how to get rid of raccoons under deck

3 min read 10-12-2024

Raccoons under your deck are a common nuisance. These clever critters can cause significant damage and pose health risks. This guide provides humane and effective solutions to deter these masked bandits and reclaim your outdoor space. Learn how to get rid of raccoons under your deck safely and permanently.

Assessing the Situation: Why Are Raccoons Under My Deck?

Before implementing any raccoon removal strategy, it's crucial to understand why they're there in the first place. Raccoons are attracted to readily available food and shelter. Common attractants include:

Food sources: Pet food, unsecured garbage cans, fallen fruit, and bird feeders.
Shelter: Gaps or openings under your deck, providing a safe haven from predators and the elements.
Water sources: Access to a water source, like a leaky pipe or birdbath, will keep them coming back.

Inspect your deck thoroughly. Look for any entry points, such as gaps in the decking boards, holes in the foundation, or loose siding. Photographing these access points will be helpful when planning your removal strategy.

Humane Raccoon Removal Methods: Getting Rid of the Problem

While trapping and relocating might seem like a quick solution, it's often ineffective and even unethical. Raccoons are intelligent and can easily find their way back. Furthermore, relocation can disrupt local ecosystems and isn't always permitted. Focusing on prevention and deterrents is a more humane and sustainable approach.

1. Eliminate Food Sources

This is the most important step. Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores. Removing food sources drastically reduces their attraction to your property.

Secure garbage cans: Use heavy-duty lids and consider storing them in a garage or shed.
Remove pet food: Bring pet bowls inside at night.
Clean up fallen fruit: Regularly collect ripe or fallen fruit from trees.
Secure bird feeders: Remove bird feeders or relocate them far from your deck.

2. Block Entry Points

Seal all potential entry points under your deck to prevent raccoons from accessing shelter. Consider these options:

Repair gaps and holes: Use metal mesh, hardware cloth, or concrete to seal any openings.
Install flashing: Install flashing around pipes and vents to prevent access.
Reinforce the deck foundation: Address any weak points in the deck's structure.

3. Repellents: Making Your Deck Unattractive

Raccoons have a strong sense of smell. Repellents can deter them, although they aren't always foolproof and require consistent application.

Commercial repellents: Use commercial raccoon repellents containing natural ingredients like capsaicin (pepper spray) or predator urine. Follow product instructions carefully. Re-apply frequently, especially after rain.
Homemade repellents: Some people report success with homemade mixtures of ammonia, vinegar, or Irish Spring soap. However, the effectiveness of these methods is debated.

4. Motion-Activated Sprinklers or Lights

These devices startle raccoons and can effectively deter them from approaching your deck.

Motion-activated sprinklers: The sudden spray of water is usually enough to scare raccoons away.
Motion-activated lights: The sudden bright light can startle raccoons and disrupt their nighttime activities.

5. Professional Wildlife Removal (as a last resort)

If you've tried the above methods and are still struggling with a raccoon infestation, consider contacting a professional wildlife removal service. They have experience safely and humanely removing raccoons and can offer solutions tailored to your specific situation. Look for services that emphasize humane and environmentally responsible practices. Remember to check reviews before hiring.

Preventing Future Raccoon Problems: Long-Term Solutions

Once you've successfully removed the raccoons, implement measures to prevent future infestations:

Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect your deck for any new openings or damage.
Proper waste disposal: Maintain strict garbage disposal practices.
Landscaping: Keep your yard well-maintained and free of clutter that could provide hiding places.

By combining these methods, you can effectively and humanely get rid of raccoons under your deck and enjoy a peaceful outdoor space. Remember patience and consistency are key when dealing with wildlife. Addressing the root causes of the problem—food and shelter—is far more effective than relying solely on repellents or relocation.