Raccoons in Indiana: An Environmental Impact Study

Posted on November 27, 2023 by Budgetanimal

Welcome to our deep dive into the world of raccoons in the Hoosier State. The common raccoon, a familiar sight in Indiana’s backyards, parks, and wilderness, plays a significant role in the state’s environmental landscape.

This blog post focuses on the environmental impact of these fascinating creatures, shedding light on the importance of raccoon control and the symbiotic relationships they maintain with their surroundings. Join us as we explore the influence of raccoons on our environment, from their role in the ecosystem to the challenges they pose, and the importance of effective management strategies.

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The Common Raccoon: A Keystone Species

The Common raccoon, scientifically known as Procyon lotor, is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. These adaptable creatures have established a thriving population in Indiana, thanks to their ability to survive in diverse habitats and feed on a wide range of food sources. While they may seem like pesky pests to some, raccoons are considered a keystone species in the state’s ecosystem. This means that their presence has a significant impact on the health and balance of their environment.

The Role of Raccoons in the Ecosystem

Raccoons play many vital roles in Indiana’s ecosystem. As omnivores, they feed on both plants and animals, making them important in maintaining a balanced food web. Their diet consists of fruits, nuts, insects, small vertebrates, and even garbage. By consuming a variety of foods, raccoons help control populations of pests like rodents and insects. Additionally, their foraging behavior helps disperse seeds and pollen, contributing to the growth and diversity of plant species in the state.

Challenges Posed by Raccoons

While raccoons are an essential part of Indiana’s environment, they can also present challenges. As opportunistic animals, they may cause damage to crops, gardens, flowerbeds, and all sorts of interior and exterior property if not properly managed. Their scavenging habits can lead them to come into contact with humans and domestic pets, potentially spreading diseases such as rabies and distemper. Furthermore, their adaptability and high reproductive rate can lead to overpopulation, causing conflicts with other species and disrupting natural balances.

The Importance of Raccoon Control

To mitigate the challenges posed by raccoons, it is crucial to implement effective environmental modifications and management strategies. This includes measures such as securing garbage cans, sealing entry points to homes and buildings, and avoiding leaving out food sources that may attract raccoons. In cases of overpopulation, it is necessary to implement responsible and humane population control methods. These efforts not only protect human health and property but also ensure the well-being of raccoons by preventing overcrowding and resource depletion.

Common Signs of a Raccoon Infestation

1. Droppings

One of the most common signs of a raccoon infestation is droppings. Raccoon droppings are typically dark in color and measure around two to three inches in length. They may be found near food sources, such as garbage cans or pet food dishes, or in areas where raccoons have been nesting, such as attics or sheds. If you find any droppings, it is important to contact a pest control professional for assistance.

2. Damage to Property

Raccoons can cause significant damage to your property if they gain access. This damage can include chewed wires and insulation, ripped shingles, and torn screens. Additionally, they may also cause damage to potted plants, gardens, and lawns by digging for grubs and other insects. If you notice any of these signs of damage on your property, it is likely that you have an infestation.

3. Noises

Another sign of a raccoon infestation is noises coming from the attic or other parts of the home at night. Raccoons are nocturnal animals so they will be most active during the night hours when humans are asleep. If you hear scurrying noises or scratching sounds coming from inside your walls or attic, it is likely that you have an infestation.

In Summary

Raccoons are an integral part of Indiana’s environment, playing a significant role in maintaining its health and balance. While their presence may pose challenges, the importance of effective raccoon control cannot be overstated. By understanding the impact of these creatures on our ecosystem and implementing responsible management strategies, we can ensure a healthy coexistence between humans and raccoons in Indiana.

Hopefully this blog post has helped provide useful information on Indy’s local raccoon populations. Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for DNR licensed and insured raccoon removal and control in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. Request a free estimate or advice, today!

Preventing Raccoons from Entering Your Attic – Tips & Tricks

Posted on May 31, 2023 by Budgetanimal

Raccoons are a common problem for many homeowners. Not only do they rummage through your garbage and eat your pet’s food, but they can also cause serious damage to your home by entering the attic and creating nests. Raccoon infestations in attics can be dangerous due to their sharp claws and teeth, so it is important to take steps to prevent them from getting into your space in the first place. Continue below for tips and tricks on how you can keep raccoons out of your attic!

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How to Stop Raccoons From Getting Inside the Attic

1. Securely Seal Gaps in Your Home: Raccoons can squeeze through small gaps and openings, so it is important to make sure that all of your doors, windows, vents, and other potential entry points are securely sealed with caulking or steel mesh. This will help keep them out of your attic and other areas of the home.

2. Install Raccoon Repellents: There are many types of repellents available on the market that can be used to prevent raccoons from entering your attic. These include sound-based repellents that emit a high-frequency noise when triggered; ultrasonic devices that produce a pulse of sound waves; motion activated lights that glare at the intruder; and scent-based repellents that use natural animal odors to repel the animals.

3. Hire a Professional Raccoon Removal Service: If you have a raccoon problem in your attic, it is important to hire a licensed and insured Nashville raccoon removal service to safely and humanely remove them from your premises. These services will also be able to check for other potential entry points and provide advice on how to better secure your home against future intrusions. They may also provide attic restoration and infestation cleanup services.

By following these simple tips and tricks, you can help prevent raccoons from entering your attic and create a safe environment for your family. If you suspect that you already have an infestation or need assistance with raccoon exclusion, make sure to contact experienced professionals who can help protect your home from these furry pests.

What to Look for in a Professional Raccoon Removal Service

Raccoons can be a nuisance in your home or business, and it’s important to get them removed as soon as possible. But finding the right professional raccoon removal service can be tricky. Not all services are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before choosing one.

Here is what you should look for when selecting a professional for wildlife control service:

▶ Experience – The best way to make sure that the job will be done correctly is by hiring an experienced company with years of experience in raccoon removal and control. Ask about their success rate and how long they have been in business.

▶ Reputation – Read reviews from previous customers online or ask friends and family for references if they’ve used a particular service before. That way you know exactly what kind of results you can expect from the company.

▶ Quality Equipment – Make sure that the company uses top quality equipment to ensure safety during the process of removing any wild animals from your property. 4) Humane Practices – It’s also important to choose a company that practices humane methods when dealing with wildlife, such as trapping and releasing animals back into their natural habitat whenever possible instead of killing them off completely.

▶ Insurance – Choose a service that is insured and licensed by the state to guarantee they are qualified to do the job. This protects you and all other parties from certain liabilities.

By taking into account these factors, you can be sure to find a professional raccoon removal service that will get rid of your problem in an efficient manner. Remember, it’s important to act quickly when it comes to raccoons as they can cause serious damage if not taken care of properly. With the right wildlife control company, you can rest assured that your home or business will be free from any unwanted guests soon enough.

Hopefully this blog post has given you some useful information on raccoon removal from attics and residential settings. But if you have any questions or concerns related to coons Nashville, Tennessee, contact the licensed and insured wildlife control operators at Budget Animal Removal, today. Dial 615-337-9165 to learn about our animal removal services for raccoons and more.

Tips for Dealing with Raccoons this Winter Season

Posted on January 18, 2023 by Budgetanimal

As winter bellows on, many homeowners are starting to worry about the potential for raccoons in their attics and other living spaces. Raccoon infestations can be a huge nuisance and even dangerous if not dealt with properly. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize your chances of having an issue with raccoons this winter season.

In this blog post, we’ll cover some tips on how to prevent or get rid of raccoon problems in and around your home. We’ll discuss things like proper garbage disposal techniques, exclusion methods, trapping and more so that you can keep raccoons away from your property all year-round!

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Garbage Security

One of the best ways to prevent raccoon problems is to keep your garbage contained and secured. Raccoons are attracted to sources of food, so make sure that you are not providing them with a free meal in the form of an easily accessible trash can or compost bin. Securely fasten lids on all containers and use bungee cords, if necessary, to make sure that raccoons can’t get into your garbage.

Sealing and Repair

Another way to deter raccoons is to deny them access to the area around your home. If there are gaps or holes in attics, soffit areas or other living spaces, it makes it easy for a raccoon to gain entry. Seal off any potential entry points with heavy-duty mesh or hardware cloth and make sure to caulk all cracks and crevices. Additionally, always make sure that your pet doors are securely fastened when not in use.

Non-Toxic Repellent

If you’re looking for an effective way to keep raccoons out of your yard without risking any damage or harm, consider investing in a non-toxic raccoon control product. Such products utilize natural materials like pungent herbs and sprays that feature citronella oils or vinegar that help keep raccoons away without causing harm to the animals. They also help deter other problematic critters such as mice, skunks, and rabbits.

Professional Raccoon Control Service

Finally, if all else fails, contact a licensed pest control professional who can help determine the best course of action for your raccoon problem. They can provide advice on how to deal with the situation and implement an appropriate removal or control program.

Stay on Top of Winter Raccoon Control

Following these simple tips can help you prevent or get rid of raccoons this winter season. Remember, proper garbage disposal techniques, exclusion methods, trapping and professional help are all viable options when it comes to raccoon control. Stay safe and keep these tips in mind for dealing with raccoons this winter season.

Are raccoons becoming a nuisance around your residential or commercial property in Indiana? Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for DNR licensed and insured raccoon removal and control in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. Request a free estimate or advice, today!

The Top 5 Nuisance Animals in the Fall Season

Posted on November 9, 2022 by Budgetanimal

Fall is a time when many animals are preparing for winter. Some animals, such as squirrels and deer, are known for being nuisances during this time of year. Continue reading to brush up on some important tips on how to deal with these Fall season nuisance animals.

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Common Nuisance Wildlife to Watch Out For This Season and the Next

Squirrels and Chipmunks

If you have squirrels or chipmunks in your yard, try to keep them away by removing any food sources that they may be attracted to. Optimal squirrel control includes keeping your garbage can lid securely fastened and not leaving bird seed or other food out in the open.

Deer

In many parts of the country, deer have become a nuisance. They wander into yards and gardens, eat plants, and damage property. If deer are a problem, you can try using deer repellent or fencing to keep them away from your property.

Raccoons

If raccoons are raiding your garbage cans, make sure to keep the lids securely fastened. You may also want to consider investing in a raccoon-proof garbage can. Furthermore, raccoon diseases can be deadly, so it is important to be aware of them if you live in an area where they reside.

Opossums

If you have a problem with opossums, make sure to remove any potential food sources from your property. Opossums are attracted to garbage, so keeping your garbage can lid securely fastened is important.

All Other Nuisance Animals

If you have any other nuisance animals on your property, contact a professional wildlife control company for assistance.

How to Protect Your Home Against Wildlife Damages and Threats

As the weather gets cooler and the days get shorter, you may start to notice some of these unwelcome guests around your home. Raccoons, opossums, skunks, squirrels, and several other types of nuisance animals are looking for a warm place to nest and can cause damage to your property. Here are some tips to keep them away:

▷ Inspect your home for cracks or holes that could be used as an entrance. Seal up any openings with caulk or other materials.

▷ Keep your yard clean and free of debris. This will make it less attractive to animals looking for a place to build a nest.

▷ If you have bird feeders, keep them clean and free of moldy seed. This can attract rodents looking for a food source.

▷ Keep your trash cans sealed tight and don’t leave any food out where animals can get to it.

▷ If you have a fireplace, make sure the flue is closed when not in use. This will prevent animals from entering your home through the chimney.

Following these tips will help you keep nuisance animals away from your home this fall and winter. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact a licensed and insured Indianapolis wildlife control company for assistance.

All of these tips are possible with the help of our licensed and insured Indiana wildlife control operators. Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for DNR licensed and insured wildlife removal and control in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. Request a free estimate or advice, today!

Is it Raccoon Breeding Season?

Posted on September 15, 2022 by Budgetanimal

Have you spotted an increase in raccoon activity on or around your property? There is always a good explanation as to why. Your backyard might be grub-rich, enticing raccoons to dig up lawns and turf. You might have accessible food options, like unlocked trashcans or pet food. Or it could just be prime raccoon breeding season.

Continue below to learn which times of the year are breeding seasons for raccoons, plus what you can do to protect your home or business against raccoon tampering and intrusions.

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Raccoons are a Unique Species

Raccoon mating, breeding, and reproduction are pretty standard in terms of mammals. But there are some interesting facts surrounding raccoon breeding that sets them apart from other species. In fact, raccoons are fascinating mammals to learn about because they are so intelligent and curious. They exhibit strange and intelligent mannerisms and behaviors that still have us humans scratching our own heads! Learning about raccoons is fun and will give you a deeper appreciate for these smart wild animals. As for breeding, there is much you should know if you’ve seen raccoons on your property.

Breeding Seasons

Raccoons generally breed in early spring, usually around February or March, but also in early fall around September and October. However, mothers only raise one litter per year, so their breeding season depends on the region in which they live. Babies are born in April and May since mother raccoons have a 65-day gestation period, give or take a few days. When they breed in the fall, babies are born in November or early December, right before they shelter-up for the winter.

Raccoon Litters

Depending on the region and climate, litter sizes will vary. Most mother raccoons give birth to 2 to 5 kits, but sometimes just a single one. Litter sizes are typically larger in areas where raccoon mortality rates are higher. Raccoon babies are called “kits” or “cubs”, and are actually born blind, deaf, and without teeth! But they are born with their trademark black mask around the eyes. After 3 weeks or so, their eyes and ear canals will start to open. Once they are 2 lbs. or so, they will begin exploring their surroundings on their own. By 6 to 9 weeks, they are eating solid foods, and by 4 months old, they are completely weaned from their mother’s milk and hunting on their own. At this point juveniles split up for fall and winter since mother raccoons have already shown them to dens and food sources.

Mothers and Fathers

Male raccoons have no part in raising their young. It’s not personal, it’s just nature. Mother raccoons, on the other hand, are very protective of their litters. In fact, it is common for dogs and humans to be bitten or attacked by a mother raccoon trying to protect her young. For this reason, it is vital to never attempt to touch or instigate a raccoon if you see her with her young! Mother raccoons are great moms too. They show their kits how to hunt, climb trees, and protect themselves.

Do you have raccoons in the attic or raccoons disturbing your property? Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for professional raccoon removal and raccoon control in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial services at the most competitive prices around.

Top Nuisance Animals to Watch Out For in the Summer

Posted on July 18, 2022 by Budgetanimal

The Hoosier state is home to all sorts of wildlife. From water dwellers and land critters to flight takers, earthy burrowers, hide and seekers, and much more, Indiana is a place where the wildlife roam freely. Although nature is one of our most valuable and beloved assets, some animals are known to cross the line into nuisance territory. Common nuisance animals include bats, raccoons, skunks, squirrels, chipmunks, opossums, groundhogs, muskrats, coyotes, rabbits, and even birds. But in the summer, three of these known nuisance species are particularly bothersome to residential and commercial properties.

Continue reading to learn the top nuisance animals to watch out for in the summer, plus what you can do to protect your property against nuisance while activity and tampering.

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Top 3 Summertime Nuisance Animals in Indiana

Raccoons

This should not surprise you if you know anything about raccoons. Not only are raccoons heavily populated in Indiana, but they are a highly intelligent species. In addition to being incredibly smart and clever, raccoons have human-like paws with long sharp claws capable of gripping, grasping, and manipulating objects around them. As a result, raccoons are very successful burglars.

Not only can they easily access vulnerable properties, commonly, but they can also do a lot of damage. No matter where they go. Raccoons are commonly found in addicts, crawlspaces, and beneath porches and patios. However, they also freely roam the wooded areas near sources of water. If you live near a pond, lake, river, or creek, you likely have a raccoon population close by.

Raccoons are more of a problem in the summer because the high heat waves tend to rot and decay garbage at a faster rate, causing a more intense odor. Not only does the pungency of food and garbage attract raccoons to properties, but the heat also motivates them to find cooler, shadier shelters, like attics and crawl spaces.

Snakes

There are many species of non-venomous snakes in Indiana. Some of the more common species that you might find slithering through your lawn or gardens include Gartersnakes, Corn snakes, Ribbonsnakes, Brownsnakes, Red-Bellied snakes, and Kirtland’s snake. Although nonvenomous, they are known to be quite the nuisance in the summertime. Venomous snake species in Indiana include the Copperheads, Cottonmouths, Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes, and Timber Rattlesnakes.

Snakes are more of a problem in the summertime because they are not fond of the intense summer climate. As cold-blooded animals, snakes look for cool, shady areas to inhabit. If your lawn has tall grass, log piles, compost piles, or even trash, it will attract nuisance snakes in the summer. By mitigating these areas with snake fencing and lid locks, you can avoid a nuisance snake problem on your property.

Groundhogs

Although it might come as a surprise, groundhogs tend to increase their nuisance behavior in the summertime. First, groundhogs hibernate in the winter. So, when summertime comes around, they are ready to get moving and take full advantage of the ambient and fruitful weather conditions. that the season has to offer. One of their biggest priorities in the summertime is to find a mate, and they dig deep burrows to prepare for their lifelong partnership. Yes, groundhogs do mate for life. Their journey may cross paths with your property, especially if you live near a large body of water like a lake, river, pond, or stream.

Have you already experienced nuisance animal activity in your property this summer? Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for fast and affordable animal removal and control services to get rid of raccoons, groundhogs, snakes, and more We serve all of Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Request a free estimate or advice, today!

How to Stop Raccoons From Digging Up Your Potted Plants

Posted on June 10, 2022 by Budgetanimal

Raccoons are hungrier than your typical omnivore. As notorious opportunistic eaters, coons will eat almost anything, and will go to great lengths to get what they want. Dumpsters, garbage cans, pet dishes, gardens, fruit trees, and even garage refrigerators are common meal tickets for raccoons. Being that it is nearly summer, raccoons are relishing in all the new flora available to them. As a result, many homeowners are finding their precious, carefully-curated garden containers and potted plants pillaged night after night. If this is happening to your plants, you can likely blame local raccoons.

Continue reading to learn how to stop raccoons from digging up your potted plants, plus some additional animal-proofing tips that will benefit you year-round.

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Raccoons are an Omnivorous Species

The challenge with nuisance raccoon activity is the fact that it generally takes place at night, so all you see is the mess they leave behind in the morning. Raccoons are omnivorous, meaning they eat both meat and plant matter, including insects, fish, small lizards, small birds, eggs, fruit, vegetables, legumes, seeds, nuts, fungi, and more.

If you are growing something that is deemed tasty to a raccoon, which is basically anything edible aside from hot peppers—even if you have just planted fresh seeds, you can expect hungry raccoons to sniff them out. And they will not hesitate to yank plants and bulbs right out of the pot! You see, raccoons have an advantage with this because they are equipped with human-like paws that are very dexterous. They can dig, grip, maneuver, and pull plants easier than we can!

Inedible Plants are Still Attractive to Raccoons

Even if you are growing something that is not meant to be consumed, or a plant that raccoons hate, like hot peppers, menthol, and eucalyptus, they might still dig for it. This is because the enriched soil your flowers are planted in contains juicy grubs that raccoons eat like popcorn. They can smell these grubs and will track them down by pulling out your flowers and digging through the soil. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent raccoons from destroying all your potted masterpieces.

How to Raccoon-Proof Your Yard

To prevent raccoons from pillaging your potted plants, plus avoid attracting more nuisance wildlife to your property, you need to secure some boundaries. Start by moving all of your potted plants indoors at night, then returning them to their designated space in the morning. Raccoons are intelligent, and they will pick up on the fact that their favorite snacks are no longer available on your property.

You can also think about installing a chicken wire or a temporary fence to keep your pots and plants behind at night. Other ways to prevent raccoons from entering your property is to remove all water and food sources, including bird baths, fountains, pet food, squirrel feeders, and garbage cans. Be sure to also caulk all crevices and gaps in roof shingles, windows, under patios, and decks.

Are you looking for a more professional and advanced approach to long-term raccoon control? Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 to get rid of raccoons in Indianapolis, Indiana at a price you can afford. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Why You Need to Get Rid of Raccoons Right Now

Posted on February 18, 2022 by Budgetanimal

There are many reasons why you need to get rid of raccoons as soon as they begin to show signs of being a problem. Digging up lawns, pillaging gardens, plundering, pet food, infesting attics, soiling crawlspaces, and spreading disease are just some of the risks taken on by increasing recommend activity in your property. Such animal damages can lead to excessively high renovation bills, and worse, pose all sorts of health and safety risks.

As many already know, raccoons are known carriers of the Rabies virus, but also several other transmissible diseases, like leptospirosis, roundworm, distemper, lice, mites, fleas, ticks, and more. Needless to say, you do not want raccoons anywhere near your property. If there’s anything you can do about it. Fortunately, raccoon abatement and exclusion are possible with the right knowledge and methodologies.

Continue reading to learn more about why you need to get rid of raccoons right now and how to get started doing it today.

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Raccoon Animal Damages

Damages can become extreme and require costly renovation and repairs if left alone for long periods of time. It only takes one season for a raccoon colony to cause a heap of destruction in your home. The combination of their urine, droppings, birthing debris, and decayed food scraps are known to cause unsightly leaks in the walls and ceilings, unbearable odors inside the home, and upper respiratory illnesses.

Raccoon Diseases and Parasites

Overall, their mere presence is a threat to your health since they are known carriers of several infectious and transmissible diseases. Common raccoon diseases include Rabies, distemper, Leptospirosis, roundworm, mange, lice, ticks, and fleas. These illnesses are threats to both people and pets, making adequate raccoon control a top priority in areas with large raccoon populations.

Animal Proofing Against Raccoons

For these reasons and more, it is important to get rid of raccoons immediately after discovering them on your property. If you have only spotted them outside, then it is best to have your home inspected for holes and vulnerable spots, and seal them up before winter is here. Then implement certain practices to keep raccoons away from your property, such as removing pet food from outside, locking trash can lids, installing motion sensor lighting, and more.

Do you have raccoons in the attic or raccoons disturbing your property? Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for professional raccoon control in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial services at the most competitive prices around.

Is a Ringtailed Cat a Raccoon?

Posted on January 10, 2022 by Budgetanimal

The quick answer to this question is, yes. Continue reading to learn more about the Ringtailed Cat, and how they relate and differ from their distance relative, the raccoon.

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Facts About Ring-Tailed Cats

The Ringtailed is a mammal that is a part of the raccoon family, Procyonidae. They are scientifically known as Bassariscus astutus, and sometimes referred to as “miner’s cat” or “bassarisk.” Although they are much different from the common raccoon we know, you would be surprised to learn that they are similar in many respects, including appearance, behavior, diet, and more.

Appearance

Ringtailed cats have upright ears, pointy snouts, long whiskers, and large black eyes that are surrounded by light-colored fur. Their bodies are covered in a semi-soft, thick fur that comes in various shades, ranging from buff and beige hues to dark browns and black.

Their most distinguishable trait is their raccoon-like black and white striped tail. It is longer than their actual body, usually between 14 and 16 inches. They use it for balance, camouflage, and protection from predators. It is the trait that gives them their name. And they also have short, straight, semi-retractable claws that aid in climbing.

As for size, adults are generally similar in size to a standard house cat. From head to rear (not to tail), they range between 12 and 17 inches, and weigh on average between 1.5 to 3.5 pounds.

Diet

Like their relative, the raccoon, they are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and vegetation. Meat choices include bugs, small mammals, and small invertebrates, such as insects, fish, frogs, snakes, lizards, mice, rats, rabbits, and even ground squirrels. While vegetation includes seeds, plant matter, berries, juniper, persimmons, nectar, prickly pear, and more. They will eat whatever is in season and readily available to them.

Behavior

Ringtails are nocturnal, just like raccoons. They have terrific hearing and vision, which allows them to navigate in the dark and forage for food. They use a series of barking, clicking, and chattering sounds just like raccoons as well.

They are quite solitary too, usually going about their business alone until mating season in spring. They are hardly seen around human activity and keep their distance as much as possible. Their primary predators vary from region to region, but include bobcats, coyotes, foxes, owls, hawks, and more.

Reproduction

Spring is mating season for Ringtailed cats. Males care for females during their gestation period, which lasts an average of 45 to 50 days. They bring them food and protect them from predators. Females generally give birth to 1 or 2 baby ring tailed cats, called pups.

After a month, pups will open their eyes. From there, they will stay with their mother until they can hunt for themselves. This usually takes place between 4 and 6 months, but sexual maturity isn’t reached until 10 months. After that, ring tails live in solitude until it is time to mate.

Are raccoons becoming a nuisance around your residential or commercial property in Indiana? Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for DNR licensed and insured racoon control in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. Request a free estimate or advice, today!

Top Recommended Raccoon-Proofing Strategies

Posted on November 19, 2021 by Budgetanimal

Raccoons are known to use our homes and outdoor spaces as a source for food and shelter. Because they are excellent climbers and retain dexterous paws for gripping, clasping, and grabbing, raccoons are highly capable of accessing any area they choose, and even more capable of causing extreme damage and mayhem. If you live in a region with heightened raccoon activity, it would be wise to consider animal-proofing. Start by incorporating some preventative maintenance systems around your property to build a basic level of animal intrusion and tampering security.

Continue reading to learn some top-recommended animal-proofing strategies that will protect your home and property against nuisance raccoons.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons

There are several ideas homeowners and raccoon control specialists have thought of to keep raccoons away and stop them from getting inside our homes. Most of these remedies have proven to be quite effective as long as they are executed properly. Never, under any circumstances, attempt to catch, trap, harm, or kill a raccoon.

If you already have raccoons in your house and need them removed, contact a licensed and insured Indianapolis critter control company for 24 hour emergency animal removal service for raccoons. They will use safe and humane methods to extract raccoons and transport them to a faraway habitat.

Animal Proofing Tips for Raccoon Control:

► Homemade Raccoon Repellent

These homemade, nontoxic raccoon repellents do not harm raccoons, but they will irritate their senses and disgust their taste buds. Tastes, scents, and sensations that are most hated by raccoons include ground red pepper, ammonia, cinnamon, paprika, eucalyptus, menthol, and black pepper. Add these ingredients into a spray bottle filled with water, or simply sprinkle a mixture around the perimeter of your property and in areas of heightened raccoon activity.

► Store-Bought Animal Repellent

If you do not wish to make your own repellent, there are a few store-bought products that work just as well. One such product is called, “Shake Away”. It is a granular predator urine-based product. You apply it the same as the homemade repellent mixtures. It gives off the scent of predator urine, such as fox, coyote, and bobcat; making raccoons and other critters believe there is danger nearby. This product is worth the extra money because it stays in place longer. It will not wash right away in rain or bad weather. They do not smell or create a mess either.

► Exterior Sealing and Fortification

Windows, porch cracks, garage doors, sheds, barns, and more need to be inspected to ensure there are no access areas or vulnerable spots. As mentioned before, raccoons have very dexterous paws and can manipulate door handles and pry open windows and more. It is vital to have a professional inspect your home entirely to be sure there are no access points that a raccoon can enter through. If there are, these spots need sealed right away. Included in this inspection are also roof shingles, crawl spaces, attics, and even children’s jungle gyms.

► Environmental Modification

Environmental modification means making changes to your surrounding environment by removing anything that might attract raccoons to your premises, namely food, water, and shelter. For example, do not leave your trash or garbage outside overnight. Raccoons are nocturnal and will smell your trash from a mile away. This is like leaving out a free meal for the local raccoon colony. Always take trash out the morning of garbage pickup day. Also, do not leave pet food dishes outdoors. Raccoons love pet food because it is a protein-rich tasty meal to them. They love it and will remember to come back for it, night after night.

The Common Raccoon: A Keystone Species

The Role of Raccoons in the Ecosystem

Challenges Posed by Raccoons

The Importance of Raccoon Control

Common Signs of a Raccoon Infestation

1. Droppings

2. Damage to Property

3. Noises

In Summary

How to Stop Raccoons From Getting Inside the Attic

What to Look for in a Professional Raccoon Removal Service

Garbage Security

Sealing and Repair

Non-Toxic Repellent

Professional Raccoon Control Service

Stay on Top of Winter Raccoon Control

Common Nuisance Wildlife to Watch Out For This Season and the Next

Squirrels and Chipmunks

Deer

Raccoons

Opossums

All Other Nuisance Animals

How to Protect Your Home Against Wildlife Damages and Threats

Raccoons are a Unique Species

Breeding Seasons

Raccoon Litters

Mothers and Fathers

Top 3 Summertime Nuisance Animals in Indiana

Raccoons

Snakes

Groundhogs

Raccoons are an Omnivorous Species

Inedible Plants are Still Attractive to Raccoons

How to Raccoon-Proof Your Yard

Raccoon Animal Damages

Raccoon Diseases and Parasites

Animal Proofing Against Raccoons

Facts About Ring-Tailed Cats

Appearance

Diet

Behavior

Reproduction

How to Get Rid of Raccoons

Animal Proofing Tips for Raccoon Control:

► Homemade Raccoon Repellent

► Store-Bought Animal Repellent

► Exterior Sealing and Fortification

► Environmental Modification

► Professional Raccoon Control Service