December's Pest of the Month – Raccoons

Noises in Your Attic?  Could be a raccoon.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Raccoons are one of the most charismatic species of animals found in North America. They are said  to be very intelligent; they can remember the solution to tasks up to three years later.

• 16 to 28 inches in length
• Weighs 8 to 20 lbs
• Grayish in color with white and black facial markings

HABITS

• Superb ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
• Common residents in cities, towns, and suburbs.
• Will live in hollowed out trees, caves, or even an attic or garage if they find one available.
• Consume both animal and plant matter.
• Diet varies with locality, season, and availability.

THREATS

• Commonly raid gardens, garbage cans, bird feeders, fish-ponds, and even kitchen cabinets.
• Have been known to use door knobs which makes cabinet doors fair game.
• A pet door is an open invitation into a home.

PREVENTION

• Provide an exclusion barrier where needed.
• Live cages around garbage cans.

For more information on raccoons and other wildlife removal, call Northwest Exterminating.