Raccoon Management
Managing Spring and Summer Raccoons:
Introduction:
Along with the blooming flowers and longer days, spring and summer bring an increase in wildlife activity, including raccoons. During the summer season, raccoons are birthing and nursing their young, sometimes inside your home. Our job is to understand the behavior of juvenile raccoons, their potential for crawl space insulation damage, and the risks associated with roundworm infestations.
Understanding Juvenile Raccoon Behavior:
Spring marks the season for birthing among raccoons around Truckee and Grass Valley, with litters typically born in April or May. Many homeowners are unaware that female raccoons have already made their home a denning site by late winter. This exploratory behavior can lead them into urban and suburban areas, including crawlspaces and attics, where they may find shelter and sustenance.
Unlike their adult counterparts, juvenile raccoons may lack the caution and experience to avoid human habitats. Their playful antics can result in property damage as they tear through insulation, gnaw on wires, and create nests in secluded spaces. Homeowners may notice signs of their presence, such as droppings, torn insulation, and noises emanating from walls or ceilings. Juvenile raccoons can be very vocal in between feedings
Crawlspace Insulation Damage:
One of the most significant concerns associated with raccoons in spring and summer is the damage they inflict on crawlspace insulation. Raccoons can cause both attic and crawlspace insulation. It is noteworthy that we tend to find raccoons in the crawlspace in Truckee, Tahoe, and Grass Valley far more often than in the attic. Raccoons are notorious for tearing through insulation materials, seeking cozy spots to nest and rear their young. Once inside, they can cause extensive damage to insulation compromising its effectiveness and increasing energy bills for homeowners.
Moreover, raccoons may use insulation materials for nesting purposes, further exacerbating the issue. Their nesting habits not only destroy insulation but also create potential fire hazards as they may come into contact with electrical wiring.
Roundworm Risks:
In addition to property damage, raccoons pose health risks to humans and pets through the transmission of roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis). Raccoon feces can contain roundworm eggs, which, if ingested, can lead to severe health complications, including neurological damage and even death in extreme cases. Roundworm, while rare has has fatal cases in Sacramento and more cases in Northern California
Children, in particular, are at risk of accidental ingestion, as they may come into contact with contaminated soil or objects in outdoor play areas. Pets, too, can be affected if they encounter raccoon feces or contaminated environments.
Conclusion:
As spring and summer bring new life and vitality to our surroundings, it's essential to remain vigilant against potential wildlife intruders like raccoons. Understanding the behavior of juvenile raccoons, their propensity for causing crawlspace insulation damage, and the risks associated with roundworm infestations empowers homeowners to take proactive measures to protect their properties and families.
At Gold Country Wildlife Control, we specialize in humane raccoon removal and exclusion services, helping homeowners mitigate the risks posed by these clever critters. From thorough inspections to customized prevention strategies, we're here to safeguard your home against raccoon intrusion, ensuring peace of mind throughout the seasons.
Don't let raccoons turn your home into theirs. Protect your home against raccoons in the crawlspace by having us seal your foundation vents, screen your gable vents, and remove the raccoons.
