Raccoons are highly-intelligent creatures with dexterous paws that allow them to grip, grasp, pry, and pull. With these kinds of skill sets, it’s no wonder raccoons can easily access our garbage cans, and right under our noses! And since trashcans contain food scraps, they a primary target for raccoons on the hunt for food at night. Dumpsters, composts, and even recycling bins are not safe from raccoon plundering, unless they are prepped for raccoon activity. After all, raccoons are colloquially referred to as trash pandas for a reason!
If you are experiencing raccoon activity on your property, or have noticed that raccoons have been rummaging through your trash, continue reading to learn ways to keep them out for good.
Raccoon Control for Garbage Cans and Dumpsters
Raccoons are known carriers for infectious diseases, and they make an unforgettable mess out of trashcans. For these reasons, you want to stop raccoon trespassing in its tracks. The most effective practice you can implement to keep raccoons out of your garbage is to take your trashcans outside on the day of pickup. Leaving trashcans out overnight is a big no-no in terms of pest control. Raccoons view trashcans as a big, bright, flashing buffet, free of charge. They will instantly locate garbage-rich locations and remember these locations well. So, unless the garbage is controlled, raccoon activity will persist night after night.
How to Secure Outdoor Trashcans
If you must have trashcans outside, there are more options for keeping raccoons out of them. Consider tying down the lids of the trashcans with bungee cords. Insert the cords between the handles, and secure them in place to prevent raccoons from prying them open. You can also use a heavy object to keep lids down as well, such as a rock, cement block, or weight.
You can also thwart raccoons from wanting your trash by disguising the smell better. Try double-bagging your garbage, or adding air fresheners on the interior sides of the containers. You can even try using household items like mothballs, ammonia, peppermint oil, and cayenne pepper. Raccoons do not like these smells.
Opt for Professional Raccoon Abatement for Long Term Success
A professional raccoon control specialist can help you find areas of your property that are vulnerable to raccoons. They can also provide preventative maintenance and professional advice to stop raccoon problems and protect your home and landscape from raccoon damages for years to come.
Got Nuisance Raccoon Problems in Indianapolis or Central Indiana?
Call Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for fast and affordable raccoon removal and control services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our DNR licensed and insured wildlife rescue and control specialists offer nuisance wildlife abatement services, cleanup and minor restorations for animal damages, 24 hour emergency service, free estimates, and much more! Get started by requesting a free estimate or advice, today.
