The Raccoons In Western Massachusetts Can Be A Real Menace

Raccoons have made a name for themselves across the internet for their mischievous ways and hand-like dexterity. They can be funny, interesting creatures, which might lead some to underestimate how dangerous they are as wild animals in a domestic setting.

Even without the complication of rabies, raccoons are problematic creatures that can cause mayhem in neighborhoods where food and water are not properly stored. Because of their dangers, but also because of their assets to our ecosystem, Massachusetts has a wildlife management system in place.

Keep reading to learn more about the problems raccoons can cause in Western Massachusetts, including the dangers they may pose to pets and homes.

Why Are Raccoons Dangerous?

The primary reason raccoons are dangerous is because of their likelihood to have and transmit the rabies virus. In the United States overall, 30% of reported rabies cases were spread by raccoons. While the likelihood of encountering a raccoon with rabies in Massachusetts is low, wildlife trapping should be done by a professional to prevent the possibility of rabies transmission or attack by the rabid animal.

Even in raccoons that are not infected with rabies, the spread of disease is a dangerous possibility. For unvaccinated pets, canine distemper is a life-threatening condition that has a 50% mortality rate. In addition, raccoons are carriers of roundworm, which they can transmit even after they’ve left a human habitation, as the eggs that are capable of becoming airborne. If you fear that raccoons occupied a building, do not handle the cleaning or excavation yourself. Trust a wildlife expert to perform any further wildlife control services and advise on safe cleaning procedures.

Finally, raccoons are highly intelligent animals with near-human dexterity. Trash can lids, door latches, doors, windows, and cabinets are inconsequential to a hungry raccoon. While they are unlikely to be aggressive unless infected with rabies, they may hiss or lunge if confronted. Having a hissing, scared raccoon in or near your house is obviously a safety risk.

Proper wildlife management techniques can keep neighborhoods safe while protecting the animals. As raccoons are a furbearer species in Massachusetts, they are protected outside of hunting season. As for wildlife trapping, only licensed trappers can conduct wildlife control services through trapping.

Can Raccoons Break A Window Screen?

Keeping in mind how smart, dexterous, and determined a raccoon is, you can probably guess that a window screen is no match for them if they decide to gain entry to a home. Yes, raccoons can break window screens.

Window screens are one thing, but did you know raccoons can open locks? In a study on raccoon intelligence, experts found that they could open 11 out of 13 different locks and retain this knowledge for upwards of a year afterward. Their intelligence is more evidence of the need to use a wildlife expert for wildlife removal.

Are Raccoons Harmful To House Cats?

While the likelihood is low that a raccoon might attack a house cat, it is possible. Raccoons are primarily scavengers, foraging off of pre-deceased carcasses or human foods. A cat is likely to put up much more of a fight than a raccoon desires. A kitten might be a more likely target.

The bigger concern for house cats is the transmission of disease, especially since raccoons love to eat cat food and may loiter around outdoor house cats. Raccoon disease is the greatest threat, as it is almost always fatal in kittens.

How Do I Keep Raccoons Away From My Backyard Windows?

Keeping raccoons out of your home is obviously the primary concern, and since windows are no obstacle, the next best thing is to prevent private access through your backyard. To keep raccoons out of your yard and away from your windows, try these techniques:

• Install and maintain a high fence.
• Cut back any branches that lead over the fence or give easy roof access.
• Close off your garden or get rid of it entirely.
• Don’t leave pet food outside.
• Cover water sources and repair any cause for excess moisture.
• Cover and lock your garbage cans, and store them away from your home.
• Cover up safe and easy nesting sights like under decks.

If you do happen to pick up a raccoon or two in your backyard, don’t hesitate to call American Pest Solutions for professional wildlife removal services. Our attention to the environmental impact of pest control means that we intend to keep the animals safe as well as the people in our community.

While wildlife trapping is restricted to licensed professionals in Massachusetts, that doesn’t mean you have to shell out a pretty penny to have it done. For wildlife removal, you can trust American Pest solutions to conduct professional wildlife removal safely and quickly. Call American Pest Solutions today for wildlife assistance.