Symptoms
- Heavy footsteps, thumping, or growling sounds mostly at night
- Damaged vents, roof edges, or a torn chimney cap
- Droppings that are larger than rodent droppings, sometimes with visible seeds
Likely causes
- CommonDamaged or missing chimney cap or roof vent providing entryRaccoons are strong and dexterous enough to tear through weak vent covers or missing caps.
- CommonAttic or chimney offering a safe denning spot for a mother raising youngSpring is a common time for a female raccoon to seek a sheltered spot to raise kits.
- PossibleAccessible food source nearby drawing them close to the houseUnsecured trash or pet food outside can attract raccoons that then look for shelter close by.
What to do
- Do not attempt to trap or handle a raccoon yourself, since they can be aggressive, especially a mother with young, and can carry rabies or other diseases.
- Note the time and pattern of sounds to help a professional assess the situation before arriving.
- Avoid sealing any opening you find until a wildlife professional confirms the attic or chimney is clear, since trapping raccoons or kits inside causes worse problems.
- Secure outdoor trash cans and remove accessible pet food to reduce what's drawing raccoons close to the house.
- Call a licensed wildlife control professional to safely remove the raccoon and any young, often using a one-way exclusion process.
- Have the entry point professionally repaired and reinforced with heavy-gauge material once the animals are confirmed gone.
- Clean and disinfect the area afterward, since raccoon droppings can pose a health risk and professional cleanup may be recommended.
When to call a pro
Call a licensed wildlife control professional for safe removal and exclusion, and a cleaning service for droppings if advised.
Safety
Use caution
Do not attempt to handle or trap a raccoon yourself; they can be aggressive and carry disease. Call a wildlife professional.