Raccoon removal from attics is the most common request that we receive. Since attics are a large space, they can accommodate large populations of raccoons in the winter months. Thus the attic is where we commonly find the most damage from raccoons chewing on cables, electrical wires (fire risk), PVC water lines (water damage risk), heating and cooling ductwork, and items stored in attics.

In our years of providing raccoon removal services we have found areas where the raccoons have used their teeth and claws to tear holes thru the shingles and wood underlayment of the roof, holes thru the siding and underlayment of the wall, attic vents, gable vents, soffit, fascia, and gutters causing hundreds to thousands of dollars in damage to buildings.

Raccoons in the wilderness build their dens up high in the holes of trees. But in populated areas you may find raccoons any number of places. Raccoons have found attics to be a good place to den up for winter enjoying the warmth and protection of the building. And attic insulation is great bedding material for the female raccoons giving birth to their young in the spring. Other hiding spots for dens can be underneath home decks, chimneys, walls, woodpiles, and other buildings on the property.

They can leave large amounts of feces, urine, hair, body oil, food, and nesting material. These remnants can attract insects like cockroaches. You might experience odor problems from the waste. Urine can stain sheetrock and wood. Mold can grow on the feces. Some types of mold can potentially cause health problems. Sometimes the feces and urine themselves can carry diseases.

Call Trapper Joe's For Immediate Raccoon Removal Service.

(219) 707-3666

Hazards Associated with Raccoons

Rabies virus can be transmitted to humans and animals if they are bitten or scratched by a rabid raccoon, and, recent data suggests, transmission can occur from minor seemingly unimportant physical contact or unrecognized bites. In all instances of potential human exposures involving raccoons, the raccoon in question should be safely collected, if possible, and submitted for rabies diagnosis. Rabies postexposure prophylaxis is recommended for all persons with bite, scratch, or mucous membrane exposure, unless the animal is available for testing and is negative for evidence of rabies.”

Raccoons should not be approached under any circumstances.Please call a wildlife professional to remove them.

Lyme disease and other tick-borne or flea-borne diseases: squirrels often carry ticks and/or fleas with them. Ticks and fleas can migrate to the interior of the building.

Leptospirosis: a bacterial infection that is often transmitted through urine and secretions. Exposure of these excretions to open wounds or orally ingested can cause infection in humans.

Other Diseases: other bacterial diseases ( such as Salmonella or E. Coli), fungus, and rare parasites can also be a risk for illness in humans.

For more information on raccoons and their diseases please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.