Raccoons may look cute with their masked faces and curious eyes, but don’t be fooled—these nocturnal critters can cause serious trouble if they make their way onto your property. At Critter Control of Columbus, we regularly help homeowners deal with raccoon infestations safely and humanely. Here's what you need to know if you suspect a raccoon problem.
Why Raccoons Are a Problem
Raccoons are incredibly resourceful and intelligent animals. In urban and suburban areas like Columbus, they’re drawn to the abundance of food, shelter, and water. While they’re a natural part of Ohio’s wildlife, problems begin when raccoons:
Raid garbage cans and compost bins
Enter attics, chimneys, or crawlspaces to nest
Tear up insulation and ductwork
Leave behind droppings that can carry diseases like leptospirosis and raccoon roundworm
Become aggressive, especially mothers protecting their young
Raccoons are also known to carry rabies, making close encounters a serious health risk.
Signs You May Have Raccoons
If you notice the following, it’s time to consider a raccoon inspection:
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Loud noises at night—thumping, scratching, or chittering
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Overturned trash cans or scattered garbage
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Tracks or paw prints (resembling small human hands)
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Droppings near sheds, garages, or attics
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Damage to shingles, vents, or soffits
What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Do
Don’t try to handle it yourself. Raccoons can become defensive when cornered or threatened. DIY removal methods often backfire and may even be illegal depending on local wildlife laws.
Here’s what you should do:
Stay Safe and Keep Your Distance
Never try to trap, touch, or feed a raccoon. Avoid letting pets interact with them.
Secure Food Sources
Bring pet food indoors at night, tightly seal garbage bins, and remove bird feeders if needed.
Inspect for Entry Points
Look for damaged soffits, vents, or areas where a raccoon could squeeze in (they can fit through holes as small as 4 inches wide).
Call the Experts
Trained wildlife specialists can assess your property, humanely remove the raccoons, and seal up potential entry points to prevent future problems.
Our Process
Our process at Critter Control of Columbus includes inspection, exclusion, and prevention. We begin with a thorough inspection to identify entry points and damage. We then humanely trap and remove the raccoons, repair damage, and sanitize the area. Finally, we seal entry points and implement long-term prevention to keep raccoons from returning.
Protect Your Home Today
Raccoons don’t belong in your attic or yard, and dealing with them properly is key to keeping your home safe and healthy. If you’ve seen signs of raccoons on your property, don’t wait—contact us today!