Raccoons are known for being intelligent. They are also known for their destructive behavior. Knowing what to do and what not to do when it comes to raccoon repellents and trapping will give you the upper hand. Read this post for tips on how you can stop raccoons from damaging your property.
Dos and Don’ts of Raccoon Repellents
Do use a repellent that repels by taste, scent and touch. Repellents that target three of a raccoon’s highly developed senses are much more effective than those that only target one. Look for repellents that contain products that will irritate the raccoon if it smells, tastes or touches the product. One of the best combinations is oil of black pepper, capsaicin and piperine.
Don’t use a repellent indoors, unless it specifically says it is safe for indoor use. Even if a product is EPA-registered and safe to use around pets and kids, it needs to specifically say it can be used indoors. Typically, liquid spray repellents are for outdoor use only, while granular forms can be used both indoors and out.
Do put repellent around your trashcans, even if they haven’t yet been ransacked. If you’ve got raccoon damage in your backyard, it’s only a matter of time before they locate your garbage cans on trash day. Save yourself the hassle of picking up a bunch of garbage. Apply a raccoon repellent around your trashcan. Granular works for creating a barrier of protection around your garbage. Liquid works well for spraying directly on the bags.
Don’t buy a raccoon repellent that isn’t long-lasting. It’s a waste of time and money. There are raccoon repellents that will last up to 30 days. There are even some products that are rain-resistant. Be sure to check the repellent for how often it suggests reapplication.
Do choose a raccoon repellent that is organic. Even if you’re not using it on a garden, organic products mean products free of chemicals. Why risk it with traditional chemical-based repellents when you can get effective protection without the use of chemicals?
Don’t assume a raccoon repellent is organic just because it looks “green”. Thanks to clever marketing, products can look earth-friendly without being organic. To ensure the product you buy is actually organic, look for the OMRI logo, which means it’s been reviewed and approved for use in organic gardening.
Dos and Don’ts of Using a Raccoon Trap
Don’t trap first and then figure out what to do with the animal after. Always have a plan in place, before you set your trap. Check with local and state laws in your area on trapping wild animals. Locate a destination for releasing the animal. The last thing you want to do is drive around looking for a suitable place to let it go.
Do get a trap that is easy-to-use. Some raccoon trap models can be set and released with one hand. Ideally, the trap you buy should be simple to set up, offer a barrier between your hand and the animal and be easy to release.
Don’t leave a raccoon in the trap for long. You should check your trap regularly, at least twice a day. Keeping a raccoon in a trap is dangerous and inhumane.
About the author: Michelle Anderson is a guest blogger who likes to write about animal control, including raccoon repellent and armadillo traps.