Raccoon Dining Habits: Exploring Their Varied Appetites and Trash Can Tactics

Are your trash cans becoming a buffet for local raccoons? Raccoons are common in residential areas, especially in North America, and are notorious for tipping over trash cans and making a mess. In fact, one of the most common sources of human-raccoon interaction is over food scraps. But what do raccoons eat, and how can you keep them out of your garbage?

Knowing what to expect from raccoons who are comfortable in residential areas can save you time, trouble, and cleanup. In this blog post, we will explore the common food sources for raccoons and provide some helpful tips for keeping them away from your property.

What Do Raccoons Eat? And How Can You Keep Them Out of Your Trash Cans

Raccoons are omnivores and will eat just about anything, from insects, fruits, and nuts to small rodents and other wildlife. However, their favorite food sources are human-made, specifically garbage and pet food. They are intelligent creatures and have adapted well to living in and around residential areas, making their primary food sources easily accessible.

Apart from garbage and pet food, raccoons will also eat bird eggs, worms, frogs, and small mammals. They are experts at hunting and foraging for food and will climb trees, dig through gardens, and even open doors and lids to find their next meal! Additionally, raccoons are opportunistic eaters and will not hesitate to eat whatever is available to them, including insects, fish, and even carrion.

Why Should I Be Wary of Raccoons?

While raccoons may seem harmless, they can carry various diseases, including rabies, and can cause damage to property. Therefore, it is essential to take measures to keep them out of your garbage and away from your home. Some effective methods include securing your trash cans with tight-fitting lids, keeping pet food indoors, and sealing any possible entry points or gaps in your home.

The Best Raccoon Defense is a Good Offense

Another strategy to deter raccoons is making your property less inviting. Remove any potential food sources, such as fallen fruit, close garage doors and windows, and use motion-activated lights or sprinklers to ensure that you aren’t inadvertently creating a raccoon wonderland. Additionally, raccoons are naturally afraid of noises and odors that signal danger, so placing a radio near your trash cans or spraying vinegar or ammonia around the perimeter of your home can help keep them away.

Trust the Experts for Raccoon Defense

Raccoons are fascinating creatures that are a common sight in many residential areas. While they are notorious for making a mess of trash cans, they are opportunistic eaters that will consume a variety of food sources. To keep raccoons away from your property, securing your garbage cans, removing any potential food sources, and sealing any possible entry points into your home is essential. By taking these steps, you can enjoy the presence of wildlife while keeping your property and family safe.

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