service?
When looking to hire animal removal services, it's important to keep the following tips in mind:
Look for experience and expertise: Choose a raccoon removal Brampton company that has experience dealing with raccoon removal and has the necessary knowledge and expertise to effectively handle the situation.
Check for licensing and insurance: Make sure the wildlife control company is licensed to operate in your area and has liability insurance to protect you in case of any damage or injury during the raccoon removal process.
Ask for references: Ask the raccoon removal Brampton company for references from past clients and follow up with them to get an idea of their experience with the company and the quality of their service.
Evaluate their methods and areas of expertise: Find out what methods the company uses for raccoon removal and other wildlife problems. Make sure they are humane and in compliance with local regulations. Ask if they also remove other urban wildlife in case the noise in your attic is not raccoons.
Compare pricing: Get quotes from several companies in the wildlife removal industry and compare their wildlife prevention pricing and basic service cost to ensure you are getting a fair deal. Some Brampton wildlife control services may advertise affordable wildlife removal services and have an average base price but charge inflated prices to do additional work. These are usually the companies that refuse to give average pricing for extras on the phone.
Read reviews: Check online reviews and ratings of the raccoon removal Brampton company to see what other customers have said about their experience with the company.
Consider availability and responsiveness: Choose a company that is available to respond in a reasonable time frame and has good communication throughout the removal process. Avoid the inexperienced wildlife control company with no reviews, unclear pricing and can arrive unusually fast. Trading high quality workmanship and reasonable pricing for same day service at an inflated rate ay not be worth it in the long run.
What to Do If You Encounter a Raccoon?
If you encounter a raccoon, it's important to stay calm and take the following steps to ensure your safety:
Keep your distance: Raccoons can be unpredictable and may become aggressive if they feel threatened. Stay at least 10 feet away from the raccoon and do not attempt to touch or approach it.
Do not corner the raccoon: If the raccoon is in an enclosed space, do not corner it or attempt to trap it. This may cause the raccoon to become agitated and aggressive.
Secure your pets: If you have pets, bring them indoors or keep them on a leash to prevent them from getting too close to the raccoon.
Make noise: If the raccoon does not move away, make noise to try to scare it off. Clap your hands, stomp your feet, or yell to make loud noises.
Do not feed the raccoon: Feeding raccoons can cause them to become accustomed to human contact and may lead to more frequent encounters or even aggression. Other nuisance pests like red squirrels and roof rats will nest close to a steady food source so don't feed any wildlife close to your property to avoid attracting unwanted animals.
Call professional wildlife removal Brampton services: If the raccoon is injured, sick, or causing damage to your property, contact a professional animal control service that handles wildlife problems every day. They can prevent raccoons and other nuisance wildlife from returning to the attic space.
Remember, raccoons are wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of harm to yourself and the raccoon.
Who to Call For Dead or Injured Raccoon Removal on Public and Private Property?
If you come across a dead or injured raccoon on public property, you should contact your local animal control agency or municipal services department. They will be able to safely remove the animal and dispose of it appropriately.
On private property, you may want to contact a licensed wildlife control service or pest control company. They can safely and humanely remove the raccoon and address any damage or other concerns caused by the animal.
It's important to never attempt to handle a live or dead raccoon on your own, as they can carry diseases and may become aggressive if they feel threatened.
What's The Importance of Raccoon Control In Urban Settings?
Raccoon control is important in urban settings for several reasons. Firstly, raccoons can cause damage to property, such as tearing up roofs, walls, and garbage cans, in search of food or shelter. This can result in costly repairs for homeowners and businesses.
Secondly, raccoons can pose a threat to human health and safety. They are known carriers of diseases such as rabies and can also transmit other diseases through their feces. Additionally, raccoons can be aggressive and may attack humans or pets if they feel threatened or cornered.
Thirdly, raccoons can disrupt the local ecosystem by preying on native species and competing for resources. They can also spread invasive plant species by consuming and spreading their seeds.
Overall, controlling raccoon populations in urban areas is necessary to protect property, prevent the spread of disease, ensure public safety, and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
FAQs
Is it legal to kill raccoons in Brampton?
In Brampton, Ontario, Canada, it is not legal to kill raccoons without a permit. Raccoons are considered a protected species under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, and killing them without proper authorization can result in fines and other legal consequences. It is recommended that if you are experiencing issues with raccoons, you contact a wildlife removal company or the appropriate government agency to seek assistance in dealing with the problem in a humane and legal manner.
Can raccoons climb fences?
Yes, raccoons are excellent climbers and are capable of scaling most types of fences. They have sharp claws and are highly skilled at using their paws to grip and climb objects. Raccoons can also jump a distance of up to 3 feet, so even tall fences may not always be effective at keeping them out. If you have a raccoon problem and are looking to keep them out of your property, it's important to make sure any potential entry points, such as holes or gaps in fences, are sealed off or blocked
How do I know if a raccoon has rabies?
There are several signs that may indicate that a raccoon has rabies, including:
Unusual behaviour: Rabid raccoons may exhibit strange or erratic behaviour, such as wandering aimlessly during the daytime or approaching humans or pets without fear.
Disorientation: Rabies can cause raccoons to become disoriented and uncoordinated, leading to stumbling, falling, or walking in circles.
Aggression: Rabid raccoons may exhibit unusual aggression towards humans or other animals, often without provocation.
Foaming at the mouth: As the disease progresses, rabid raccoons may experience excessive salivation and foam at the mouth.
Muscle paralysis: In the later stages of the disease, raccoons may experience muscle paralysis, which can cause them to appear weak or unable to move.
If you suspect that a raccoon has rabies, it's important to keep your distance and call a wildlife removal Brampton service or your local animal control or public health department. Do not attempt to handle the animal yourself, as rabies can be transmitted through bites or scratches.
What diseases can raccoons carry?
Raccoons can carry several diseases that can be transmitted to humans and other animals. Some of the most common diseases associated with raccoons include:
Rabies: Raccoons are one of the primary carriers of rabies in North America. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is typically transmitted through bites or scratches.
Roundworm: Raccoons can harbor a type of roundworm called Baylisascaris procyonis in their intestines. The eggs of this parasite can be passed in raccoon feces and can cause serious illness in humans if ingested.
Leptospirosis: Raccoons can also carry the bacteria that causes leptospirosis, a potentially serious disease that can affect both humans and animals.
Salmonella: Raccoons can carry Salmonella bacteria, which can cause food poisoning and other gastrointestinal illnesses in humans.
Raccoonpox: Raccoonpox is a viral disease that can affect both raccoons and humans. It typically causes skin lesions and can be transmitted through contact with infected animals or their secretions.
It's important to take precautions when dealing with raccoons or their feces, such as wearing gloves and washing hands thoroughly after handling. If you suspect that you or your pet may have come into contact with a raccoon or its feces, it's recommended that you seek medical attention or veterinary care immediately.
Conclusion
In conclusion, raccoons are adorable, but they can cause significant damage to your property and pose health risks to you and your family. Brampton homeowners should to take the necessary steps to control nuisance raccoons using only humane removal methods. By implementing the prevention and control measures outlined in this guide, you can safeguard your home and backyard from raccoons. If you encounter a raccoon, always prioritize safety and hire animal removal services if necessary.