Raccoons are common in many environments, adapting readily to both natural habitats and human-populated areas. These animals exhibit dexterity and an inquisitive nature, often exploring with their sensitive front paws.
Understanding Raccoon Climbing Abilities
Raccoons are highly capable climbers, a skill supported by several physical adaptations. Their paws, resembling small human hands, feature five long, flexible digits and sharp, non-retractable claws that provide strong grip on diverse surfaces like tree bark, wood, or mesh. Their agile bodies and flexible ankle joints enable their hind feet to rotate nearly 180 degrees, allowing them to descend vertical surfaces headfirst. This combination of strong limbs and specialized paws makes them proficient at scaling obstacles.
Common Fence Types and Raccoon Access
Raccoons can climb various fence types, with some offering easier access. Chain link or wood fences with horizontal slats provide numerous footholds, making them easy to scale. Rough surfaces like brick or stone walls also offer sufficient grip. Any fence with gaps, loose boards, or mesh openings can be used by a raccoon.
Conversely, certain fence materials are more challenging. Smooth, vertical surfaces such as polished metal, glass, or unweathered PVC pipes offer little grip for their claws. Fences lacking texture or stable gripping points significantly hinder their ascent.
Deterring Raccoons From Climbing Fences
Preventing raccoons from climbing fences and accessing properties involves several adjustments. One strategy is modifying the fence by adding smooth, non-grippable materials to the top. Installing smooth PVC pipes or sheet metal along the upper edge creates a slippery barrier that raccoons struggle to overcome. Another modification involves adding a low-voltage electric wire along the top, which provides a mild deterrent shock without causing harm.
Removing potential access points near fences is important. Raccoons frequently use overhanging tree branches or large bushes as bridges to bypass fences entirely. Trimming tree limbs to maintain at least a 10-foot distance from the fence line eliminates these pathways.
Securing outdoor attractants, such as garbage cans with locking lids or heavy-duty straps, and bringing pet food indoors at night, reduces the incentive for raccoons to enter the property. Sealing any gaps or weak spots under fences or in structures can prevent raccoons from burrowing or squeezing through. Raccoons can fit through surprisingly small openings, so regular inspection and repair of fence integrity is beneficial. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle raccoons, temporarily deterring them from an area.