Tag Archives: wildlife control

Nocturnal Animals in Indiana: Protecting Your Property from Wildlife Damage

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When the sun sets over Indianapolis, a different world comes alive. While you sleep peacefully, various nocturnal animals begin their nightly routines—often with your property as their destination. Understanding these creatures and their behaviors is crucial for protecting your home from costly damage and maintaining a safe environment for your family.

Nocturnal animal damage isn’t just an inconvenience; it can lead to serious structural issues, health hazards, and expensive repairs. From raccoons tearing through your roof to bats soiling and contaminating your attic space, these uninvited guests can cause significant problems that extend far beyond simple property disruption.

Wildlife activity in Indiana varies throughout the seasons, with spring bringing mating season intrusions, summer peak foraging activity, autumn shelter-seeking behavior, and winter refuge attempts. Each season presents unique challenges for homeowners trying to maintain their property’s integrity.

Call 317-535-4605 For Licensed Raccoon Control Services in Indianapolis
Call 317-535-4605 For Licensed Raccoon Control Services in Indianapolis

Common Nocturnal Culprits in Indianapolis

Opossums: The Opportunistic Scavengers

North America’s only native marsupial, the opossum, presents unique challenges for Indianapolis homeowners. While generally less destructive than raccoons, these nocturnal animals still pose significant risks to your property and family’s health.

Opossums demonstrate their opportunistic nature by knocking over trash bins and consuming garden produce, particularly fruits and vegetables. They establish nesting sites under decks, sheds, and porches, where their presence can attract other pests and create unsanitary conditions. More concerning, opossums can carry diseases harmful to pets, including leptospirosis and tuberculosis.

Their foraging habits often lead to damaged lawns as they dig for grubs and insects, leaving behind unsightly holes and disturbed soil. While they rarely cause structural damage, their presence indicates potential entry points that more destructive animals might exploit.

Bats: The Silent Invaders

Bats provide valuable ecological services by controlling insect populations, but their presence in your home creates serious health and property concerns. These flying mammals often establish roosts in attics, walls, and other enclosed spaces where they can cause long-term damage.

The primary concern with bat infestations involves their droppings, known as guano. This waste material accumulates quickly and can damage insulation while creating persistent, unpleasant odors throughout your home. Guano also poses health risks, as it can contain histoplasma capsulatum, a fungus that causes respiratory illness in humans.

Beyond property damage, bats present potential disease transmission risks, including rabies. While bat bites are often undetectable, any direct contact with these animals requires immediate medical attention. Their roosting activities can also create noise disturbances that disrupt sleep and daily activities.

Raccoons: The Masked Bandits

Raccoons are perhaps the most notorious nocturnal troublemakers in Indianapolis. These intelligent mammals possess dexterous front paws that allow them to manipulate latches, open garbage cans, and tear through building materials with surprising ease.

These adaptable creatures cause extensive property damage through multiple avenues. Raccoons frequently tear shingles off roofs to create nests in attics, leaving your home vulnerable to water damage. They ransack garbage cans, scattering waste across your yard and attracting other pests. Your carefully maintained gardens and decorative ponds become their personal buffets, often resulting in significant landscaping costs.

During colder months, raccoons seek warm shelter in attics or chimneys, where their nesting activities can damage insulation and create fire hazards. Their strong claws and teeth can tear through soffit vents and roof materials, creating entry points that compromise your home’s structural integrity.

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Identifying Nocturnal Animal Damage

Recognizing signs of nocturnal animal activity enables early intervention before minor issues become major problems. Wildlife tampering often leaves distinct evidence that trained eyes can identify quickly.

Physical damage provides the most obvious indicators of animal presence. Look for torn shingles, damaged soffits, or holes in exterior walls that suggest entry attempts or successful intrusions. Scratch marks on trees, siding, or other surfaces indicate climbing activity, while disturbed mulch or soil suggests foraging behavior.

Droppings serve as reliable indicators of specific animal types and activity levels. Raccoon droppings resemble small dog waste, while bat guano appears as dark, crumbly pellets. Rodent droppings are much smaller and often found along walls or in storage areas. Fresh droppings indicate active infestations requiring immediate attention.

Auditory clues often provide the first warning signs of nocturnal visitors. Scratching, scurrying, or thumping sounds in walls, attics, or crawl spaces suggest animal presence. These sounds typically intensify during nighttime hours when animals are most active.

Prevention Tips for Wildlife Control

Effective wildlife control begins with eliminating attractants and securing potential entry points before problems develop. Prevention costs significantly less than removal and repair services while protecting your family from health risks.

Food Source Management

Food source management represents the most critical prevention strategy. Secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and store them away from your home’s exterior walls. Remove fallen fruits from trees and clean up pet food that might attract unwanted visitors. Bird feeders should be positioned away from your home and cleaned regularly to prevent seed accumulation.

Structural Modifications

Structural modifications provide long-term protection against animal intrusions. Seal gaps around pipes, vents, and other entry points using appropriate materials like steel wool or hardware cloth. Install chimney caps and repair damaged roof areas that might provide access to your attic. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof, eliminating easy climbing paths for raccoons and other animals.

Environmental Modifications

Habitat modification reduces your property’s appeal to nocturnal animals. Remove brush piles, woodpiles, and other potential nesting sites near your home. Maintain clean, well-lit outdoor areas that discourage animal activity. Consider motion-activated lighting systems that startle nocturnal visitors without creating constant light pollution.

Recommended Animal-Proofing Products

Standard Repellents

Several commercial products can enhance your wildlife control efforts when used properly. Critter Ridder granular repellent effectively deters raccoons and skunks from garden areas and garbage storage locations. Apply this product according to manufacturer instructions and reapply after heavy rainfall. You can also make your own, homemade animal repellent.

Electronic Repellents

Ultrasonic repellers emit high-frequency sounds that deter rodents and bats without affecting humans or most pets. Place these electronic devices in attics, basements, and other areas where animal activity occurs. Multiple units may be necessary for larger spaces or severe infestations.

Mesh Netting

Mesh netting provides physical barriers that protect specific areas like gardens, ponds, or ventilation systems. Choose appropriate mesh sizes for your target animals and ensure proper installation to prevent gaps that animals might exploit.

When to Call Professional Wildlife Removal Services

Recognizing when to contact professional Indianapolis wildlife removal services protects your family’s safety and ensures humane animal treatment. Certain situations require specialized knowledge and equipment that homeowners shouldn’t attempt to handle independently.

Safety concerns should always prompt professional intervention. Any direct contact with bats, signs of rabid behavior in any animal, or large infestations pose risks that exceed typical homeowner capabilities. Professional wildlife removal technicians possess proper protective equipment and training to handle dangerous situations safely.

Extensive property damage indicates established animal populations that require comprehensive removal strategies. Multiple entry points, structural damage, or recurring problems suggest complex infestations that benefit from professional assessment and treatment plans.

Legal considerations also necessitate professional involvement. Indianapolis ordinances regulate wildlife removal methods and may require permits for certain animal types. Professional services understand local regulations and employ legal, humane removal techniques that comply with municipal requirements.

Conclusion

Choosing professional wildlife removal services is not only the safest option but also the most effective way to protect your home and health. By relying on trained experts, you can be assured that the process will be handled humanely, efficiently, and without further risk to your property or well-being. Don’t take unnecessary risks—invest in professional help to address wildlife issues responsibly and preserve the harmony of your living space.

Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal today to schedule a consultation with our experienced wildlife removal specialists. Protect your home, ensure your safety, and restore peace of mind by choosing a trusted and professional solution. Don’t wait—reach out now and take the first step toward a wildlife-free home!

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Related Post: Synanthropes in Indiana: Wildlife Thriving Alongside Humans

Synanthropes in Indiana: Wildlife Thriving Alongside Humans

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Wildlife has an uncanny way of adapting to the environments we create. From raccoons raiding trash cans to deer grazing on suburban gardens, some animals thrive in close proximity to humans. These creatures, known as synanthropes, coexist with us by taking advantage of human-modified landscapes.

But what about Indiana? With its mix of urban centers, suburban sprawl, and natural areas, Indiana offers an intriguing setting for exploring synanthropes. From local folklore to practical advice on wildlife control, let’s take a closer look at these fascinating creatures and their role in Indiana’s ecosystems.

Call 317-535-4605 to Reach Our Licensed Indiana Raccoon Removal Professionals
Call 317-535-4605 to Reach Our Licensed Indiana Raccoon Removal Professionals

What Are Synanthropes?

Synanthropes are animals that adapt exceptionally well to living near humans. Unlike wildlife that actively avoids human-dominated areas, synanthropes find ways to thrive. Common examples include raccoons, coyotes, and deer, all of which are known for their incredible adaptability.

These animals aren’t necessarily pests. They play key roles in ecosystems, even in urban and suburban environments. However, their proximity to humans can sometimes create conflicts, such as raided trash cans, garden destruction, or the occasional wildlife sighting that causes alarm.

Historical and Folklore Evidence of Synanthropes in Indiana

Indiana is no stranger to wildlife stories. Historical accounts and anecdotal evidence are rife with tales of animals adapting to human environments. For instance, older Hoosier residents may recall stories of raccoons living in barn rafters or deer regularly appearing on farmland close to suburban areas.

Local legends also highlight the cultural impact of synanthropes. Stories of elusive coyotes lurking on the edges of towns have circulated for decades, sometimes giving these animals an almost mythical status. While not all of these accounts are based on verified data, they hint at Indiana’s long-standing relationship with synanthropic species.

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Why Indiana’s Environment Fosters Synanthropic Wildlife

Indiana’s varied landscapes make it a natural haven for synanthropes. Here’s why:

Urban and Suburban Areas

Raccoons thrive in Indiana’s urban and suburban settings, where trash cans, compost bins, and pet food left outdoors provide a steady food source. Similarly, coyotes adapt by frequenting parks, golf courses, and green spaces that offer shelter and prey like rodents.

Agricultural Zones

Indiana’s agricultural landscape provides unique opportunities for deer. Croplands offer a buffet of food options, while wooded areas at field edges serve as excellent cover. This blend of farmland and nearby forests is ideal for synanthropic deer populations.

Natural Areas

The state’s rich biodiversity is also a draw. From dense woodlands to flowing rivers, these habitats allow synanthropes to balance their interactions with human settlements and more traditional wildlife survival strategies.

The Cultural Impact of Synanthropes in Indiana

Beyond their ecological roles, synanthropes often become embedded in local culture. Coyotes, for example, sometimes symbolize resilience and adaptability in the face of change. Meanwhile, raccoons are frequently portrayed as mischievous yet resourceful creatures.

Unfortunately, these animals’ proximity can also lead to misunderstandings and fear. Some residents may view coyotes as a threat to pets, or deer as nuisances that wreak havoc on gardens. Bridging this gap between awe and annoyance lies in understanding and education.

Safe and Humane Wildlife Control for Indiana Residents

Living alongside synanthropes doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right approach, Indiana residents can minimize conflicts while respecting these animals’ roles in the ecosystem. Here’s how:

▶ Contact Licensed Wildlife Professionals – For persistent issues, always turn to licensed experts like Indiana Raccoon Removal for removal and management. They ensure humane and legal handling of wildlife. They can also inspect homes and buildings for potential entry points, sealing them to prevent future invasions.

▶ Avoid Direct Contact – Wild animals can carry diseases. Never attempt to handle them on your own. Instead, reach out for professional assistance.

▶ Implement Humane Deterrents – Motion-activated lights, noise devices, or even certain scents can effectively deter animals like raccoons and coyotes from venturing too close to your property.

▶ Secure Attractants – Properly seal trash cans and compost bins to eliminate easy food sources. Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outdoors overnight.

▶ Promote Community Education – Work with neighbors to ensure a coordinated approach to wildlife management. When everyone follows best practices, it reduces incidents across the neighborhood.

▶ Support Conservation Initiatives – Join local efforts that focus on wildlife education and ecosystem preservation. Supporting organizations that promote balance between humans and wildlife ensures a healthier environment for all.

▶ Contact Indiana DNR – For state-specific regulations and guidelines, reach out to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. They provide valuable resources and advice tailored to Indiana’s unique ecosystem.

Building Awareness Around Synanthropes

Understanding synanthropes and their presence in Indiana is an ongoing process. Each sighting, each anecdote, and each study adds to our collective knowledge about how we coexist with these adaptable animals. It’s a topic that sits at the nexus of ecology, urban planning, and community living.

By fostering awareness, we can bridge the gap between admiration and practicality, allowing wildlife and human life to coexist harmoniously. Indiana’s residents have a unique opportunity to shape how synanthropes are perceived, managed, and even celebrated.

In Summary

Living alongside synanthropes like raccoons, coyotes, and deer doesn’t have to be a source of friction. With the right tools, knowledge, and community collaboration, Indiana residents can enjoy the benefits of local biodiversity while minimizing conflicts.

If you’re dealing with a nuisance raccoon challenge, contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal today. We offer humane raccoon removal and control service in Central Indiana.

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Related Post: Critter Control: Expert Tips on Deterring Raccoons

Fortify Your Fortress: How to Seal Your Home Against Raccoon Intrusions

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Raccoons, with their masked faces and dexterous paws, might seem like charming creatures. However, when they start eyeing your home as their new abode, the charm quickly fades. Understanding raccoon behavior is crucial for homeowners looking to protect their property. These nocturnal animals are notorious for seeking shelter in warm, dry places, which often leads them to your attic, chimney, or even crawl spaces. Sealing your home’s exterior is not just a preventative measure but a necessary step to avoid raccoon intrusions that could lead to costly damage and potential health risks.

Call 317-535-4605 For Licensed Raccoon Control Service in Indianapolis
Call 317-535-4605 For Licensed Raccoon Control Service in Indianapolis

Early Signs of Raccoon Intrusion

Recognizing the signs of raccoon presence in and around your property can save you from significant headaches down the line. One of the most common indicators is the presence of raccoon tracks, which often appear muddy or dusty near entry points. You might also notice overturned garbage cans, paw prints, or even visible damage to vents and shingles.

Raccoons are known for being messy eaters, so scattered food scraps can also be a telltale sign. Furthermore, keep an ear out for noises at night, such as scurrying in the attic or unusual thumping sounds—these could indicate a raccoon intrusion.

The Importance of Sealing Your Home

Raccoons are opportunists, capable of squeezing through surprisingly small openings to gain access to your home. They can enter through chimneys, attics, and any weak spots they can exploit. Once inside, raccoons can cause significant damage by tearing insulation, chewing wires, and leaving behind droppings that pose health risks. Sealing your home is paramount to maintaining your sanctuary. By understanding how raccoons find their way inside, homeowners can take proactive measures to secure entry points and protect their property.

Steps to Seal Your Home

Preventing raccoon intrusions starts with a comprehensive examination of your home’s exterior. Begin by inspecting your roofline for loose shingles or open vents, common entry points for raccoons. Ensure that attic vents are securely covered with raccoon-proof mesh.

Chimneys should be equipped with caps to stop raccoons from entering and nesting. Pay particular attention to crawl spaces, which should be sealed with durable materials. If you’re unsure about tackling this task on your own, consider hiring professional raccoon control services that specialize in raccoon exclusion and prevention.

Once you’ve identified potential entry points, it’s time to put your plan into action. Use heavy-duty materials that can withstand raccoons’ persistent attempts to get inside. For example, metal mesh and sturdy wire can be used to cover openings, while steel wool can effectively block smaller holes. Make sure gutters and downspouts are tightly secured, and trim back tree branches that could provide raccoons with easy access to your roof.

Recommended Materials and Tools

Securing your home against raccoons requires a mix of materials and tools. For sealing vents and chimneys, opt for galvanized steel mesh, which is strong enough to deter raccoons without rusting over time. Heavy-duty caulking is excellent for sealing smaller cracks and gaps, and expanding foam can fill larger voids. A sturdy ladder, work gloves, and safety goggles are essential tools for any homeowner undertaking this task. Consider Eco-friendly options such as silicone-based sealants and recycled metal products to reduce your environmental impact.

Best Practices for Long-Term Prevention

While sealing your home is a significant first step, maintaining its integrity is essential for long-term raccoon deterrence. Conduct regular inspections of your home’s exterior, particularly after severe weather, to ensure that seals remain intact. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed and away from your home to eliminate easy access points for raccoons. Regularly clean your gutters to prevent water buildup that can weaken your roofline. Additionally, remove food sources such as pet food and bird seed from your yard, as these can attract raccoons and encourage them to linger.

Concluding Thoughts

Raccoon prevention is not merely about eliminating an immediate nuisance; it’s about safeguarding your home. By sealing your exterior against potential raccoon intrusions, you are taking a proactive stance to protect your investment and ensure peace of mind. Remember, if you find the process overwhelming or encounter persistent raccoon activity, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional raccoon control services. They can provide expert guidance and assistance in fortifying your home. Take action today to secure your fortress and keep raccoons at bay.

Are you ready to skip the hassle of animal-proofing against raccoons yourself? Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for licensed and insured raccoon control services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices around.

Related Posts:

9 Tips for Keeping Raccoons Away From Your Home
Raccoon-Proofing 101: How to Safeguard Your Property
Tips for Preventing Raccoon Conflicts on Your Property

Identifying and Eliminating What Attracts Raccoons to Your Property

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Raccoons may look cute, but they can be a real headache for homeowners and property managers. These clever critters are known for their mischievous ways and ability to make a mess of our yards and homes. If you’re tired of dealing with raccoons rummaging through your trash or setting up camp in your attic, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explore what attracts these nuisance raccoons to your property, and more importantly, what you can do about it.

Call 317-535-4605 For Raccoon Control in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-535-4605 For Raccoon Control in Indianapolis Indiana

The Facts About Raccoon Behavior

Raccoons are highly opportunistic creatures, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness. They are constantly on the lookout for easy food sources, safe shelters, and accessible water. These clever animals thrive in urban environments where they can scavenge through garbage bins and find leftover food.

Understanding their behavior—such as their tendencies to explore at night and their ability to open containers—is the first crucial step in raccoon prevention. By recognizing their habits and the environments they prefer, we can take proactive measures to deter them from invading our spaces.

Typical Raccoon Habits:

  • Food Sources – Raccoons are not picky eaters. They’ll munch on anything from fruits and vegetables to small animals and human leftovers. Their keen sense of smell can lead them to your property if food is readily available.
  • Shelter Needs – Raccoons seek out warm, safe places to raise their young. Attics, garages, and even under decks can serve as ideal nesting sites. Once they’ve established a home, they can be challenging to evict.
  • Water Availability – Like all animals, raccoons need water to survive. Ponds, bird baths, and even pet water bowls can be an irresistible draw for them.

Common Raccoon Attractants

Identifying what draws raccoons to your property is crucial for effective raccoon control. Here are some common attractants:

  • Open Trash Cans – Raccoons love to raid garbage cans. The smell of discarded food is like a dinner bell for these scavengers. Open or poorly secured trash cans are an easy target.
  • Pet Food – Leaving pet food outside is a big no-no. Raccoons will happily gobble up any food left out for your pets. This can quickly become a habit for them.
  • Bird Feeders – While bird feeders are great for attracting birds, they can also attract raccoons. Spilled seeds and accessible feeders can turn your yard into a raccoon paradise.
  • Accessible Shelter – Unsecured crawl spaces, attics, and sheds provide perfect nesting sites for raccoons. Once they’ve set up camp, they can cause considerable damage.

Tips for Reducing or Eliminating These Attractants

To get rid of raccoons, you need to make your property less inviting. If there is nothing on your property that raccoons want, they will stop coming by. Here are some practical raccoon prevention tips:

  • Secure Trash Bins – Invest in sturdy, raccoon-proof trash bins. Ensure the lids are tightly sealed and consider using bungee cords to keep them secure. This will prevent raccoons from tipping them over and rummaging through the contents.
  • Remove Food Sources – Don’t leave pet food outside overnight. Feed your pets indoors or remove any uneaten food promptly. Additionally, clean up any fallen fruits or vegetables from your garden to remove another potential food source.
  • Adjust Bird Feeders – Place bird feeders on high poles with baffles to prevent raccoons from reaching them. Clean up any spilled seeds regularly to avoid attracting raccoons.
  • Seal Entry Points – Inspect your property for potential entry points. Seal gaps in your attic, crawl spaces, and sheds. Use materials like steel wool and caulk to close off any openings that raccoons could exploit.

Seeking Professional Assistance

Sometimes, despite your best efforts to deter them, raccoons can be incredibly persistent and resourceful. These clever animals are known for their ability to navigate obstacles and find food sources in surprising ways. In such cases, when your attempts to keep them at bay fall short, it’s best to seek professional raccoon removal services.

A thorough property inspection by professionals can identify potential attractants and entry points you might have missed. They can also provide tailored raccoon control strategies to prevent future infestations.

Overall, wildlife control experts not only have the tools and techniques necessary to safely and effectively remove raccoons from your property, but they can also provide guidance on preventing future intrusions.

Conclusion

Dealing with nuisance raccoons can be frustrating, but understanding their behavior and taking proactive steps can make a significant difference. By reducing attractants and securing your property, you can keep these pesky critters at bay. And remember, professional raccoon removal services are always there to help when needed.

Ready to reclaim your property? Don’t hesitate to take action if you have a raccoon problem! Indiana Raccoon Removal offers raccoon removal and control services in Indianapolis to help protect your home or business from these pesky critters. Contact us at 317-535-4605 for a free quote, today!

Related Posts:

Raccoon-Proof Your Trash: Essential Tips and Eco-Friendly Solutions
The Uninvited Guests: Signs and Solutions for Raccoon Infestations
Porch Protection 101: Getting Rid of Nuisance Raccoons for Good

Which Services are Included With Professional Raccoon Control?

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Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Raccoons are certainly capable of causing damages to a person’s property, Indiana. This is probably why they are most known for their mischief-making ways. Unfortunately, raccoons that live in rural or city areas are considered nuisance wildlife because they frequently trespass onto commercial and residential properties. Once on these properties, they do their best to gain entry inside the shelter; such as a barns, sheds, garages, attics, crawlspaces, under porches, and more. If they can gain entry into covered shelters, they can still take refuge within the foliage and landscaping of a property.

Whether they are inside or outside, wild raccoons can make quite a mess and cause a wide range of damages. For this reason, we have raccoon control services.

Learn About Raccoon Control

When you call a raccoon control company, you are seeking to enlist the team of trained and licensed animal removal and control technicians for help getting rid of raccoons. These kind of companies provide various services for when wild raccoons trespass onto residential or commercial properties. Depending on the type of company and their experience in the industry, these services can range from novice level to top-of-the-line professionals. The more accomplished and experienced the company is, the more services and amenities they offer clientele.

Lower-on-the-branch companies might only offer simple and basic raccoon removal services that do not require a license in the state of which you live. More complex raccoon removal jobs require state licensing and certification, as well as, extensive experience and training within the industry. This is because higher-trade raccoon control services facilitate minor restoration and repair for attic damages, crawlspaces, roofs, landscaping, and more.

Higher-level companies also retain the proper resources and teams to remove larger colonies, baby raccoons, and larger-sized raccoons. They are the ones who are certified to provide a certain type of raccoon extraction; and typically use only safe and humane methods to remove raccoons. Here are the majority services offered by standard raccoon control companies:

• Raccoon Removal
• Raccoon Cleanup
• Attic Restoration and Repair
• Raccoon Prevention
• Rooftop Repairs
• Odor Removal
• And More

If you think you might have raccoon problem or raccoons in the attic, call a local wildlife control technician right away. The longer you hesitate, the more damages raccoons can cause to your property. The more property damages they cause, the more costly the repairs will be. Keep in mind that homeowners insurance does not always cover animal damages because they believe it is that homeowner’s responsibility to prevent animal and patient in the first place. Raccoon control services can also offer raccoon prevention in order to stop raccoons from invading your property.

Indianapolis Raccoon Control

Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Raccoon Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon control services at the most competitive prices in town. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife rescue contractors who only use safe and non-lethal methods of raccoon exclusion and extraction. We also provide a wide range of additional raccoon-related services, including raccoon cleanup, minor attic restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon proofing, and much more. Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal you can trust.

Protecting Your Green House From Raccoons

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Now that spring is here which means it’s finally time to pay our gardens some much-needed attention. Gardening is a wonderful, nature-friendly hobby that reaps numerous rewards for the entire family. With all the hard work we put into managing our vegetable and flowers, it can be devastating to find that a nuisance animal destroyed it all in one nights’ time. Unfortunately, this is a common problem among homeowners and garden enthusiasts that live in areas where raccoons are abundant.

Having a raccoon problem is not only threatening to your crops, it is also threatening to your property and your home’s structural integrity. Once raccoons notice your property as a place for food, they never forget and will continue to revisit, increasing the damage they are capable of. One asset that has become a popular new feeding and sheltering spot for wild raccoons are green houses. It is important to learn how to keep raccoons out of your beloved green house in order to protect your bountiful harvests!

Raccoons and Greenhouses

Raccoons are constantly in search of a reliable food source and warm shelter. With the new advancements in technologies and science, many more average homeowners are able to create and manage their very own greenhouses. With an increase in greenhouse numbers in residential areas, raccoons have quickly taken notice to a new and abundant source of food and shelter. Fortunately, there are steps you can take as a greenhouse owner to protect your investment by thwarting raccoon activity on your property. Focus on these key tips to protect your greenhouse from raccoon damage:

• Never use poisons or harmful chemicals to keep raccoons away. These are cruel and in-humane, as well as, potentially lethal to your domesticated animals.

• Spend quality time in your greenhouse to prevent birds and other animals from nesting inside and destroying your plants. Routine use on an everyday-basis can be enough to scare wild animals away, including raccoons.

• Maintain a clean and tidy greenhouse. Excessive stashes of trash, water, animal feed, or seeds can attract raccoons and other wild animals. Keep items like these stored in a locked shed or inside the home.

• Inspect the interior and exterior of your green house on a regular basis. Look for holes, gaps, and openings that could have been caused by animal intruders. Seal or block all access points with crumpled foil, course steel wool, or animal-intended metal mesh.

• Consider renovated your greenhouse floors if they are made of dirt. This can allow animals to burrow through. Install concrete flooring, sheet metal, or other suitable flooring that will obstruct this from happening.

• Install electronic ultrasound machines, predator call sound machines, or motion-sensor lighting to scare away raccoons and other wildlife. Bright lights, predator sounds, and certain pitches can alarm a raccoon, changing their mind about visiting your property in the future. These can be purchase at a wide range of prices depending on brand, retailer, and quality.

• Use scents and smells to keep raccoons away. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil, or simply use moth balls, and place them strategically around your greenhouse. You can also try sprinkling cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or ammonia around the perimeter of your greenhouse or property line. Be careful using ammonia if you have dogs or cats. You may also try soaking a rag in apple cider vinegar overnight, then placing the rag into a bowl, and putting it outside your greenhouse.

• If you have a very large, climate-controlled greenhouse, it is highly recommended to get a greenhouse cat. Be sure to keep the cat exclusively in the greenhouse, and not in the yard, since a cat in the yard will just attract insects that are damaging to your plants. But a cat in the greenhouse is highly effective at protecting it from nuisance wildlife.

Raccoon Removal and Control in Indianapolis

Call 317-535-4605 for professional raccoon removal and control in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife control specialists with decades of experience in the industry. We only use safe and non-lethal methods of raccoon exclusion and extraction, and also provide a wide range of additional raccoon-related services. Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal you can trust.

Sick Raccoons: If it’s Not Rabies, it’s Probably Distemper

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Since raccoons are nocturnal, spotting one out during the day might instantly lead you to believe that it is sick with the Rabies virus. But more often than not, what may initially appear as Rabies is actually another type of viral disease called Canine Distemper. Continue reading to learn how to identify signs of Distemper in raccoons, and what you should do if you ever come across a sick raccoon during the daytime.

Raccoon Distemper

Raccoon Distemper is a highly infectious viral disease that is similar to the measles virus. It’s commonly found in wild raccoons and other nuisance wildlife as well. If you own a cat or dog, then you may be familiar with the Canine Distemper vaccine. This is a common vaccination given to pets every year to boost their immunity to the Distemper virus in case they ever come in contact with it some way or another.

It is spread just like a common cold, by airborne droplets of bodily fluid or discharges (i.e. sneeze, cough, spit, mucus, saliva, blood, feces, etc.). This virus can cause partial paralysis, violent seizures, fevers, vomiting, and more, and can affect both humans and pets. Without vaccinations, pets are unlikely to survive the virus, whereas, humans can be treated and cured. It is strongly suggested to have your pets vaccinated against Rabies, Distemper, Lyme, Leptospirosis, and more. Consider your veterinarian’s advice in terms of annual pet vaccines.

Distemper in Raccoons

If you spot a raccoon out during the day, alone and behaving oddly, then it is very likely that it is sick. Many symptoms of sickness fall into several of the same categories, so what sometimes seems like one illness is actually another. But in terms of Distemper, a raccoon that has been infected with the virus may display the following signs:

• Wet Eyes
• Runny Nose
• Lethargy/Fatigue
• Aggression
• Lack of Ability to Stand or Walk
• Loss of Appetite
• Inactivity
• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• And More

Spotting a Raccoon Nearby

If you happen to come across a raccoon during the day, whether they appear to exhibit signs of sickness or not, always keep your distance and never taunt them. Just because a raccoon is out during the day does not always mean there is something wrong with their health; they may just be lost from their mother, or foraging for food a bit early.

So regardless if a raccoon is sick or not, never attempt to approach or touch a wild raccoon. Instead, turn around and go the other way, or simply wait for the raccoon to wander off. If the raccoon appears sick and is on public property, there is no way to tell if it will move from that spot or not. In this case, as a Good Samaritan, it is polite to notify a raccoon removal company to pick up the sick raccoon so that it cannot indirectly harm another person, child, or pet.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control

Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional raccoon removal services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We are highly trained and DNR licensed wildlife control contractors with decades of experience providing safe and humane raccoon exclusion services for residential and commercial properties. We offer raccoon removal, raccoon cleanup, minor attic restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon proofing, and much more. Call 317-535-4605 today for Indianapolis raccoon removal and control you can trust!

Can I Shoot a Raccoon in My Yard?

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Nuisance raccoons are certainly pesky little critters to deal with, especially if they are doing loads of damage and destruction to your property every night. For this reason, it is understandable why many wildlife contractors face the question of whether or not a homeowner can hunt or shoot raccoons on their personal property. Professionals in the industry know that raccoon problems are frustrating and even scary for most, so the inquiry is not an alarming one. But there are a few things to know in regards to shooting raccoons in Indiana, and anywhere else in the country, before reaching for your rifle. Continue reading to learn the answer to this common question, and what to do when raccoons are causing problems on your property.

Killing Raccoons

The answer is somewhat complicated, since several counties and states have different laws surrounding animal hunting or killing. Many states require a permit for hunting, while others do not even allow the discharge of a firearm. For example, the state of Illinois allows the possession of a personal firearm, but discharging the firearm is illegal, making the shooting of an animal illegal. But in other areas, like Jefferson County, Missouri, a person is allowed to discharge their firearm as long as it is on their own property and for the sole purpose of defending their property. So if a raccoon is trespassing on a Jefferson County property every night, a homeowner can legally wait outside and shoot the raccoon on sight. In all states that allow the killing of a nuisance wild animal, there are laws prohibiting animal abuse. So although a homeowner can shoot or euthanize a wild animal on their property, they cannot torture or abuse the animal in anyway. It must be carried out in a legal and humane manner.

Whether your state allows it or not, the primary problem with shooting wild raccoons is the inhumanity factor. It is not humane to kill a raccoon simply because it is on your property and causing a mess. It is not their fault that over-development has forced them into urban areas. They are only mammals looking to survive anyway they can; and they happen to also be naturally very curious. Raccoons should never be harmed or killed under any circumstances, unless carried out by the proper authorities for good reason. The second, and equally important reason why killing raccoons is a bad idea is that it will not solve a raccoon problem. Killing one or two raccoons will do nothing to fix the issue.

The only way to stop raccoons from coming to your property is to eliminate the reasons why they are coming in the first place. All of the things that attract raccoons, like pet food and garbage, should be removed from outside. The home should be properly sealed to prevent prying paws from entering interior and exterior areas of the house. This includes roofs, soffits, windows, and doors. By removing all food and water sources, and protecting your home from animal entry, you can thwart raccoon activity in as little as a few weeks. If you do this and continue to have problems, contact a local wildlife removal and control company for non-lethal raccoon exclusion services. Keep in mind that there are legal repercussions for those who choose to neglect firearm and animal hunting laws in Indiana. So put that rifle away and call a raccoon removal service instead!

Raccoon Removal Indianapolis

Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional raccoon removal in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife control contractors with decades of experience in the industry. We only use safe and humane methods to remove raccoons and relocate them to a safe habitat. Whether for commercial or residential properties, our highly trained contractors have everything they need to fix the issue in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. And at the most competitive prices in town, you can rest assure you are getting the best deal at the highest value. Call 317-535-4605 to get rid of raccoons in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.