If you are in our Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or Connecticut service area, then you know that raccoons can sometimes be a problem. While they may be fascinating creatures to watch, they can also cause a whole host of issues if they are allowed to roam free and explore your property.
Raccoons have grayish fur, a black mask around their eyes, and a long tail covered in black and brown bands. They typically reach around 2.5 feet in length and can weigh up to around 15 pounds. A raccoons hands look very much like tiny human hands with 5 fingers and a thumb. They can use these hands to collect food, open shells, and even open trash cans and the windows on a house.
Problems With Raccoons You May Not Know About
Raccoons can be fighters. They come equipped with sharp teeth and claws and they are strong enough to inflict significant harm to a human if they have reason to do so. There are numerous accounts of children and adults who have been disfigured by raccoon attacks. And they are known to inflict wounds on dogs and cats as well. Like all wild animals, raccoons will be more likely to attack if they are cornered, threatened, or protecting young.
Raccoons can transmit rabies. Next to bats, raccoons are most frequently linked to reported cases of rabies in the U.S. If a raccoon is rabid, it will be much more likely to come up close, rather than keep a safe distance.
Raccoons can transmit other diseases. The CDC lists the following diseases that can be spread by wildlife: roundworm, brucellosis, giardiasis, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, herpesvirus simiae, histoplasmosis, tuberculosis, rabies, and tularemia.
Some Issues You May Know About But Ignore
Raccoons love to get into the garbage. These animals are famous for being able to open things with their human-like hands. At every chance, they will open garbage cans and strew trash around, and other animals are more than happy to help make that mess worse. Going through trash cans and dumpsters makes it likely that a raccoon will pick up harmful bacteria. This is just one more reason to not touch a raccoon, no matter how friendly it is.
Raccoons sometimes take up residence in outbuildings, sheds, under porches, or in attics. If there is a secure, secluded place that they are able to get into, they will be happy to stick around, especially if there is heat involved. This is why these animals are sometimes found nesting just outside dryer vents.
Raccoons carry parasites. Most wild animals do not live alone. They can be carrying mites, ticks, and fleas, all of which will bring problems of their own if a raccoon takes up residence inside your home.
Is It A Good Idea To Try To Remove A Raccoon On Your Own?
While these creatures may act and look docile, as described above, they can be very dangerous. It is best to leave wildlife removal to the professionals. Here at Big Blue Bug Solutions, we have the knowledge, tools, and years of experience to safely and humanely remove wildlife.
Be safe. Do not try to remove raccoons or any other wild animal from your Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or Connecticut property. Reach out to wildlife control experts at Big Blue today for prompt, professional assistance.
