Raccoon Facts: Rodent Or Not?
March 15, 2021 - Wildlife
While raccoons are an animal many people are familiar with to an extent, there are a lot of misconceptions about them. For one thing, it’s easy to assume that raccoons are a type of large rodent especially because they are known for being pests and getting into the trash. But, the truth is that they actually are a part of a completely different genus called Procyon, and they aren’t rodents at all.
While they aren’t rodents, raccoons can still cause many issues for property owners, and they are even considered a pest in Central Ohio. Because of this, it’s important to know how to identify raccoons as well as how to prevent them.
What Do Raccoons Look Like?
Raccoons are usually known for the mask-like appearance of the black markings around their eyes. They are rather stocky in build and can get up to three feet long once they reach adulthood. They have grayish fur and their tails have black and white ringed markings.
Raccoons are one of the most common wildlife problems in the area, and they usually come around looking for food or shelter. When living in the wild, raccoons make dens in holes in trees, but they can be rather resourceful. They will also nest in attics, crawl spaces, barns, and sheds.
Are Raccoons Dangerous?
Raccoons are known for their tendency to sort through and eat trash, but they also have a reputation for being rather cute and even cuddly. However, while they might seem adorable from afar, raccoons aren’t tame pets. While most aren’t aggressive and not every raccoon has rabies, they are still wild animals who will defend themselves if they need if they perceive a threat.
It’s also true that they do play an important role in the environment as their droppings help spread new plants and can also renew the soil. But, this doesn’t mean raccoons are a good thing to have around your property.
Raccoons can be carriers of rabies, and they can also spread other illnesses such as raccoon roundworms. On top of this, they carry fleas and ticks which can spread their own illnesses including Lyme disease. Because of this, it’s potentially dangerous to your health as well as your family and pets to have raccoons around.
What’s The Best Way To Handle Raccoon Problems?
Because raccoons are a relatively large pest and because they can spread illnesses, it’s not advisable to try to remove them on your own. The safest and most effective way to handle a raccoon issue around your home or business is with help from the experts at Mandau's Pest Solutions.
We provide both residential and commercial pest control options including wildlife prevention and control. To find out more about protecting your home or business from these troublesome pests, give us a call today.
Some Raccoon Prevention Tips
If you aren’t currently dealing with raccoons, one of the best things you can do is take preventive measures to make your property less appealing to them. While these DIY steps aren’t guaranteed, they can reduce the risk that raccoons will live on your property.
Make sure to cover all trash cans with secure lids and also remove any trash from around your property.
Seal up access points around outbuildings such as sheds and garages.
Install lattices and steel screens around porches to keep raccoons out.
Keep pet food stored indoors.
These prevention steps are helpful but for the best protection from raccoons and other pests contact Mandau's Pest Solutions.
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Bret came to our home to treat our pest issues same day and was thorough and knowledgeable! Pricing was lower than 4 other companies I'd contacted. Highly recommend!
