Raccoons are highly adaptable animals that establish communal defecation sites called latrines when they find a safe, consistent place. These latrines are often located on raised, flat surfaces like decks, woodpiles, or tree forks. Addressing this issue requires a multi-step approach focused on immediate safety, eliminating attractants, and implementing exclusion techniques to make your property permanently uninviting.
Immediate Safety and Latrine Cleanup
Raccoon feces pose a public health risk because they can contain the eggs of the raccoon roundworm, Baylisascaris procyonis. If these microscopic eggs are accidentally ingested by humans, the larvae can migrate through the body, potentially causing severe neurological damage, eye disease, or death, particularly in young children. The eggs become infective within two to four weeks after being passed and can remain viable in the environment for years. Prompt and careful cleanup is necessary to reduce the risk of exposure.
Before beginning cleanup, it is important to don protective gear, including disposable gloves and rubber boots or booties to prevent tracking contamination indoors. If working in an enclosed area like an attic, an N95-rated respirator mask is recommended to prevent inhaling dust, fungal spores, or aerosolized eggs. Lightly mist the latrine area with water from a spray bottle to prevent dust from becoming airborne. Scoop the feces and contaminated material into heavy-duty plastic bags.
Feces and heavily soiled materials, including the top two to four inches of contaminated soil, should be double-bagged and disposed of in the trash, burned, or buried. Most household chemicals will not kill the roundworm eggs, but extreme heat destroys them instantly. Hard, smooth surfaces like concrete or decks can be treated by pouring boiling water over the area or by using a propane torch. Always confirm local fire regulations and safety before using a torch.
Eliminating Food and Shelter Sources
Raccoons are primarily drawn to residential areas by easy food and secure shelter. A foundational step in long-term prevention is removing all accessible food sources, starting with securing the garbage. Trash cans should be fitted with heavy-duty lids, bungee cords, or locks, or stored inside a locked shed or garage until collection morning.
Remove any pet food or water dishes left outdoors overnight, as these attract nocturnal foragers. Bird feeders should be brought in at night or hung from thin poles or wires that raccoons cannot easily climb. Also, pick up fallen fruits and nuts from trees and secure compost piles with a tight-fitting, wildlife-proof bin.
Raccoons seek quiet, protected spaces for denning, which they defend and use repeatedly. Block potential den sites like openings under porches, decks, and sheds with sturdy wire mesh or hardware cloth. Fit chimney tops with a professional-grade sheet metal cap and mesh to prevent access, as chimneys are common sites for females to raise young. Eliminating these attractive nesting and feeding spots encourages raccoons to relocate.
Using Physical Exclusion Methods
Physical barriers are the most reliable long-term strategy for preventing raccoons from accessing specific areas. Standard fences are often ineffective because raccoons are skilled climbers, but a secure fence can be made raccoon-proof with structural modifications. To prevent digging underneath, fit the bottom of the fence with an “L-footer” extension of wire mesh.
Bury this wire mesh approximately one foot deep and bend it outward in a 90-degree angle for at least one foot to create a horizontal barrier under the soil. For garden beds, temporary netting or wire cages can be placed over crops to prevent foraging. Seal any structural gaps in the home’s foundation, eaves, or vents with heavy-gauge mesh or metal flashing, as raccoons can exploit surprisingly small openings.
Employing Sensory Deterrents
Sensory deterrents are non-physical methods used to make the yard less comfortable, often working best when combined with physical exclusion. Motion-activated sprinklers are highly effective because the sudden spray of water startles raccoons, creating an unpleasant experience they quickly learn to avoid. Motion-activated floodlights can also momentarily scare off raccoons, as the sudden burst of brightness disrupts their nocturnal stealth.
Raccoons have a highly developed sense of smell, and certain strong odors can make an area undesirable. Scents like ammonia, which mimics predator urine, can be placed in open containers or soaked onto rags near entry points or latrines. Other scents, such as cayenne pepper, strong spices, or garlic juice, may also be used. However, these non-physical methods often require frequent reapplication, especially after rain, to maintain their potency.