Raccoons
Raccoons can easily be identified by the trademark “mask” on their face, bushy fur, and unique tails. While they are portrayed as funny and engage in comical behavior that seems human-like, they can be quite dangerous. Not only can they wreak havoc in your home, basement, office, and attic, they can also pose a serious health risk. They are prevalent in North America, Central America, Japan, and most European countries, and they love to turn human homes into their dwellings.
Schedule Inspection
The Indiana Department of Resources
states that they can be found across the beautiful state but are more prevalent in places with shallow waters, woods, and croplands. Because of that, Northeastern Indiana has the largest population due to the state’s glacial lakes.
Their weight can vary between 10 and 30 pounds, and they usually appear gray and black. They make their homes (“dens”) anywhere that is suitable for them, so their choices are abundant. Their intelligence makes this creature extremely adaptable and they can find ways to make their homes in trees, caves, barns, attics, basements, and even vehicles. Being nocturnal, they are busy at night and typically hide and sleep during the day. Most people first suspect they have a problem when finding overturned garbage cans, feces scattered around their properties, and hearing running and activity throughout their house or yard at night. Raccoons also leave unique footprints that look like formed “handprints” that can easily be recognized in dirt and mud.
They are omnivorous and, like most animals, love to eat, preferring nuts, vegetables, fruits, reptiles, birds, mice, and unfortunately, our discarded food. That is why they are often found eating out of garbage cans, especially those with spoiled items in them. They are smart enough to wait until nightfall to make their move and then get their paws on any leftovers they can find.
In 2018, the Center for Disease Control reported that wild animals accounted for 92.7% of rabies infections in the U.S., and 30% of these were caused by raccoons. Rabies is spread through animal bites and scratches, so it is best for you, and your pest to avoid any encounters. They can also be carriers of a select type of parasite that is only found in their species and aptly named Raccoon Roundworm. Symptoms include nausea, muscle pain, tiredness, and liver problems. Extreme cases and lead to blindness and coma. Not surprisingly, the Humane Society does not recommend them for household pets and urges that people keep them away from their homes and families. Many veterinarians even refuse to allow raccoons in their offices due to how aggressive they can be and the risks they pose.
If you think you have them in your living or working space, it is time to call in professional help. The experts at Bug Off Pest Pros can quickly take care of your problem humanely to make sure these masked critters no longer invade your space and cause you problems. If you are in Muncie
or the surrounding areas, we have been the go-to pest control company for over 10 years. Call us today for a free estimate.