University of Wisconsin - Extension

It's not hard to control the "masked" bandits that raid campgrounds, trash containers, gardens and bird feeders. But, it does require persistence and the proper technique.

"Damage and nuisance situations often arise when raccoons upset trash containers or take up residence in chimneys, attics and other places where they are unwanted," says Scott Craven, University of Wisconsin-Madison/Extension wildlife specialist.

"In rural settings, raccoons may raid crops or poultry, reduce waterfowl and pheasant nesting success by destroying eggs, or cause damage when they enter unoccupied trailers, cottages and second homes," Craven continues.

"In campgrounds, raccoons can be a constant source of aggravation when they raid coolers, tents and picnic tables." One of the most simple and successful methods of relieving raccoon problems is removing the food. A second alternative is to relocate or destroy raccoons that are causing damage.

"Private landowners, including urban home owners, can legally trap or hunt raccoons year-round, except for a short period during the gun-deer season," Craven adds. He suggests people call a local Department of Natural Resources conservation warden to find out about current regulations before attempting to destroy nuisance raccoons or any other wildlife.

Raccoons taking up residence in a chimney or attic must first be removed, then kept out by eliminating their access. From a chimney, noise, combined with bright light may be used to evict a raccoon, suggests Craven. Removal of the female raccoon with a litter of young in the spring usually requires the help of a professional nuisance wildlife control technician.

Broken windows, vents or boards that allow access to the attic should be repaired.

"Never attempt to drive a raccoon from a chimney by starting a fire," he adds. "Once the raccoon has left the chimney, cover the top with hardware cloth or a commercial chimney cap." Window screen material should not be used, as it will quickly clog with soot and ashes.

If trash cans are a problem, try putting them out right before pickup. Tight-fitting lids secured with a shock cord will foil most raccoons' attempts to get a meal. Do not encourage raccoons by feeding them scraps or leaving pet food where the raccoons can get it.

Raccoons are fond of garden crops, especially corn. Raccoon damage is easily identified. Look for broken-down corn stalks and mangled ears.

"For a small plot, an inexpensive single stand electric fence can be constructed using standard fencing wire or a braided plastic and wire tape," Craven adds.

Chemical repellents, such as moth balls and blood meal, are seldom effective. People could try tying a dog near the garden or placing an inexpensive radio underneath a garbage can overnight.

"Some gardeners claim success at repelling raccoons by planting squash, pumpkins or other prickly vines around their corn," Craven adds.

Raccoons can easily be live-trapped and removed if they are causing problems Wire live-traps are available at most hardware stores, garden centers or agricultural cooperatives.

Raccoons are large and powerful, so a large trap with some reinforcing wire or bars is necessary.

For more information about raccoons, call your County Extension office and ask them about the recently revised UW-Extension publication, "The Raccoon."