If you've ever heard the rustling of your trash cans late at night or spotted a "masked bandit" on your porch, you’ve likely encountered a raccoon. These curious, nocturnal animals are known for their intelligence and mischievous habits. But while their playful nature is fascinating, when they get too close to home, they can cause serious problems.

Where Are Raccoons Hiding?

Raccoons are incredibly adaptable, and you’ll find them everywhere from deep forests to your city’s trash bins. These critters thrive in suburban neighborhoods where they have easy access to food and shelter. They’re also experts at squeezing into attics, basements, and even under porches if they find a small opening.

What Do Raccoons Love to Eat?

You might think of raccoons as trash-loving creatures—and you'd be right! But their diet goes far beyond scavenging. In the wild, they feast on fruits, nuts, insects, and small animals. However, in your neighborhood, they’re more likely to be digging through garbage cans, eating pet food, or even snacking on bird seed. Their ability to open trash cans and containers with their dexterous front paws is what makes them so effective at finding food.

How to Tell If a Raccoon is in Your Home

Raccoons don’t just wander into your home by mistake—they’re quite clever at finding entry points! They can squeeze through holes as small as 3-4 inches. If you're hearing scratching sounds at night, or notice damage to your roof, vents, or attic insulation, a raccoon could be nesting in your home. Their desire to find a safe, quiet place to raise their babies makes your attic or crawl space an ideal location.

Raccoon Mating: When to Expect Baby Raccoons

Raccoon mating season happens in late winter to early spring, and within two months, female raccoons give birth to litters of 3 to 7 babies, called kits. These adorable little creatures are born blind and helpless, but after a few weeks, they start exploring the world with their mother. If you’re dealing with a raccoon infestation in the spring, there’s a good chance you’ve got a mother and her kits in your attic!

How to Prevent Raccoon Infestations

If you’ve spotted a raccoon in or around your home, it’s time to take action before they find a way in. First, check your home for any potential entry points. Raccoons are excellent climbers and can squeeze through small gaps, so ensure vents, chimneys, and rooflines are sealed tightly. Look for cracks in the foundation or holes in the walls, and don’t forget about your attic—raccoons often nest in quiet, undisturbed spaces.

Another crucial step is to eliminate food sources. Raccoons are opportunistic feeders, and if they know there’s a steady food supply, they’ll keep coming back. Secure trash bins with tight lids, avoid leaving pet food outside overnight, and clean up fallen fruit or birdseed from your yard. If you have an outdoor compost pile, make sure it’s enclosed or far from your home. The less food available, the less likely a raccoon will stick around.

Lastly, if you’ve already got a raccoon in your attic or yard, it’s best to call a professional. They can safely remove the animal and offer solutions for keeping your home secure, so you don't have to worry about a return visit.

Conclusion

Raccoons may be clever and charming, but when they invade your home, they can cause serious damage. By taking proactive steps like securing entry points and removing food sources, you can keep these nocturnal creatures from making your attic their new home. If you suspect a raccoon has already moved in, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional wildlife control service to safely handle the situation. With the right knowledge and precautions, you can ensure your home stays raccoon-free—and avoid the headache of dealing with these furry intruders!