FWC: Things To Do To Prevent Raccoon Problems

By  //  July 21, 2015

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A raccoon that does not run away in your presence or that comes around when you are feeding outdoor pets or livestock is likely just curious or trying to get a free meal. (Image for SpaceCoastDaily)

Who ya gonna call about raccoons?

FWC wildlife assistance biologists get their fair share of raccoon questions!

Raccoons are common throughout Florida and have adapted to living in suburban and urban areas. While they are more active at night, it is not unusual to see them out during the day.

Raccoons are curious animals and often observe things in order to learn about them.

A raccoon that does not run away in your presence or that comes around when you are feeding outdoor pets or livestock is likely just curious or trying to get a free meal.Raccoons-180-2

 

 

 

Do not feed raccoons, either intentionally or unintentionally.

Making a loud noise can scare away most raccoons if they get too close.

Prevention is the key to dealing with raccoon problems. Things you can do:

• Secure garbage lids with a rubber or ratchet strap, or enclose trash in lockable bins.
• Remove pet food and feeding bowls from your yard (particularly at night) and clean up bird seed from the ground. Make sure bird feeders are not accessible to raccoons.
• Fence food gardens with wildlife-resistant fencing.
• Secure chicken coops or other caged animal enclosures by using a single-wire electric fence located 8 inches above the ground.
• Place a net over ornamental fish ponds or use a replica of a floating alligator head in the pond as a deterrent.

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• Properly seal potential access points around your home, such as crawlspaces and attic vents.
• Use motion-activated sprinklers to keep raccoons out of specific areas (like gardens or fish ponds).

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Making a loud noise can scare away most raccoons if they get too close. (Image for SpaceCoastDaily)
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While they are more active at night, it is not unusual to see them out during the day. (Image for SpaceCoastDaily)