Raccoon Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about raccoons.

  • What attracts raccoons to residential properties?

    Raccoons are drawn to easy food sources such as unsecured trash, pet food, bird feeders, fallen fruit, and accessible shelter areas like attics, chimneys, crawlspaces, and sheds.

  • Are raccoons active during the day or at night?

    Raccoons are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, but daytime activity can occur when food is scarce or when a mother is caring for young.

  • Why do raccoons enter attics and crawlspaces?

    Raccoons seek out attics and crawlspaces for warmth, protection from predators, and quiet spaces to raise their young, especially during late winter and spring.

  • Can raccoons cause damage to homes?

    Yes, raccoons can tear shingles, soffits, vents, and insulation, damage ductwork and wiring, contaminate areas with waste, and create structural issues over time.

  • What health risks are associated with raccoons?

    Raccoons can carry parasites and diseases such as roundworm and leptospirosis, and their droppings can pose serious health concerns when disturbed or inhaled.