As winter sets in across Northern Michigan, raccoons become a common concern for homeowners. Many people assume raccoons hibernate during the cold months, but the truth is they remain active throughout winter. These harsh months force raccoons to seek warm, secure shelters, which often leads them into attics, garages, sheds, and basements. Once inside, they can create significant problems for both your home and your family’s health.
Why Raccoons Enter Homes in Winter
Raccoons are resourceful animals that prioritize warmth and food during the winter months. Snow-covered landscapes and frozen water sources limit their natural foraging options, making homes an attractive alternative. Warm attics and crawl spaces offer shelter from the cold and protection from predators. Unfortunately, this behavior often results in property damage and potential health risks. Homeowners experiencing winter raccoon problems need to understand why these animals are drawn indoors.
Signs of Winter Raccoon Activity
Homeowners should watch for warning signs of raccoon activity during winter. Common indicators include scratching or thumping noises in walls or attics, overturned trash cans, paw prints in the snow, and unusual odors from urine or droppings. Finding shredded insulation, chewed wires, or damage to vents and siding can also indicate a raccoon infestation. Early detection is key to preventing serious damage and reduces the need for costly repairs.
Health Risks and Diseases from Raccoons
One of the most important reasons to address raccoon infestations is the risk of disease. Raccoons can carry parasites such as roundworms, which can infect humans and pets if accidentally ingested. They are also known carriers of rabies, leptospirosis, and raccoon distemper. Contact with raccoon urine, feces, or saliva can expose families to these diseases. Safe and humane raccoon control in Northern Michigan is critical to protecting your household from these risks.
Humane Winter Raccoon Control in Traverse City
Attempting to remove raccoons on your own can be dangerous. Professional raccoon removal in Traverse City ensures that raccoons are handled safely while protecting your home. Experts can inspect your property, identify entry points, and implement exclusion methods to prevent future infestations. Humane wildlife control techniques ensure that both your family and the animals remain safe.
Preventing Future Winter Infestations
After removal, homeowners should take steps to prevent raccoons from returning. Sealing entry points, securing garbage cans, and maintaining outdoor areas can reduce the likelihood of another winter infestation. Regular inspections of the roof, attic, and foundation will help identify any vulnerabilities before raccoons find their way inside.
Winter raccoon problems are a serious concern in Northern Michigan, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. Protect your home from damage and reduce the risk of disease exposure by addressing raccoon activity promptly.
If you are dealing with raccoons this winter, contact Critter Control of Traverse City for safe and humane removal services. Our team specializes in humane raccoon control in Northern Michigan and is ready to protect your home and family today.