The natural habitats of raccoons have been urbanized as a result of the ever-expanding growth of human populations and construction efforts to accommodate those populations. While this has proven detrimental to most species, the raccoon is a highly versatile creation that has a high level of adaptation.

It is common for these creatures to stumble upon domestic and commercial properties. Unfortunately, they may prove to be quite a nuisance. In fact, one of the main reasons why raccoons are attracted to areas where people live, work, and frequent is the presence of food sources – such as trash.

If you are a homeowner that is struggling to keep raccoons out of your trash, continue reading to learn a few creative techniques that will deter the pests.

Evaluate Your Trash Habits

The first step to deterring raccoons away from your trash is to evaluate your habits. What type of can are you using? What type of garbage bags are you using? When are you putting your trash out?

The following offers various ways to avoid a raccoon from rummaging through your garbage and making a mess:

1. First, ensure that you are purchasing strong and highly durable trash bags that help to retain odors from within. For bags full of food products, consider double bagging.
2. Next, purchase trash cans that are designed to keep out pests.
3. You may secure the lids of your outdoor trash cans by either using a bungee cord, some type of weight on top, or a combination of both.
4. Place outdoor trash cans in a secure, tight area that cannot be accessed by raccoons.
5. If possible, avoid placing trash outdoors until the morning of your scheduled trash removal day.

Integrate the Use of a Bright, Motion-Sensor Outdoor Light

Raccoons are – essentially – creatures that prefer complete darkness. If you want to distract them from the area where you keep your trash, install a very bright, motion-sensor light around the area.

When the raccoon ventures into the space, the light will come on and startle them away. While this is not 100% effective, it will definitely help.

Eliminate Water Sources

While raccoons do stalk out areas where food sources are present, they also prefer to wash their food with water and to have it to drink. Ensure that all water sources – such as outdoor ponds, bird bath items, and pet water bowls are inaccessible throughout the night.

Wildlife Removal

Out of all of the strategies that may be used to deter raccoons away from your trash, professional wildlife removal services are the only guaranteed method, in terms of effectiveness. We here at Palmetto Wildlife specialize in raccoon removal in South and North Carolina.

If you have an issue, we have the solution. Why burden yourself with constant cleanups, embarrassing messes, and potential health complications?

Simply contact us today and – by tomorrow – your raccoon problem will be completely eradicated. For more information, simply contact us today by calling: 855-465-1088