At Grade A Critter, we've seen firsthand the many ways these cunning creatures can turn lives upside down. You might have already had the unfortunate experience of waking up to a scattered lawn, littered with remnants from your garbage cans. Those nimble fingers they possess aren't just for show; they can pry open a surprising variety of containers. And it's not just the unsightly mess they create that should concern you—it's what they bring along with them.

Raccoons Can Cause Many Problems

Raccoons are carriers of diseases, some of which can be seriously detrimental to human health. Rabies is often the first thing that comes to mind, and rightly so. But they also bring along parasites like ticks and fleas. These aren't just a risk to you and your family but extend the peril to your beloved pets as well. Raccoons generally aren't confrontational by nature, but when cornered or frightened, they can become remarkably aggressive. This places your pets at an increased risk, as a provoked raccoon won't hesitate to defend itself.

Ah, but let's not forget the auditory discomfort they can bring into your life. Raccoons are nocturnal creatures. When the sun sets and you're getting ready to enjoy a peaceful night's rest, these animals are just beginning their day. The chittering, scratching, and occasional vocalizations can turn what should be a serene night into a restless ordeal. As they explore your property, they are unashamedly noisy guests. 

Now, you might be tempted to think that a simple do-it-yourself trap could resolve your raccoon problem, but we strongly advise against it. For starters, capturing a raccoon without the proper equipment and training can be a dangerous task. Remember, they are carriers of diseases and can become very aggressive when threatened. Moreover, even if you successfully trap one, you're then faced with the dilemma of where to release it. Many places require a permit to release trapped wildlife.

Raccoon Removal Requires A Professional Touch

Moreover, a DIY approach often doesn't address the root problem—what attracted the raccoon to your property in the first place. Without resolving the root cause, you may find yourself in a never-ending cycle of trapping and releasing. Professional services like Grade A Critter not only ensure the responsible, humane removal of these pests but also help identify and rectify the conditions that attracted them, offering a long-term solution to the problem.

And now, here are some lesser-known facts that might pique your interest. Did you know raccoons have a highly developed sense of touch? Their front paws contain a high number of receptors, which make them extremely sensitive. This heightened sense of touch aids in their nightly scavenging activities. They're also excellent swimmers, although they prefer not to swim. Their dislike for swimming is primarily because their dense underfur is not so great at repelling water, making swimming a heavy endeavor. Yet, their adaptability is astounding, which is why they flourish in diverse habitats, from forests to urban jungles.

If we look at some statistics, it's clear that raccoons are more than just a minor inconvenience. In the United States, they are among the primary wildlife species to be found rabid.  Moreover, the damage they cause to agriculture and property is estimated to run into the millions of dollars annually.

So, if you're experiencing a raccoon issue in North Atlanta, know that you're not alone—and that help is just a phone call away. At Grade A Critter, our team of experienced professionals is fully equipped to handle these nuisances safely and efficiently. We understand the local ecology and use methods that are both effective and humane. Contact us to take care of the problem, so you can get back to enjoying your home, worry-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can the presence of these pests increase the population of other unwanted creatures around my home?

A1: Yes, the presence of these creatures can indeed create a chain reaction that welcomes other undesirable animals into your vicinity. Raccoons rummaging through your garbage or garden are likely to leave behind food scraps, which can attract secondary pests like rats, mice, and even some types of insects. Their digging habits might also expose insect nests, which can proliferate if not properly managed. If these nocturnal creatures are tearing up your lawn or garden, the disturbance may create ideal conditions for other pests to move in. Our service ensures a comprehensive approach to animal control that addresses not only the immediate problem but also mitigates the risk of additional pest invasions.

Q2: Do these animals have any natural predators that can help control their population?

A2: While adult raccoons have fewer natural predators due to their size and adaptability, young raccoons can fall prey to creatures like large owls, hawks, and even coyotes. However, relying on natural predation is not a viable method for controlling the nuisance animal population in urban settings. This is because many of their potential predators are either absent from or less common in residential areas. Even if they were present, it could create another set of challenges, such as the introduction of predatory animals that could also be dangerous to pets and humans. Therefore, professional intervention remains the most effective and safest method for control.

Q3: If I clean my trash cans regularly, will that deter these nuisance animals from coming onto my property?

A3: Regularly cleaning your trash cans can help to some extent but is far from a foolproof solution. These creatures are highly opportunistic and have adapted exceptionally well to human environments. Beyond trash cans, they can forage in gardens, pet food dishes, and even compost piles. A clean trash can may be less appealing, but it won't deter an animal that's already accustomed to foraging in human-occupied spaces. Furthermore, if the critter has already marked your property as a reliable food source, it's likely to return, necessitating professional intervention for effective, long-term control.