Raccoons are intelligent, nocturnal scavengers highly motivated by accessible food sources, making residential garbage cans a frequent target. Their sensitive paws and problem-solving abilities allow them to navigate and open standard trash receptacles easily, leading to frustrating cleanup. Resolving this common nuisance requires a multi-faceted approach addressing attractants, implementing robust physical security, and utilizing sensory deterrents.
Eliminating Secondary Food Sources
Discouraging raccoons begins by removing the easy meals that initially draw them to your property. Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores whose diet exploits human-provided calories, making non-garbage items primary attractants. Removing these accessible snacks makes the effort required to access secured trash cans much less worthwhile.
Outdoor pet food should be stored securely and only offered during daylight hours, as raccoons are active from dusk until dawn. If feeding pets outdoors, consider using microchip-activated feeders that only open for your pet. Bird feeders should be temporarily removed or replaced with raccoon-proof models using weight-sensitive perches.
Clear any spilled birdseed or fallen fruit from the ground daily. Additionally, cleaning outdoor grills after every use is important, as lingering grease and food residue attract these animals from a significant distance. Reducing these secondary sources minimizes the overall foraging incentive on your property.
Implementing Physical Barriers
Since raccoons possess highly dexterous paws capable of manipulating simple latches, securing the garbage can demands specialized equipment. Investing in an industrial-strength trash can with a screw-on or twist-and-lock lid provides a robust first line of defense. These purpose-built containers are designed to withstand the persistent prying and tipping attempts of wildlife.
For existing cans, heavy-duty bungee cords offer an effective, low-cost solution. They must be wrapped around the lid and securely anchored to the can’s handles or base. Carabiner clips provide a more secure connection than standard bungee hooks, which raccoons can learn to dislodge. To create fixed anchor points, drill small holes near the rim and base for metal-wire or ratchet-strap securing systems.
The most effective physical barrier is a secured storage area, such as a locked shed, garage, or a purpose-built wooden enclosure with a latching door. These structures prevent access to the entire container, eliminating tipping and rummaging. If outside storage is unavoidable, anchor the cans to a fixed structure, like a fence post, using a chain or heavy cable to prevent them from being dragged away or tipped over.
Using Sensory Deterrents
Sensory deterrents act as a supplementary defense by making the area immediately around the garbage can unpleasant. They utilize the raccoon’s sensitive sense of smell and aversion to surprise.
Ammonia is a common repellent because its strong odor mimics the scent of predator urine, suggesting danger to the scavenging animal. To apply this safely, soak cotton balls or rags in household ammonia and place them inside the can or near the perimeter. Ensure the raccoon cannot ingest the chemical.
Raccoons strongly dislike the taste and irritation of capsaicin, the compound found in chili peppers, on their paws and faces. A taste-aversion spray can be made by mixing hot sauce or cayenne pepper powder with water and a few drops of dish soap. Liberally apply the mixture to the outside of the trash can and lid. This mixture must be reapplied frequently, especially after rain or heavy dew.
Motion-activated sprinklers or bright lights provide a startling, non-harmful deterrent that exploits the raccoon’s nocturnal nature. These devices use a Passive Infrared (PIR) sensor to detect the animal’s body heat and release a sudden burst of water or light. Raccoons are intelligent and adapt quickly, so rotate the type or placement of deterrents every few weeks to prevent habituation and ensure long-term effectiveness.