04 Jan

What Are Natural Raccoon Predators?

Raccoons may appear cute and even cuddly but these animals are very capable of defending themselves from predators using their sharp teeth and strong claws. Raccoons are also good climbers allowing them to quickly get away from predators and get an access to your property and cause damage. It is recommended calling a raccoon removal company to deal with such an issue. 

Still, some of the common natural raccoon predators in Canada include coyotes, bobcats, cougars and wolves. Crocodilian species such as caimans may also grab raccoons if they are near infested waters.

Large snakes such as the boa constrictor and large birds of prey such as hawks and eagles are also raccoon predators although less common than the aforementioned.

Although there aren’t many natural predators for raccoons living in Canadian cities and urban areas, large dogs routinely attack and kill these animals. Humans trap, poison and shoot raccoons whether for sport or out of necessity. Raccoons are also common victims of road-kill.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons

Raccoons are highly adaptive animals and have taken well to city life. Raccoons in the attic are one of the major pest complaints for homeowners living in cities in Canada.

Killing wildlife without the proper permits is prohibited. Poisoning, shooting or other lethal wildlife control methods are out of the question. Many people suggest DIY trapping but this is not as humane as often claimed.

Injuring wildlife is prohibited and wire traps can injure raccoons as they attempt to escape from the trap. Leaving the trap outside overnight (when raccoons are active and likely to get caught) exposes the animal to harsh weather and predators.

It is illegal to transport wildlife for more than a kilometer without the proper permit. Releasing a trapped raccoon a few meters from your home isn’t a permanent solution to the problem. Raccoons have a ‘range’ or ‘territory’ and will eventually find their way back to your attic. Meanwhile they are exposed to vehicles, predators and possible conflict with other raccoons because of scarce resources.

The best way to deal with raccoons is exclusion. Just like when they make their way under a deck.  The process involves installing a one-way door to let the raccoons leave the attic. The door only swings one way so the animals can’t make their way back into the den.

A professional wildlife control company is the best bet to get rid of raccoons in your home permanently. The process is labor intensive and includes installing the one-way door, sealing alternative entrances, inspecting the den for baby raccoons, cleaning all traces of raccoons and resolving what attracted the animals in the first place.

DIY exclusion is rarely successful so opt for a wildlife control company in Canada that offers a warranty for its work. Call Wildlife Shied: 647-560-3988 today and we will deal with your raccoon problem now.

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