Raccoons can seem cute when you see them wandering around outside. However, these animals can become a big nuisance if they decide to take up residence inside your home. Find out what kind of problems these critters can cause and why you might need Hilton Head raccoon removal services.
Identifying Raccoons
Raccoons are easy to recognize thanks to their mask-like markings on their face. They also have tails that have ringed markings and gray and black fur. Adult raccoons grow to weigh between 10 and 30 pounds and have a stocky build. They have sharp claws on their paws that make it possible for them to dig for food.
Raccoon Behavior
Raccoons are typically active in the evening and at night, although they sometimes come out during daylight hours to scavenge for food. These animals feed on meat and plants, including frogs, fish, mice, berries, fruits, grains and bird eggs. They are also known to forage through garbage cans to look for scraps of food.
Raccoons make their nests in outdoor areas that provide plenty of shelter, such as underground burrows and hollow trees. They sometimes make their nests inside barns and other outdoor buildings. In more urban areas, they build nests in sewers or in residential buildings. When they get inside buildings, they tend to make nests inside attics or chimneys. During winter, they don’t hibernate. Instead, they stay warm inside their dens when temperatures drop.
Raccoon Habitat
Where are you most likely to find raccoons in SC? When they live outside, you can often find them in wooded areas, especially those that are close to sources of water. Raccoons also live near farms and residential buildings.
Problems with Raccoons
Why might you need Hilton Head raccoon removal for your property? Although raccoons might be cute, they can be dangerous to have around. These critters can cause serious damage to your home if they claw their way inside your attic or chimney. Raccoons are also known to carry rabies, which can put you, your family and your pets at risk of getting this disease from bites or scratches. They also carry roundworm, which is a disease that can cause permanent vision loss and brain damage.
Raccoons can also cause trouble when they’re in your garden. They’re known to feed on crops or destroy them while digging for insects to eat. If you have livestock, these critters can kill chickens and other birds.
Signs of Raccoon Damage
How can you tell if you have raccoons on your property? These animals can leave claw marks behind on trees or buildings as they climb. You might also find feces and urine in your attic or on your roof if they’ve been on or inside your home. Keep in mind that raccoons can get into gaps that are as little as four inches. If they have found their way into your home, you might see torn shingles or fascia boards. You might also hear them moving around, especially at night.
If you notice any signs of raccoon damage, you’ll need to look into Hilton Head raccoon removal. Trying to get rid of these animals on your own can be dangerous. Raccoon removal experts know how to safely get these critters out of your home.
Preventing Raccoon Problems
How can you stop raccoons from causing problems for you? Getting rid of food sources for these animals is among the most effective ways to keep them away. Make sure that you have garbage cans with tight-fitting lids that raccoons can’t open or tip over. You should also seal up any gaps you have in your home, especially around your attic and roof areas.
If you have raccoons living in your home, contact Island Pest Control for service. We offer safe Hilton Head raccoon removal services for SC residents.
