Raccoon Damage in Your Home

The nights are getting longer, and the days are getting colder; but what does this mean for the animals that might live near your home? Raccoons in particular may want to break into your home to get out of the cold. These little bandits can be a big problem for homeowners.
How can raccoons get inside? The answer can be as simple as a doggy door, but that’s not the only access point for them. Raccoons are good climbers; and will often get into a home from the roof. Damage to the roof can mean that a group (called a gaze) of raccoons can live up in your attic. Chimneys are also common raccoon dens if they are not used often. Be sure to be careful when using your chimney for the first few times during the cold seasons; as animals may be using the space.
Raccoon damage inside the home can be a huge problem. Possibly because of their inquisitive nature, raccoons will tear apart just about anything in your attic. From air ducts, to insulation, to the walls themselves; these critters will absolutely demolish the attics or basements they invade.
Raccoon feces and urine will often carry Raccoon Roundworm. This parasite can be transferred to humans through the air when close to the waste, or by ingestion of contaminated food. The roundworm can cause damage to the central nervous system and even cause blindness. Additionally, Giardia Lamblia is a microscopic protozoa that can live in the fecal material of raccoons; and can cause illness and diarrhea if it contaminates food or water.