Many wild animals use unprotected trash cans as a food source. But identifying which animals may be dining on your trash can be important in combating their raids. With the right countermeasures, you can reduce further messes and minimize animal raids. This article will explore key factors that can help you identify the animals using your trash for take-out.
Knocked-Over Trash Cans
Generally, raccoons and skunks are the primary culprits of knocked-over trash cans. Animals like opossums or squirrels aren’t able to knock them down. Opossums will generally have to wait for other animals to push them over before scrounging what’s left. Sturdier garbage cans, or securing your cans to the fence, can help minimize this.
Animals Climbing In the Trash
Some animals can climb into open trash cans or dumpsters. With the help of a nearby fence, most critters can make their way into a bin. Opossums, raccoons, rats, mice, and squirrels are known to climb in and chow down. However, opossums can occasionally have problems climbing out of cans they jump into. This is especially true if the can isn’t full. Sturdy, locking lids can help prevent animals from climbing into the garbage.
Slashed up Trash Cans
While virtually any animal mentioned above can claw or bite its way through a trash bag, many of them won’t outright destroy the can itself. Raccoons and skunks may try to claw their way through weaker cans if they can’t knock them over. Softer plastic bins won’t stand a chance. Bears can maul through all but the strongest of metal cans. If desperate, rodents can chew a hole through weaker cans, as well. Animals will usually follow the path of least resistance, so if they can jump in or knock the can over, they are unlikely to destroy your garbage can. Overall, animal-proof trash cans with locking lids are the best way to prevent animal access to your garbage.
Protecting your Garbage Cans
If you have a problem with animals in your trash, consider upgrading your garbage bins. Purchase sturdy, animal-proof cans with locking lids. These will help prevent your neighborhood pests from using your alley as a buffet. Additionally, consider using ropes or bungee cords to keep your trash cans secured to a fence or the side of your house. This can prevent animals from knocking them down.
Additionally, consider ways to reduce your trash output. Animals will usually flock to where there is plenty of available food. Reducing your waste output can help keep animals out of your garbage. If you have further issues with wild animals raiding your trash cans, consult a wildlife removal specialist. They can help you identify if wild animals are living on your property and help minimize situations where animal-human interactions may occur.