There are several tips and tricks to keep critters like raccoons and skunks out of your trash cans. One of the most popular upgrades to your home exterior for this is motion sensor lights. In this article, we will discuss the effectiveness of motion sensor lights and keeping wildlife away.
Why Use Motion Sensor Lights?
For nocturnal animals like raccoons, opossums, and skunks, bright lights can often act as a deterrent. They like to hide in the dark, and their eyes work better in darker areas. Motion sensor floodlights allow you to brighten up your alleyway or backyard when an animal is detected, and limit energy use throughout the night. The lights are only on when movement is detected. Because of this, motion sensors are a practical and low-energy solution to lighting up your alleyway, for personal use, and as a critter-defense tool. 0
Why Regular Flood Lights Don’t Cut It
Animals tend to adjust to their environments. If your trash cans are always well-lit because you leave a light on, they might get used to it. However, the sudden brightness of motion sensor lights can scare off and disorient the animals. This makes them less likely to return. If possible, invest in motion sensors with adjustable timing and sensitivity, so you can find the settings that work best for your home.
Light Positioning Matters
Consider how your lighting should be laid out. Generally, you will want to properly illuminate your alley or backyard. Try to avoid providing good hiding spots out of the light for the critters. Additionally, consider the angles of the lights. Try to aim them so that they don’t shine into windows. For your home, and the homes around you. No one wants a floodlight shining into their home late at night. Lastly, positioning the lights closer to or above the trash cans can provide more illumination in the target area.
Motion Sensor Lights are Not a Catch-All
While it may seem like a great investment to set up motion sensor lights, just remember that they aren’t a surefire solution. Animals can be resourceful, especially when hungry. Motion sensor lights may only provide a temporary solution, or may only stop some wild animals. You may also need to adjust angles and settings on the lights through trial and error. The best way to secure your trash cans is by attacking the problem from many angles. Invest in strong, animal-proof trash cans with locking lids. Use ropes or bungee cords to secure the cans to your fence or home. Increasing the difficulty of accessing food scraps can deter even the most desperate critters. If you have wild animals living on your property, hire a humane wildlife removal specialist to trap, exclude, and relocate them.