Raccoons are a common sight across Northern Michigan, including the neighborhoods and woodlands of Traverse City. Known for their intelligence, dexterity, and adaptability, these nocturnal mammals can be fascinating to observe in the wild. However, when raccoons take up residence on your property, they can pose serious risks to both your home and health.
Understanding raccoon behavior is the first step in protecting your home. Here's what you need to know about these curious creatures and the dangers they present when they come too close for comfort.
Raccoon Behavior: Smart, Sneaky, and Persistent
Raccoons are opportunistic animals that thrive in urban and suburban environments. They are primarily nocturnal and possess remarkable problem-solving skills, which makes them adept at finding food and shelter in human spaces. Some key behaviors include:
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Foraging at Night: Raccoons often raid trash cans, compost bins, bird feeders, and pet food left outdoors.
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Nesting in Structures: Females seek sheltered areas like attics, chimneys, garages, and crawlspaces to raise their young—especially during the spring.
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Climbing and Digging: Their sharp claws and strong limbs allow them to climb onto roofs, tear through soffits, and dig under porches or decks.
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Washing Food: Known for dipping their food in water, raccoons prefer areas near ponds, streams, or even outdoor pet bowls.
While their behavior may seem quirky or even amusing, it often leads to costly and dangerous situations for homeowners.
The Dangers of Raccoons on Your Property
Raccoons may not be aggressive by nature, but their presence can pose significant health and safety risks:
Property Damage
Raccoons are incredibly strong and resourceful, and their attempts to gain entry into homes can result in significant structural damage. They often tear through shingles, soffits, vents, and rooflines to access attics or crawlspaces. Once inside, they can destroy insulation and ductwork by nesting and moving about, leaving behind contamination from urine and feces. They may also chew on electrical wiring, which poses a serious fire hazard. In many cases, the damage goes unnoticed until it becomes extensive and costly to repair.
Health Risks
Raccoons carry a variety of diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets:
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Rabies: A serious viral infection that can be transmitted through bites or scratches
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Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease that spreads through raccoon urine
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Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris): A parasite found in raccoon feces that can infect humans and cause severe neurological damage
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Salmonella and Giardia: Common bacteria and parasites linked to contaminated surfaces and food
Threats to Pets
Raccoons may fight with dogs or cats if they feel threatened, especially when protecting their young. They can also transmit diseases to domestic animals.
Noise and Nuisance
Raccoons are noisy guests. Homeowners often report hearing loud thumping, scratching, or growling sounds in attics or walls—especially at night.
What to Do If You Suspect Raccoons
If you see signs of raccoon activity around your home—like knocked-over garbage cans, paw prints, or nighttime noises—it's best to act quickly. Raccoons are persistent and won't leave on their own once they've found a comfortable den.
At Critter Control of Traverse City, we specialize in humane raccoon removal, damage repair, and prevention. Our licensed wildlife professionals understand raccoon behavior and use proven methods to remove them safely and prevent re-entry. Contact us today for an inspection!