Raccoons are adorable to look at with their trademark black facial mask and black tipped nose. Raccoons are known as nocturnal scavengers that should not be approached during the day or night. These critters have adapted well to our human environment and will eat most anything that they can find. Their strong dexterous front paws allow them to open sealed trash cans, tear through attic vents, rip through damaged roofing material, and move soffits with ease. They are attracted to homes with bird feeders and pet food that is left outside.
As the cold weather sets in in New Jersey, raccoons will use crawl spaces and attics as a place to escape the cold harsh winter months. Once raccoons find a suitable nesting place, they will not give it up easily, and they will allow other raccoons to join them. Adult raccoons can weigh up to 20 pounds so their presence easily becomes known during the night time hours when the animals are most active.
NJ homeowners often find urine soaked insulation and piles of feces (which contain dangerous pathogens) in latrines that the raccoons create in their attics once raccoons have moved in. These critters are known to defend their nesting spots with a vicious passion, especially when babies are present. Raccoons are also known carriers of rabies.
Don’t let raccoons be a nuisance in your attic or crawl space. Allison Pest Control provides humane New Jersey Wild Animal Control Services to homes and businesses in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Call us for help now at 1-800-564-4585.