Raccoons Be Gone! A Complete Guide to Raccoon Removal

Raccoons, those masked bandits of the night, can cause quite a headache for homeowners, especially in Indiana where the Common raccoon (Procyon lotor) is thriving. With their nimble hands and innate curiosity, these creatures can turn your peaceful abode into their own personal playground. From nesting in your attic to ravaging your garbage cans, raccoon infestations are a nuisance, and raccoon-related damage can be a costly affair.

However, worry not, in this comprehensive guide, we will introduce you to their habits, their preferred nesting spots, and the damage they can cause. We will also equip you with effective raccoon control strategies, ranging from homemade deterrents to professional raccoon removal services. Stay tuned as we embark on this journey to get rid of raccoons from your property.

Call 317-535-4605 to Reach Our Licensed Raccoon Removal Company in Indianapolis
Call 317-535-4605 to Reach Our Licensed Raccoon Removal Company in Indianapolis

The Common Raccoon (Procyon Lotor)

The Common raccoon, known for its black mask and ringed tail, is native to North America. These intelligent creatures are highly adaptable and have thrived in urban settings, including the state of Indiana. They are found all over the state, from the bustling cities to suburban areas and even rural parts. As omnivores, their diet consists of both plants and animals, making them versatile foragers. However, their natural curiosity often leads them to human settlements in search of food and shelter.

Preferred Nesting Spots

Raccoons are opportunistic nesters and can make themselves at home just about anywhere. Some common nesting spots include:

Attics: Raccoons prefer warm and dark areas, which makes your attic an ideal spot for nesting. They can enter through small openings or damaged areas on the roof.

Chimneys: Tall chimneys make for a cozy nesting spot for raccoons, especially during colder months.

Garbage Cans and Dumpsters: Raccoons are notorious for rummaging through garbage cans and dumpsters in search of food.

Under Decks and Sheds: These structures provide shelter and protection for raccoons, making them appealing nesting spots.

It’s important to regularly inspect these areas and seal off any potential entry points to prevent a raccoon infestation.

Damage Caused by Raccoon Infestations

Raccoons can cause a variety of damage when they make their way into your property. Some common types of damage caused by raccoon infestations include:

Structural Damage: Raccoons can tear through insulation, wiring, and other materials in your attic or walls, causing costly structural damage.

Contamination: Their feces and urine can contaminate the area they nest in, posing health hazards to you and your family.

Noise Disturbance: Raccoons are most active at night, and their movements can be loud and disruptive.

Garden Damage: Raccoons are omnivores and will eat fruits and vegetables from your garden.

Effective Raccoon Control Tips

Now that you know more about raccoons let’s discuss some effective raccoon control tips to keep them at bay:

Keep garbage cans securely covered. Use bungee cords or tight-fitting lids to prevent raccoons from accessing your garbage cans.

Use deterrents. Raccoons are sensitive to strong smells, so using items such as ammonia-soaked rags, predator urine, or cayenne pepper can deter them from entering your property.

Install motion-activated lights and sprinklers. These can startle and scare off raccoons when they enter your property.

Seek professional help. If the infestation is severe, it’s best to seek professional raccoon removal and control services. These professionals have the knowledge and equipment to safely remove raccoons from your property.

Conclusion

Raccoons may seem cute and cuddly, but their presence on your property can cause significant damage and inconvenience. By understanding their habits and implementing effective raccoon control tips, you can prevent infestations and protect your property. Remember, ‘Raccoons Be Gone!’ is possible with proper knowledge and proactive measures!  So, stay vigilant, stay informed, and bid adieu to those pesky masked bandits!

If you have questions about raccoon control and removal, contact one of our Indianapolis wildlife control professionals for assistance. We provide effective raccoon removal and control services for residential and commercial properties throughout central Indiana. With the right approach, you can keep raccoons away from your home for good!

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General Process of Raccoon Infestation Clean-Up and Repair

General Process of Raccoon Infestation Clean-Up and Repair

Raccoons are capable of causing and creating quite a mess. They are known to intrude on residential and commercial spaces to take shelter from harsh weather, seasonal changes, and breeding.  Spaces such as attics, roof tops, crawl spaces, garages, sheds and more can be desirable living areas for wild raccoons. Wintertime and breeding season are prime times for raccoon infestation and problems. This is why animal-proofing a property is highly suggested; especially if this property is located near heavily forested or wooded areas, or busy cities and municipalities.

If or when you experience a raccoon infestation, you will want to know how to clean up the mess after they are removed and extracted.  With a mess so potentially large, it is often times overwhelming to decide where to begin.  The best place to start is calling a professional raccoon removal and control company.  They will have all the necessary information, recommendations, tools, equipment, technologies, and training to guide you in an affordable and effective raccoon cleanup process. 

Continue reading to learn more about the typical raccoon clean-up and restoration process, as well as advice to prevent such infestations from occurring altogether.

Raccoon Infestation Cleanup Indianapolis Indiana 317-535-4605
Raccoon Infestation Cleanup Indianapolis Indiana 317-535-4605

The Basics Surrounding Raccoon Damage Repair and Cleanup

When raccoons make an area their home, they start destroying everything in sight. They chew through electrical wiring, saturate sheet rock and floor boarding with urine and droppings, and tear and burrow through insulation and dry wall.  They are extraordinary at making messes to make themselves more comfortable inside your domains. These messes are extensive and require an acute attention to safety and detail in order to clean it all up. So, who can handle such a job?

Call a professional Indianapolis raccoon control company in your local area!  They retain the proper tools, training, technology, and equipment to facilitate any and all raccoon cleanup and restoration projects.  Reputable raccoon removal and control companies also offer minor construction and restoration services as well.  Be sure to do your research before choosing a company to hire.

Here are the main techniques these companies use to clean up after wild raccoons:

▷ Remove and Extract all Raccoons
▷ Inspect and Assess Damages
▷ Vacuum All Droppings, Nesting Material, and Other Debris
▷ Dispose of Materials Following National EPA Standards
▷ Sanitize Entire Area to Remove Possible Germs and Parasites
▷ Odor Treatment and Elimination
▷ Remove Soiled and Torn Insulation
▷ Replace Insulation
▷ Repair Damaged Floor Boarding and/or Dry Wall

If you have raccoons in the attic or other area of your property, it is vital to act fast. Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon control services you can trust.

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Devices You Can Buy to Keep Raccoons Off of Your Property

Raccoons are arguably one of the most destructive nuisance critters in all of Indiana. The amount of damage raccoons can cause can be devastating to a property, structurally and financially. Raccoons They can dig up lawns, loot gardens, pillage garbage cans, steal pet food, contaminate livestock feed, rip off window screens, tear off siding and roof shingles, and soil everything in sight with their droppings. They are also common carriers of several infectious diseases, such as Rabies. Needless to say, if you have a colony of coons visiting your property night after night, plundering your goods, or posing health and safety threats, you should implement some critter control methods.

Continue reading to learn some items that can help you safely keep raccoons and other critters off of your lawn and away from your property in Indiana.

Get Rid of Raccoons Indianapolis IN 317-535-4605
Get Rid of Raccoons Indianapolis IN 317-535-4605

Raccoon Removal and Control Solutions

Raccoons are clever and retain certain qualities that give them an advantage in our neighborhoods. They have excellent memories and dexterous paws, which means they can open, climb, and pry their way trouble. And since they have good memories, they will remember which places are good sources for food, water, and shelter, and continue to revisit these places until they are stopped.

It is in your best interest to get rid of raccoons as soon as you are aware of a raccoon problem. A proven method for protecting yourself and your property from wildlife damage is preventative maintenance. The next best method is to contact a professional wildlife removal company in the case that your raccoon issue is serious.

Animal-Proofing for Nuisance Raccoons

There are several ways you can take precautionary measures against raccoon damages and infestations. You can use simple household ingredients to make safe repellents, electronic devices to scare raccoons off at night, and so much more.

Here are some helpful products to consider when making a plan to protect your home and property against nuisance wildlife:

Repellents – If you want to make a safe, non-toxic raccoon repellent to ward off nuisance wild animals, simply mix together a homemade solution from spices and extracts. Cinnamon, mint, menthol, peppermint, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and anything other type of dried pepper will do the trick. Just mix with water, transfer to a spray bottle, and spray the perimeter of your property. Be sure to keep pets away from conditioned areas.

Fencing – If you have a garden, or raccoons are getting underneath your porch or shed, you may want to consider purchasing some wire mesh or fencing to keep them out. You can find all sorts of fencing at any local home improvement store. They come in a variety of grades, sizes, and more.

Electronic Devices – Install motion-sensing lighting or sound machines outside to scare off raccoons. You can also keep a radio playing since they are scared of humans.

Galvanized Mesh Screening – Mesh screening can be installed over chimneys, attic vents, soffits, windows, and open gaps to prevent raccoon intrusion.

Trashcan Lid Locks – If you simply cannot wait to take your trash out until collection day, invest in some trashcan lid locks to stop raccoons from rummaging through your garbage.

Do you suspect that raccoons are inside your attic or occupying some other area of your property? Perhaps your raccoon control methods weren’t as effective as you hoped? Just contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

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Indiana Raccoon Removal and Contro
Indiana Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Common Traits of a Rabid Raccoon

Do you see raccoons on or around your property regularly? Have you been concerned about the potential risk for contracting Rabies through a raccoon bite or scratch? Continue reading to learn what a an actively rabid raccoon looks like, as well as some pertinent facts about raccoons and the Rabies Virus.

Raccoon Removal Indianapolis Indiana 317-535-4605
Raccoon Removal Indianapolis Indiana 317-535-4605

Raccoons are a Rabies Vector Species (RVS)

Raccoons are stunning in appearance and have been known to make fun lovable pets; but there is another side to raccoons we must all be aware of. Unfortunately, raccoons are classified as a Rabies Vector Species (RVS) in most states, which means they are a species of wildlife capable of carrying and transmitting the Rabies Virus to humans and other animals. Although all mammals can become infected with rabies, raccoons are more at risk because their bodies can act as reservoirs for the virus.

If a human or animal is bitten by a raccoon, whether it’s rabid or not, they must call animal control and immediately seek medical attention. Always behave as if a wild animal is carrying a disease if ever attacked or bitten. If a person or another pet is bitten by a dog that has not had a rabies vaccination, always behave as if the dog is carrying the virus and seek immediate medical care, just in case.

How to Tell if a Raccoon is Rabid

Even though you should always take action as if a wild animal is rabid, it is good knowledge to know what one looks like. A healthy raccoon should be out at night, or dusk. Also, they should appear healthy, walk straight, and seem as though they have an agenda. A healthy raccoon should exhibit all characteristics that a mammal in good condition would. Now, as for a rabid raccoon, the signs are not so pretty.

Here are the signs that a raccoon is infected with the rabies virus:

The raccoon cannot walk straight or has trouble walking. They might even appear to be intoxicated or confused and might also be walking in circles.

The raccoon appears confused, disoriented, or reacting slow. The raccoon is making strange sounds and noises. A little chit chatter with other coons is normal, but strange noises while out and about is not.

The raccoon is foaming at the mouth or has an abnormal amount of saliva. The raccoon may look like its drooling excessively. But no one should ever be close enough to a raccoon to see the foam in their mouths!

The raccoon looks ill, weak, or dying. The raccoon is out during the daytime hours. Although a healthy raccoon can do this from time to time, if a raccoon is demonstrating any of the above signs in addition to being out during the day, it may be rabid.

Are you dealing with repeat raccoon intrusions and property tampering in Indy? Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon control services you can trust.

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Indiana Raccoon Removal and Contro
Indiana Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Top Solutions for a Raccoon Infestation in Indianapolis

Raccoons are intelligent creatures, and can learn to adapt to changing environments quickly.  This means that when new construction comes into their territory, and their homes are transformed into residential and commercial neighborhoods, they learn to live around it, or sometimes even INSIDE IT! If you have recently discovered raccoons in the attic or some other occupied area of your premises, it is important that you act fast.

Continue below to learn the top solutions for a raccoon infestation problem in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Attic Cleanup 317-535-4605
Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Attic Cleanup 317-535-4605

Nuisance Raccoons are Destructive and Dangerous

Raccoons are known to trespass into residential homes and buildings through attics, roofs, chimneys, and crawl spaces.  Pet doors are a very popular amenity for raccoons as well.  Outdoor raccoons have also learned to use the underground sewer systems and drainpipes as a roadway to travel from one place to another. 

These mammals are considered a nuisance to most people, especially the ones who have sacrificed gardens, roof shingles, soiled attic insulation, and other areas that were damaged by raccoon invasion.  These damages can be costly to repair and require extensive amounts of time to fix. Raccoons can also tamper with your pets’ food, outdoor sheds, garages, and anything else they can get access to.  

How to Get Rid of Raccoons 

There are many solutions to getting rid of raccoons in residential and commercial properties. Some choices are more expensive than others, and some are more labor intensive than others. The best solution to use is the one that suits your needs and situation the easiest. For example, one way to keep raccoons off your property is to be sure there is nothing attracting them to come over. Do not leave pet food outdoors, be sure to lock up pet doors at night, and secure your sheds and outdoor storage units. 

Professional Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control

If you have an indoor raccoon problem, such as raccoons in the attic, chimney, roof, or crawl space, then contacting a professional Indianapolis raccoon control company is the safest and most reliable way to solve the problem. They retain all the latest technologies and proper equipment to remove raccoons, as well as prevent them from re-gaining access. A professional animal removal service is licensed and experienced in raccoon control and can handle the situation safely. Raccoon removal is not a DIY job; however, there are things a homeowner can do to prevent attracting raccoons onto their properties, as mentioned above. 

Are you ready to firmly solve your raccoon problems at an affordable price? Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services at the most economical rates in town.

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How to Respond to a Wild Raccoon Attack
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Why Raccoons are a Threat to Your Home and Loved Ones

Indiana Raccoon Removal and Contro
Indiana Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Can I Get Ebola From a Raccoon?

Ebola is a dangerous and scary virus. So, when another news story of an outbreak or occurrence airs, it is natural for the community to be fearful. Many people assume that Ebola is carried and transmitted by dirt, pest-like animals, such as raccoons and bats. Namely with raccoons, there is a lot of misconceptions about the illnesses they commonly carry and transmit, and how. If you are spotting raccoons in your neighborhood, do not fear. Just contact a local animal removal service for assistance.

In the meantime, continue reading to learn the truth about wild raccoons and the Ebola virus, including facts you need to know and methods of raccoon control you can use.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control
Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Learn About Raccoons and Rabies

The rumors of raccoons and the Ebola viruses being connected in some way mostly have to do with the comparisons made between Rabies and Ebola. Rabies is a common, life-threatening disease that is publicly linked to raccoons because raccoons, and bats, are species of mammals that most often carry the virus, or become infected with it. The reason why Rabies and Ebola have been discussed together is that they share a lot of similar qualities. Both viruses are nearly lethal for humans, and most certainly lethal for other animals, like dogs and cats.

Since they are equally dangerous, they are equally feared as well, giving them something else in common. Also, it is difficult to become infected by these viruses. Not only is the likelihood small, but the chances of coming in contact with such virus is rare. Unlike colds and flu viruses that can be spread through respiratory transmissions, a person, or animal, must have direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected subject. It cannot be contracted through a simple cough or sneeze. One major difference, on the other hand, is that Ebola has the capacity to evolve and change, whereas Rabies does not.

How to Manage Raccoons Around Your Area

A person should not be scared to contract the Ebola virus from a raccoon, considering there have been no reports of such events taking place. But people should always beware of raccoons because they commonly carry contagious and infectious diseases that can kill or injure a living being including pets. If you spot a raccoon on your property, contact an Indianapolis raccoon removal company for immediate service. It is strongly suggested for homes near wooded areas, or city areas, to raccoon-proof your property to avoid a raccoon problem in the future.

Are you seeing too many raccoons around your house each night? Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust.

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Indiana Raccoon Removal and Contro
Indiana Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Top 3 Products for Humane Raccoon Abatement

If you are having problems with nuisance raccoons on your property, but hesitant to take action in fear of harming the animals or surrounding environment, this may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Continue reading to learn the top three products you can buy and use for safe, humane, and 100% non-lethal raccoon abatement.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605
Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Live Trap Cages

In the professional raccoon removal and control industry, the best practice is to always use safe and humane, non-lethal methods. Furthermore, it is important to always adhere to all local, state, and federal regulations that govern wildlife abatement. Live trap cages are one of the most common pieces of equipment approved by set laws, and utilized by professional companies when raccoon extraction and relocation is necessary. These traps come in all different shapes and sizes, and work by allowing a raccoon to enter, but not exit. Absolutely no harm is caused to the raccoon, and the cage itself protects the user from any raccoon contact.

Granular Animal Repellents

It is highly inhumane to use toxic chemicals or solutions to rid a property of raccoons. Not only is it harmful to the raccoons themselves, it is also dangerous to non-target animals and the surrounding environment. For these reasons, several manufacturers in the animal abatement industry have developed organic repellents as a humane and non-toxic alternative. Common ingredients include tastes and sensations that raccoons hate, such as black pepper, menthol, and capsaicin. These repellents come in granular form, and can be easily dispersed around the perimeter of a property. Common ingredients include tastes and sensations that raccoons hate, such as black pepper, menthol, and capsaicin.

Spray Animal Repellents

An addition to granular repellents, you also have the option of purchasing spray repellents. Scientifically developed and concocted based on the same principles of granular formulas, spray animal repellents work by thwarting raccoon activity in concentrated areas. You can also choose to make your own spray repellent by combining olive oil, water, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper together, and then applying it to the perimeter of your property. Just be sure to keep pets away from treated areas since the pepper can irritate their eyes and nose.

Trusted Indianapolis Raccoon Control

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon removal and control you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured nuisance wildlife removal contractors who offer a wide range of 24 hour raccoon removal and control services, including raccoon cleanup, raccoon proofing, minor restorations for raccoon damages, and more. Call 317-535-4605 to request a free estimate or emergency service, today.

Types of Raccoon Species Found Around the Globe

There are various types of raccoons in the world. Each species is similar to each other, but different in their special ways. The wild raccoon varies from region to region. Their surrounding environment, climate, and diet influence their unique and identifying qualities. Continue reading to learn about the interesting types of raccoon species found all around the world.

Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605
North American Raccoon – Procyon Lotor

North America

The most common North American raccoon is called the Procyon Lotor. These colonies are found throughout Canada and the United States. Their appearance is what most people would consider the typical raccoon stereotype. They have a black mask-like stripe across their eyes and a striped bushy tail.  Their coat can vary in color, from tones of gray to dark browns. 

Adults weight an average of 25 to 30 pounds, and grow to a height of 30 to 36 inches.  They have black beady eyes, long claws, and dexterous paws. They are excellent climbers that partake in a diet of fruits, berries, small invertebrates, and insects. This species is nocturnal, meaning they sleep during the day and stay active at night. For shelter, raccoons use hollow trees, dens, attics, and any other small available spaces they can find. This is why they can be considered a nuisance in residential and commercial neighborhoods.

Central and South America

There is a raccoon known in the central and south Americas called the Crab Eating Raccoon, or scientifically, Procyon Cancrivorus. It lives in marshes and jungles all throughout the region. They are recognized by their salt and pepper looking coats, speckled with hues of brown and gray . They usually eat aquatic insects, crabs, crayfish, and small fish; hence the name Crab Eating Raccoon.

Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605
Crab-Eating Raccoon – Procyon Cancrivorus

Another interesting species of raccoon is the Guadeloupe Raccoon.  These raccoon colonies are found in small numbers throughout the island of Guadeloupe in the Lesser Antilles.  They are smaller than the average raccoon, with dark grey fur.  They are an endangered species, and only found on this island.  They live in the rain forests and often hunted by humans as food.  Their diet consists of frogs, acorns, berries, crayfish, and other small invertebrates.

Raccoons are fascinating and intelligent animals to admire; however, if they are invading your property or home, it may be time to call a raccoon removal specialist.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured nuisance wildlife removal contractors who offer a wide range of 24 hour raccoon removal and control services, including raccoon cleanup, raccoon proofing, minor restorations for raccoon damages, and more. Call 317-535-4605 to request a free estimate or emergency service, today.

A Recent Citation Reminds Us Not to Make Raccoons Our Pets

Last month, a woman in Indiana was cited by police 29 times for owning 29 baby raccoons. Why did she get these citations? Continue reading to find out, including the lesson we can all take from this incident.

Indiana Raccoon Removal Services
Indianapolis Raccoon Removal 317-535-4605

Pet Raccoons are Illegal Without a Permit

Without the proper permits and licensing, owning a raccoon is illegal under state law. The Hoosier woman who was cited 29 times for owning 29 baby raccoons did not have any of the proper permits required by law for legal exotic pet domestication. Not only must individuals acquire a legal permit for exotic pet ownership, they must also stay on top of routine renewals, as such permits expire after a few years.

The woman in this case actually had an expired permit, as she was a retired wildlife rescue rehabilitation professional. But this incident shows us just how strict Indiana laws are on exotic and wild animal pet domestication. There are several reasons why these regulations are in place, but the top most important reasons are for animal protection and preservation, and for our own safety.

For this reason and more, wild animals, including raccoons, are not meant to be caged. Therefore, it is not advised to own one as a pet if proper care cannot be provided on a consistent basis.  Animal sanctuaries, such as zoos and rehabilitation centers, are the only settings that are appropriate for wild animal domestication. Sadly, in this case of 29 citations, 10 raccoons had to be euthanized due to health issues, while the other 19 were relocated to a safe, faraway habitat.

Because raccoons are a Class II wild animal here in Indiana, a Class II permit is required. Indiana defines Class II wild animals as, “(…)a wild animal that, because of its nature, habits, or status, may pose a threat to human safety.” To learn more about exotic pet ownership permits, see the Indiana Administrative Code. Title 312. Natural Resources Commission. Article 9. Fish and Wildlife. Rule 11. Wild Animal Possession Permits, here.

If You Find a Baby Raccoon

Although a baby raccoon looks cute and cuddly, they are still wild animals. You must resist the urge to touch or move the raccoon. Instead, contact a local Indianapolis raccoon removal company for prompt and professional relocation services that will not harm the raccoon in any way. While waiting for professional services, keep all people and pets away from the vicinity of the raccoon. It could be ill or carry a disease, so keep your distance as well.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured nuisance wildlife removal contractors who offer a wide range of raccoon removal and control services, including raccoon cleanup, raccoon proofing, minor restorations for raccoon damages, and more. Call 317-535-4605 to request a free estimate or emergency service, today.

Basic Facts Surrounding the Common Raccoon

Raccoons are clever critters, often studied for this in captive settings.  They are remarkably bright and resourceful in nature as well.  There are a lot of interesting facts about raccoons, but before indulging in these, it is good to have an understanding of what the raccoon species is all about.

Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605
Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Physical Description

Raccoons, scientifically Procyon Lotor, are medium-sized mammals with a gray coat of fur and a long striped tail.  They are often seen with a black stretch of fur directly over their eyes, giving them the look of wearing a bandit’s mask; hence the nickname, little bandits.  They usually weigh anywhere from 8 to 20 pounds, and stands at 1 to 2 feet, on its hind legs.  This is at full adult size. 

Raccoons are also known as “little bandits” due to their curiosity and cleverness in residential areas.  They can snoop and tear through garbage cans and dumpsters looking for food, in the middle of the night, and never get caught.  People in these communities wake up to a huge mess in their lawn or drive-way!  This is what most people think of when you mention the word, raccoon.

Reproduction

Female raccoons give birth to litters of baby raccoons called “kits”.  Their gestation period ranges from a few months, or 65 days.  They usually have anywhere from 2 to 5 kits per litter.  After about nine weeks, the kits can eat solid food and even leave the den to explore.  They are eventually weaned completely by 16 weeks or so.  The mother shows them feeding grounds and dens, and the adolescent raccoons then split up and head off on their own. 

Diet

For food, they will eat almost anything.  They are by far one of the most interesting omnivores known to man.  In certain times, they will munch on insects and worms, but will also eat fruits and nuts in other seasons.  They are even known to indulge in certain vertebrates like fish and frogs.  This diet is good for them, and must be, because raccoons have been known to also live a long time. 

Life Expectancy

In captive, raccoons can live past 20 years of age!  However, in nature, there are more dangers and threats that affect the life span of a raccoon.  In the wild, raccoons only live on average 1 to 3 years.  They are in constant threat of predators, destroyed habitats, loss of food sources, and more. 

Nuisance Raccoons

Raccoons are highly intelligent and ambitious mammals with dexterous paws. These traits makes it easy for raccoons to access our properties and generate a long list of possible damages. A big-time attraction for all raccoons is food, so trash cans are common targets. If you know raccoons are a problem in your neighborhood, it is wise to take certain preventative measures to keep raccoons away from trash cans, as well as, all other areas of your property.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons in Indianapolis

Call 317-535-4605 for 24 hour raccoon removal in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife rescue and control specialists that offer a wide range of safe, non-lethal raccoon removal services and attic restorations. Request a free estimate, today.