Raccoon Removal and Exclusion Services
in Northeastern Indiana & Southern Michigan
Raccoons might be harmless in their natural environment, but when they invade your property, they can create significant issues. These nocturnal creatures can cause damage to structures and pose serious health risks to both people and animals.
At Drake’s Wildlife Services, we specialize in
professional raccoon removal for both residential and commercial properties. Our team uses safe and effective techniques to eliminate raccoons and
prevent future infestations, safeguarding your property and restoring peace of mind.
NortheAstern Indiana & Southern Michigan
Why Raccoon Removal Is Crucial
Raccoons are more than just an inconvenience—they can wreak havoc on your property. Here’s why prompt removal is necessary:
- Health Hazards: Raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies, canine distemper, and raccoon roundworm, which can be transmitted through their urine, feces, or bites. Their droppings can contaminate surfaces and spread harmful bacteria.
- Property Damage: Raccoons have strong claws and sharp teeth, which they use to tear open vents, insulation, and roofing materials. They may also chew on wires, leading to electrical hazards or fires.
- Nesting Issues: Raccoons often seek shelter in attics or basements, where they build nests from insulation, fabric, and other materials. This can lead to significant property damage, particularly if they are left unchecked.
- Noise and Disturbance: Raccoons are nocturnal and often cause noise disruptions in the evening as they move around, scratch, or search for food. This can lead to sleepless nights and stress.
If you’ve noticed scratching sounds, droppings, or signs of entry like chewed-up wood or disturbed vents, it’s time to take action.
Call our experts at Drake’s Wildlife Services
for professional raccoon removal.
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What Is Raccoon Exclusion?
Removing raccoons and their waste can be a challenging task. Raccoon exclusion is the most effective way to address the problem of these pesky intruders. We use a thorough approach that combines removal, exclusion, and prevention to keep raccoons from returning.
Our methods not only resolve the immediate issue but also protect your home from further raccoon invasions. Here’s how we do it:
Inspection
Our team conducts a comprehensive inspection of your property to identify possible entry points, nests, and signs of raccoon activity.
Safe Removal
Using live traps or other safe methods, we humanely remove any raccoons from your home while ensuring minimal disruption to your property.
Exclusion and Repair
After removal, we seal any gaps, holes, and cracks in your roof, walls, or foundation to prevent future intrusions. We also recommend repairing damaged vents or chimney caps.
Cleanup & Disinfection
We remove raccoon waste, nesting materials, and contaminants from the area, ensuring your property is safe and sanitary.
Humane & Responsible Raccoon Removal
While raccoons are part of the local wildlife ecosystem, their presence inside your property can lead to health risks and damage. At Drake’s Wildlife Services, we are committed to humane removal practices that respect the well-being of the animals while protecting your property. We comply with all local wildlife regulations and ensure that raccoons are relocated safely.
In many states, raccoons are classified as protected furbearers, meaning trapping or hunting them requires a license or permit. Legal methods for dealing with raccoons can vary depending on local regulations, which is why it's important to leave this job to experienced professionals.
Signs You Might Have a Raccoon Problem
Raccoons are stealthy creatures, and they often operate under the cover of night. However, their presence isn’t always subtle. Look out for these signs:
- Droppings: Raccoon droppings are larger than those of other pests and often contain seeds, fur, or bones. You may find them near entry points or around food storage areas.
- Damage: Raccoons can cause significant damage to your home as they claw and chew their way into attics, chimneys, and walls. Look for torn insulation or chewed wood.
- Nighttime Noises: If you hear scratching, scurrying, or growling noises in your attic or walls at night, it could be raccoons searching for food or making their nests.
- Visible Tracks: Raccoons leave behind distinctive paw prints, especially around areas where they have gained access, like near vents or rooflines.
- Foul Odors: A raccoon infestation can cause musty, unpleasant odors due to urine and feces, which might linger even after they’ve been removed.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait to call in the experts for an inspection and removal.
Preventing Future Raccoon Invasions
Once we’ve removed the raccoons, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent them from returning. By taking proactive steps, you can reduce the likelihood of another raccoon invasion.
Our team will guide you through effective prevention measures, such as:
Seal Potential Entry Points
We identify and seal any gaps, holes, or vents that could serve as entry points for raccoons, ensuring they can’t gain access again. Any roof damage or holes should be repaired promptly to prevent raccoons from entering through these vulnerable spots.
Reduce Attractants
The most effective way to handle a raccoon problem is to prevent them from settling in. By eliminating potential food sources and making your property less inviting, you can encourage any raccoons currently on your property to move on.
Proper Garbage Storage
Secure trash bins with lids that raccoons can’t open. Also, avoid leaving food out overnight that may attract them.
Trimming Trees
Trim back tree branches or vines that could provide easy access to your roof or attic.
The Risks of DIY Raccoon Removal
Trying to handle a raccoon infestation on your own is dangerous, ineffective, and potentially illegal. These animals can become aggressive if cornered, and their waste can spread harmful diseases. DIY methods, such as using chemicals or setting traps, can fail to address the root cause and may even worsen the problem by attracting more wildlife.
Additionally, improper handling of raccoons can lead to legal issues, as many areas require permits for trapping and relocating wildlife. Our team at Drake’s Wildlife Services specializes in safe, legal, and humane raccoon removal, ensuring your property is protected without violating local laws.
Have used Drakes for both raccoons at work and groundhogs at my own home. Excellent communication on arrival times and status of captures and repairs.
Karl
After having a ridiculous quote from another company, I called Drake’s and they came out the next day. From getting the raccoons out of my attic, the clean up and the repairs to my soffit where they were getting in, Drake’s was professional, knowledgeable, genuine and dependable. I didn’t pay for unnecessary add ons and they did a fantastic job!
Jena
Frequently Asked Questions
About Raccoon Removal
How do I know if I have a raccoon infestation?
Look for droppings, scratching noises at night, visible damage to your roof or attic, or foul odors around your home. A professional inspection can confirm the presence of raccoons.
Are raccoons dangerous?
Yes, raccoons can carry diseases like rabies, leptospirosis, and raccoon roundworm. Their waste can contaminate your property and pose health risks.
What methods do you use to remove raccoons?
We use humane trapping and removal methods, followed by thorough exclusion and repair services to keep raccoons from re-entering your property.
How quickly can you get rid of the raccoons in my home?
The timeline depends on the severity of the infestation, but many cases are resolved within a few days. Larger infestations or those involving babies may take longer.
Can I handle a raccoon infestation myself?
Raccoon removal requires specialized knowledge and tools. DIY methods can be ineffective or dangerous. It’s best to leave it to professionals who can safely and legally address the issue.
How do you prevent raccoons from coming back?
We identify and seal all possible entry points, provide advice on securing your home, and help you maintain a raccoon-free environment.
Are your raccoon removal methods safe for pets and children?
Absolutely. We use non-toxic, pet-friendly methods and take all necessary precautions to ensure that your home remains safe for everyone.
What are the most common entry points for raccoons?
Raccoons typically enter through vents, chimneys, rooflines, cracks, and gaps around windows or doors. They can fit through surprisingly small openings.
How much does raccoon removal cost?
The cost varies depending on the extent of the infestation and the work needed to secure entry points. We provide customized quotes after a detailed inspection.
How can I schedule an inspection or removal service?
It’s easy! Call us at 260-215-5367 or fill out our online form, and we’ll schedule a convenient time for our team to assess your property and begin the removal process.
Contact Drake’s Wildlife Services for Expert Raccoon Removal
Don’t let raccoons take over your property. At Drake’s Wildlife Services, we offer comprehensive raccoon removal and exclusion services to protect you from these pesky intruders. Our experienced team is ready to help you reclaim your space.
Call us today at
260-215-5367 or fill out our online form to schedule your inspection and removal service in Northeastern Indiana & Southern Michigan. We’ll ensure your property is raccoon-free and safe.
