Raccoons are medium-sized mammals known for their distinctive black "mask" of fur around their eyes and their bushy tails with rings. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, including urban and suburban areas. While raccoons are fascinating creatures, they can become significant pests when they invade homes and properties. They often scavenge for garbage, pet food, and other food sources, leading them to raid trash cans, compost bins, and bird feeders. Their search for food can cause considerable mess and damage. Raccoons are also known for their ability to enter homes and buildings. They can squeeze through small openings and access attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Once inside, they may create nests, damage insulation, and chew through electrical wires, posing both a safety hazard and potential costly repairs. Raccoons are also carriers of various diseases, including rabies, and their feces can spread parasites such as roundworms.

Managing raccoon problems involves a combination of prevention and removal strategies. Secure trash bins with raccoon-proof lids, remove pet food and birdseed from outside, and ensure all potential entry points to buildings are sealed. If raccoons have already entered a building, professional wildlife removal services are recommended to safely and humanely remove the animals and repair any damage they have caused. Additionally, exclusion methods, such as installing raccoon-proof barriers and ensuring proper ventilation, can help prevent future infestations.