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Raccoons on Construction Sites and in Unfinished Buildings
Written by: Dan Frankian
Construction sites and partially completed buildings are high-risk targets for raccoons in the GTA, especially when cold weather hits. While tool storage areas and unused structures or equipment provide shelter, protection, and warmth, construction materials like insulation easily double as den linings. Food scraps and trash add to the attraction of construction sites.
Such infestations pose serious health and safety risks, compromise materials and the structural integrity of building projects, halt inspections, and create legal liability for construction companies, property owners, and developers. Of course, nearby residents will often notice a stark increase in raccoon sightings in their own backyards.
Why Unfinished Construction Sites Attract Raccoons
Construction sites are generally quiet and free of activity during the hours between dusk and dawn - and this is precisely when raccoons are most active. Here are some other considerations:
The Perfect Microclimate In a newly constructed building, a roof structure is often finished long before the interior walls are sealed. This creates a large, enclosed space that traps residual heat from the concrete foundation and shields the entire area from wind, offering a safe, dry "micro-climate" that’s perfect for winter torpor.
Abundant Nesting Material for Raccoon Nesting Sites Readily available materials including loose insulation, cardboard packaging, plastic sheeting, and discarded fabric are all utilized by raccoons to create insulated winter dens.
Ease of Access Unlike finished buildings, construction sites are rarely fully sealed. Raccoons exploit:
Uncovered elevator and utility shafts.
Missing windows/doors (covered only by poly sheeting).
Open joists and wall cavities.
Unfinished roofing/venting penetrations.
Unsealed vents, ducts, or chimneys.
Gaps in temporary fencing or plywood barriers.
Damaged tarps, scaffolding openings, or roof gaps.
Open basement or utility access points.
Raccoon Removal in Unfinished Buildings & Construction Sites: The Cascading Costs and Liability Risks
Financial Impact (Project Delays)
The discovery of wildlife can halt all work in that section of the site until animals and biohazards are cleared. This leads to costly project delays, wasted labour time, and potentially missing milestone deadlines.
Compromised Materials & Structure
Insulation & Drywall Urine, feces, and trampling/scratching damage destroy insulation (requiring costly replacement) and stain unfinished drywall or wood.
Chewed Wiring Raccoons chew on low-voltage wires and exposed electrical conduits, leading to faults that must be traced and rewired by licensed electricians before walls are sealed. If left unchecked, this can lead to fires.
Adjacent Property Risk (The Spread)
Raccoons often use vacant building as a hub. They commute to nearby finished properties (e.g., adjacent homes or neighbouring businesses) for food, increasing conflict within the community and drawing negative attention to the ongoing construction project.
Migration Effect: Once construction is completed, raccoons may move to nearby homes, offices, or condos.
Cross-Infestation Risk: Neighbouring buildings face increased intrusion pressure.
Garbage Attraction: Improper waste management at construction sites draws raccoons into the area, spreading problems to surrounding neighborhoods.
Raccoons are opportunistic nocturnal feeders that prefer low-effort and widely available food sources. That's why we see such a widespread increase in urban raccoon population, particularly during the winter months.
Commercial food storage areas are at a higher risk of raccoon infestations because of the availability and easy access to large quantities of food. While raccoons pose a number of issues in any urban setting, the consequences at food storage facilities are greatly multiplied. Such consequences include product contamination, health hazards, property damage, and legal liabilities.
Once a raccoon infestation is suspected or confirmed, it is vital to call in a professional, licensed commercial raccoon removal service for immediate and permanent results.
FAQs: Raccoons in Food Storage Areas
Q: Will the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) fine us if they find raccoon droppings?
A: Indeed, raccoon droppings are a serious sanitation issue, evidence of failure in a company's pest control measures and subject to fines and other penalties. Here's what the Government of Canada states on this issue: "When businesses fail to comply with their obligations under the Safe Food for Canadians Act and the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations with respect to ensuring the safety of food, the CFIA has several enforcement tools at its disposal such as monetary penalties and suspending or cancellation of licences."
Q: Does the presence of a raccoon mean we have to stop operations?
A: Not necessarily, but a full shut down is a possibility. Immediate action is required. Contact a professional wildlife removal service at once. Depending on the area of infestation and product damage, you may need to shut down part of your operations or will have to put in place expanded quality control measures.
Q: Can raccoons nest inside pallets or storage containers?
A: Yes, raccoons can turn any dark and quiet crevasse into a den. Areas with little human traffic are most at risk.
Q: How can raccoons affect refrigerated or frozen stock?
A: Raccoons are notorious for chewing wires. Your refrigeration units may be at risk of malfunction or even become a fire hazard.
Q: What material should we use to seal entry points to prevent chewing?
A: Heavy-duty hardware cloth or other wire mesh should be used in addition to (over or under) the original building materials. Always contact a professional contractor for repairs.
Q: Are there early warning signs unique to commercial facilities compared to residential properties?
A: The warning signs of raccoon presence are universal. They include scratching or thumping noises, foul and musky odours, feces, and raccoon tracks (paw prints).
Q: Can raccoons access multiple floors or storage zones in a large facility?
A: Raccoons can absolutely gain access to an entire building in no time at all. They are avid climbers and surprisingly nimble, given their size.
Q: We use bulk raw materials (grains, feed). Are raccoons attracted to clean, sealed bags?
A: It isn't the bags that attract raccoons... it's their content. Raccoons have an extremely well-developed sense of smell and grains are a welcome addition to their diet.
Q: What safety precautions should staff take if raccoons are discovered?
A: If raccoon feces has been discovered, do not touch! Call a professional raccoon control company such as Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control to remove the animals and latrine(s). Until their arrival, it is advisable to use PPE including masks and gloves.
Q: Are baby raccoons common in commercial storage areas?
A: Yes, commercial storage areas offer ample space and often privacy to new or expectant mothers. You may hear distinct cooing or crying sounds, especially at nighttime.
How often should commercial facilities inspect for raccoon activity?
A: Commercial facilities should be inspected on a monthly basis. Staff should also be encouraged to report any signs or unusual noises as soon as they notice them.
Q: How much does permanent raccoon removal cost for commercial properties in the GTA?
A: Rates for permanent raccoon removal in commercial settings will vary and depend on the number of traps and number of visits by a technician needed. Services start at $225.
Q: What long-term monitoring is recommended after professional removal?
A: After raccoons have been removed from the area and all repairs have been completed, it is important to reduce any spillage or waste so as not to attract other animals. Doors should be kept closed whenever possible and monthly inspections should follow.
Many homeowners and property managers set up bird feeders to attract songbirds, especially during colder months. Unfortunately, bird feeders are also a major attractant for raccoons—intelligent, nocturnal, opportunistic, and highly adaptable animals.
As temperatures drop, raccoons seek easy food sources, and bird feeders are one of their top winter targets. Let's explore what you can do to get rid of raccoons and keep them out of your feeders in the future. Keep in mind that DIY deterrents and gadgets are rarely all that effective, but Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control offers legal and permanent raccoon removal services in the GTA.
Why Raccoons Are Attracted to Bird Feeders
Food Availability Spilled seeds and suet provide the high-calorie nutrition that raccoons need to survive the winter. Both black-oil and striped sunflower seeds are among their favorites. On that note, you might also fin squirrel and skunk visitors around your bird feeder.
Easy Access Raccoons are agile climbers and can easily reach most bird feeders, poles, or decks.
Nighttime Feeding Unlike birds, raccoons are active at night, so there's no competition around the feeder and the mess you find in the morning may well signal a raccoon visit.
Smell and Habits Raccoons have an excellent sense of smell that can lead them to your bird feeder. And once they find a reliable food source, they keep returning.
How Raccoons Cause Problems Around Bird Feeders
Damage:
Bending poles, breaking feeders, and tearing mounts.
Damaging nearby deck railings or roof gutters while climbing.
Health risks:
Droppings on patios and decks contain roundworm and other pathogens.
Risk of contamination near outdoor furniture and children’s play areas.
Secondary infestation risks:
Raccoons attracted to feeders often explore nearby attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces for shelter.
Bird feeders act as “gateway attractants” leading to full property infestations.
Recognizing Raccoon Activity Around Your Bird Feeder
Feeder emptied overnight.
Tracks or muddy paw prints on decks or railings.
Torn suet cages or feeder poles bent.
Scattered seeds and droppings under the feeder.
Noises at night near decks or walls.
Pro Tip: Inspect your feeders early in the morning for signs of nocturnal visitors.
Raccoons have adapted exceptionally well to city environments like Toronto and other communities in the GTA, where vertical living and dense housing provide endless climbing opportunities. Balconies, terraces, and rooftop patios become attractive nesting and feeding areas during both warm and cold months.
Raccoons invading outdoor living spaces is a problem for all sorts of property types:
Residential Homes Side or rear balconies near trees or fences are an easy target.
Apartments/Condos Raccoons access mid-rise to high-rise balconies via drainpipes or cables.
Commercial Properties Outdoor dining patios, restaurant terraces, and hotel balconies also see an increased number of raccoon visitors.
Why Raccoons Choose Balconies for Nesting
Elevated Security
The height of a balcony provides protection from natural predators like coyotes or dogs, as well and rivals. Raccoons feel secure enough to rest and, critically, to give birth.
Access Routes
Nearby Trees/Vines Raccoons are avid climbers and frequently use overhanging branches as bridges and ladders. This issue is most common for low-rise buildings.
Downspouts and Railings Raccoons have learned to climb vertical elements like gutters, downspouts, or fire escapes to reach higher ground.
Adjoining Roofs Being smart and agile little acrobats, raccoons can also jump from adjacent rooflines or lower balconies.
Where Raccoons Hide or Nest on Balconies
Behind furniture, especially if covered, during the off-season.
In storage bins or patio boxes that are insulated and dark — perfect for dens.
Under barbeques or outdoor heaters: radiating warmth attracts them.
In planters, hanging baskets, or between vertical garden frames.
In covered balcony ceilings or drainage cavities.
On shared ledges or connecting parapets between balconies of adjacent apartments.
Rooftop HVAC units, exhaust vents, and exposed AC ductwork are irresistible shelters for raccoons, not just in winter, but throughout the year, offering shade, water, or shelter for nesting. This is a critical issue for both commercial tenants and homeowners, with raccoons in HVAC units and AC ducts causing business interruptions, increased energy costs, and serious health concerns.
The types of properties affected by raccoons in rooftop ventilation units include residential homes, apartments, multi-unit buildings, offices, retail, and industrial facilities.
Why Raccoons Select HVAC and AC Ductwork
The Perfect Shelter With HVAC/AC units mimicking a hollow tree, they offer a rare combination of warmth during the winter months), shade and insulation in hot summer temperatures, and security from predators.
The "AC Duct"-Highway Raccoons take advantage of flexible ductwork, ventilation shafts, and exposed piping to move undetected into the unit's base or, critically, into the building's air supply system.
Common Entry Points (Specific to Modern/Older Systems):
Unsealed Conduit/Pipe Penetrations Gaps where refrigerant lines or electrical conduits enter the unit base or roof can be exploited.
Loose Access Panels Panels or hatches on the rooftop unit (RTU) that are degraded, unlatched, or only lightly screwed down can provide easy access.
Damaged Intake/Exhaust Vents Raccoons can pull back or chew through plastic or thin metal grates covering air vents on commercial roofs or residential wall/soffit units.
Condensate Drains Seeking water, raccoons damage drain lines or pans.
Signs of Raccoon Infestation in HVAC Units or Ducts
Unusual scratching or thumping noises inside units or ducts;
Strong musky odour from feces or urine;
Visible damage to wires, insulation, or duct seams;
Reduced airflow or sudden system malfunction;
Nighttime rooftop activity or tracks in snow near units;
Residential-specific signs: attic or basement vents showing raccoon droppings or damage.
Ongoing Training and QAWB Certification for Wildlife Biologists
Written by: Dan Frankian
Hawkeye's own Dan Frankian holds many titles and certifications - among them is being a certified Wildlife Biologist. Dan recently attended a 3-day event in Jacksonville, Florida which dealt with refreshing and expanding the knowledge and skills of wildlife biologists and an FAA-Approved 24-Hour QAWB Training course. Over the course of this event, Dan not only attended as a participant but also as a subject matter expert.
The agenda included in-depth coverage of aviation safety regulations, applicable wildlife laws, airport operations, and the FAA’s National Wildlife Strike Database, the completion of a capstone class project, field training, and essential tools and resources to support our ongoing work in the aviation industry. Ongoing comprehensive, FAA-compliant training is essential to support safe airport operations and effective wildlife management.
Wildlife Hazard Management and Training
Wildlife Hazard Assessment
A wildlife hazard management plan is preceded by a 3-4 day inspection, a one year long hazard assessment plan for all four seasons, and continuous monitoring the airport for 3-4 days in a row several times a year. It requires identifying areas of concern including local wildlife such as coyote, deer, birds of prey, cranes, etc.), note the largest birds in area and how many birdstrikes were reported in the previous year. Large birds such as sandhill cranes, pelicans, bald eagles, or vultures are most dangerous to aircraft if a bird strike occurrs.
Environmental Assessment
An environmental assessment considers seasonal and daytime vs. night time solutions. It also involves SNARGE - this is the examination of bird strike aftermath (particulates, carcasses, or smears) and DNA tests performed by the Smithsonian Institue in Washington, D.C. The goal is to determine what type of bird was involved in a bird strike and why it may have been in the area at the time.
Wildlife Hazard Management Plan
A management plan will include practical modifications (such as wiring, draining of swamp, etc.) in cooperation with various agencies including , U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, USDA Department of Agriculture, FFWS Florida Fish and Wildlife.
Environmental Resources Permitting Wetlands and Wildlife
Dealing with wildlife in Wetlands and habitat modification when wetlands are involvdd requires separate and/or additional permits. In the U.S., wetlands modification is primarily overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Decisions on how much water can be redirectd or removed must be approved by those agencies. Modifications to wetlands are sometimes necessary to mitigate the risk of flooding.
Managing Airport Drainage Drainage is one of the biggest problems facing airports and requires frequent inspection of ditches and drainage systems. Changes to ditches and neighbouring wetlands often affect airport fencing and nearby flora and fauna.
Flora and Fauna It is important to know how much flora and fauna is safe and acceptable around airports in relation to how much and what type of wildlife is present. Aviation safety greatly relies on correct assessments of surrounding wildlife, its distance from the center of a runway, and the conditions which may encourage or discourage wildlife to encroach on airport property.
Airport Specific Habitat Considerations Grassy areas play a huge role with wildlife at airports. Grass must be kept short enough to not obscure wildlife and allow animals near runways undetected but not so short that it may attract geese or allow birds of prey to observe rodents on the ground and dive down. The recommended height of grass near runways is 9 inches.
Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable, so exterior fire escapes provide them with a unique opportunity to access higher floors of buildings. This creates a significant nuisance, potential for property damage, and a safety risk for tenants, customers, or employees.
Why Raccoons are Drawn to Fire Escapes
Fire escapes provide elevated, safe, and semi-sheltered areas or raccoons.
They allow easy access to upper windows, balconies, or rooftops, so raccoons climbing fire escapes is not an uncommon sight in the city.
Fire escapes often contain items like plants, furniture, or garbage bags which may attract raccoons looking for food.
The metal structure of fire escapes retains warmth from building walls.
Fire escapes in industrial and commercial areas are often located near dumpsters, kitchens, or loading docks and also offer the allure of food .
Challenges of Raccoon Infestations on Fire Escapes
Aside from probably scaring the bejeezus out of you, if a raccoon should show up outside your 3rd floor window, what are the challenges when dealing with raccoons on fire escapes and why should you let professionals handle the task?
Safety Hazards
Raccoons blocking emergency exits can create real risks and violate fire codes.
Aggressive Behaviour
Raccoons cornered on narrow fire escapes become defensive and aggressive.
Accessibility
Of course, the best arguments for seeking out a wildlife removal professional are the height and tight spaces on fire escapes - DIY removal in this environment is dangerous.
Recurring Visits
Once a raccoon claims a fire escape, it often uses it as a route to access roofs, vents, windows, or other hidden access points.
Public Visibility
In apartment buildings, raccoons on fire escapes can cause tenant panic, social media complaints, and landlord liability. All this will inevitably lead to a loss of reputation.
Raccoons tearing up a new or well-kept lawn is a common and frustrating problem for urban and suburban property owners. Many people are shocked at the level of damage these seemingly cute animals can cause.
This is not just a nuisance but a recurring, expensive, and year-round problem. Thankfully, raccoon removal in Toronto and other areas of the GTA can solve the problem.This article will explain why raccoons target lawns, the signs of their activity, and a permanent, year-round solution to protect your property.
Q: How can I tell if lawn damage is from raccoons or skunks?
A: The most obvious sign of lawn damage will be the amount of damage in terms of area. Raccoons leave large sections of turf torn up or flipped over and widespread patches of exposed soil. Skunks typically leave behind numerous smaller, neat, cone-shaped holes dug in a search for grubs. Both have strong claws and can create a considerable mess, but raccoons use their claws in a ripping motion to pull up large chunks of grass, while skunks use their noses and claws to make many small, more precise holes.
Q: Why do raccoons dig up lawns?
A: The primary reason for tearing up lawns is to get at the grubs that live beneath the surface. Torn up patches of grass near fence lines or foundations can also be an attempt at burrowing under to get access to whatever lays on the other side.
Q: Do raccoons only damage new sod, or do they wreck established lawns, too?
A: While raccoons destroying new sod is a big problem, they can absolutely do a number on established lawns, too. In fact, well established backyards probably offer more variety in terms of grubs and bugs.
Q: Can I get rid of the grubs and raccoons at the same time?
A: Probably not, but reducing the number of grubs in your yard will help make the area less attractive to raccoons. Generally, grubs are only one reason why raccoons frequent your property. Waste bins, vegetable gardens, and orchards also play a big role.
Q: Can grub treatment alone solve raccoon lawn damage?
A: Again, simply reducing the number of grubs will likely not solve your raccoon problem. Removing other elements that attract raccoons and/or physically removing the animals is a much better strategy.
Q: Do raccoons carry diseases that can affect my lawn or garden?
A: Raccoon diseases and parasites pose a threat to your family and pets. Your lawns or gardens are not directly affected, but may help spread those diseases.
Q: Can raccoons damage artificial turf or golf course lawns?
A: Indeed, raccoons do plenty of damage on both artificial turf and on golf courses. The surface material or location really doesn't matter if tasty grubs live beneath. Check out our article on how to get rid of raccoons from golf courses.
Q: What’s the best way to protect a newly seeded lawn from raccoons?
A: Ideally, you would have applied a grub treatment even before laying down new sod or seed. And of course, you'll want to remove as many things as possible that may attract raccoons to your yard. Such things include pet food bowls, any standing water (including bird baths), trash cans, fallen fruit from trees, and more.
Q: Can raccoons ruin sprinkler systems or lawn irrigation while digging?
A: Yes, and actually, this is a fairly frequent occurrence.
Q: Do yard guards or ultrasonic devices really keep raccoons off lawns?
A: Repellents such as ultrasonic devices have very limited efficacy. Raccoons are intelligent, resourceful, and determined and quickly learn that ultrasonic devices pose no physical threat and can safely be ignored.
Q: Will getting a dog keep raccoons from tearing up my lawn?
A: A dog in your yard can help keep raccoons at bay in general. Keep in mind, though, that raccoons are mostly nocturnal and the scent of your dog alone may not be sufficient to stop raccoons from viewing your lawn as a buffet.
Q: Is it safe to be on my lawn with raccoons present?
A: It is unlikely that raccoons will dig up your lawn with you present. Again, raccoons are nocturnal and you probably won't be out there all night, but more importantly, all forms of wildlife (including raccoons) typically avoid human contact.
Q: When is the best time of year to fix this problem?
A: It's a good idea to start with grub treatment in May and June to kill newly hatched grubs but active infections will require you to apply multiple treatments all the way through the summer and fall.
Q: What is the typical cost for racoon removal for lawns?
Removing raccoons from lawns is no different than dealing with them anywhere else. The cost depends on how many raccoons have invaded your yard and how many visits from a wildlife removal technician it takes. You can learn more here: https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-much-does-raccoon-removal-cost-in-toronto
Q: Do I need to be present for raccoon removal service?
A: In an outdoor situation such as your backyard, you do not necessarily need to be present when traps are set. You must, however, be available to check the traps daily and inform the wildlife technician immediately when an animal is in the trap.
Q: How long after raccoon removal should I wait before repairing my lawn?
A: You may repair damages to your lawn immediately once raccoons have been removed from your property. Keep in mind that a relocated raccoon will return with a high degree of certainty. Permanent raccoon removal is the only way to ensure the captured animal will not return.
Raccoon Infestations in Abandoned or Vacant Properties
Written by: Dan Frankian
With a declining economy, we see many empty apartments or entire buildings in Toronto and the GTA, some residential but more often commercial. Of course, an abandoned property makes for the perfect home for raccoons and other wildlife.
As temperatures drop, these buildings become irresistible targets for raccoons seeking a warm, secure den to survive the cold. A property may look empty from the outside, but it can quickly become a thriving, hidden home for a family of raccoons, leading to a host of complex problems. And because of the very fact that these properties are vacant, raccoon and other wildlife infestations go unnoticed much longer, giving the animals plenty of time to establish dominance and territory.
FAQs for Owners of Vacant Properties
Q: I'm not in the area; can you still help?
A: Yes, absolutely. You do not need to be present for a Hawkeye technician to remove raccoons from your property. You will, however, need to have someone to check on traps twice daily (minimum) and contact us if a raccoon has been caught.
Q: What if there are baby raccoons in my vacant property?
A: Raccoons only have kits once a year - in the spring. The most important thing is to not separate a mother from her offspring. You MUST be able to capture and move all raccoons together.
Q: How long can a raccoon live in a vacant property unnoticed?
A: Raccoons can live in vacant buildings for as long as nobody is paying attention. During the pandemic lockdowns, reduced or non-existent human traffic and oversight caused huge issues which carry fall-out until today.
Q: What if I need to sell or rent the property?
A: If you spot signs such as raccoon droppings in an empty house, call a professional to remove the animals, repair the damages, and sanitize the den and latrine area.
Q: Is it illegal to leave a property vacant with a raccoon problem?
A: While it might not be explicitly illegal, allowing a raccoon problem on a vacant property in Ontario can lead to significant legal and financial consequences under municipal by-laws and property standards. If a raccoon infestation poses health or safety hazards or causes damages to neighbouring properties, the property owner could face orders to resolve the issue, fines of up to $50,000, and costs for municipal cleanup work. This may vary by municipality.
As temperatures drop and winter appears on the horizon, raccoons seek warm, sheltered spaces to den for the winter. Roof vents are a common and often vulnerable entry point for these animals into attics, creating a significant and urgent problem for both homeowners and commercial property managers in the GTA. Raccoons are masters at exploiting weak points in a building's exterior, and a plastic or flimsy metal vent is an easy target for their strength, dexterity, and determination. So, whether you think you might have a raccoon in your HVAC vent or any other type of roof vent, you shouldn’t wait to get to the root of the problem.
FAQs - Raccoon Control and Removal from Roof Vents
This article will provide a comprehensive guide on identifying a raccoon infestation in your roof vents, the specific risks involved, why common raccoon removal methods fail, and how our specialized service offers a permanent solution.
Q: How do I get rid of a raccoon in my roof vent quickly?
A: You will have to trap the raccoon(s). Consider involving a professional to determine the best location and type of trap to capture the animal quickly.
Q: Are raccoons in roof vents dangerous to my family, pets, or staff?
A: Yes, they definitely are. Roof vents are merely a short cut to your attic where the animals intend to den for the winter. Raccoons in your attic lead to structural damage of your home or commercial building and a great number of health risks for occupants. Learn more about the dangers of raccoons in attics here »
Q: Can I block or seal a roof vent while raccoons are inside?
A: No, you don't want to do that. You'll bee much better off installing a one-way door or setting the appropriate trap to capture and remove the raccoon(s).
Q: Do raccoons come back if relocated from roof vents in winter?
A: Unfortunately, raccoons almost always return after relocation. Your attic, your yard, and the immediately surrounding areas are now its home territory and the animal will return to where it has food security and feels safe.
Q: How can I raccoon-proof my roof vents permanently?
A: Robust ;vent caps will work wonders but there is no one-and-done solution. Examining your roof and addressing potential weak points will be an ongoing task. We suggest scheduled inspections of your roof and siding at least twice a year (fall and spring).
Q: What happens if a raccoon dies inside a roof vent?
A: It is highly unlikely that a raccoon will build a nest inside your vent. It is much more likely that the vent simply provides access to the attic space, where a raccoon den can be established. That’s why raccoon prevention for vents is a crucial part of the process.
Q: How can I tell if I have a raccoon?
A: The most obvious signs inside your home will be unusual noises or activity (particularly at night) and strong musky odours. Check your attic for pulled or displaced insulation, nesting materials, and disturbed wiring. On the outside of your home, look for torn or ripped up roofing materials or siding, as well as droppings on the ground.
Q: What if there are baby raccoons in my roof vent?
A: Again, it's highly unlikely that animals are actually spending much time in your vents. However, you may well have a den with raccoon kits in your attic. Here too, you best contact an experienced wildlife removal company such as Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control to ensure that ALL animals can be removed at the same time. You absolutely do not want to trap the mother and leave behind helpless babies. Unless the den is in plain sight, you will have to go on a search mission. For example, if the den is behind a wall, we'll need to locate the kits with thermal imaging devices and then cut the drywall to remove the animals as well as all nesting materials. This type of raccoon removal is best left to professionals.
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Raccoon Removal in Unfinished Buildings & Construction Sites: The Cascading Costs and Liability Risks
