1. How do I know if I have a raccoon problem in my home?

Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night. If you hear loud scratching, thumping, or chattering sounds coming from your attic, walls, or chimney, you may have a raccoon infestation. Other signs include visible damage to soffits, vents, or roof shingles, as raccoons often tear these open to gain access. Droppings and urine stains in your attic or crawl space are another indicator. If you notice knocked-over trash cans, disturbed pet food, or raccoons frequently near your home, it’s best to contact a professional for an inspection.

2. Are raccoons dangerous to humans and pets?

Yes, raccoons pose several risks to both humans and pets. They are known carriers of rabies, leptospirosis, and raccoon roundworm, all of which can be transmitted through bites, scratches, or contact with contaminated droppings. Raccoons can also become aggressive when cornered, especially if they are protecting their young. If a raccoon is inside your home, it is important not to approach it and instead call a licensed wildlife removal expert to safely handle the situation.

3. What attracts raccoons to homes in Michigan?

Raccoons are highly adaptable scavengers that seek food, shelter, and warmth. In urban and suburban areas of Michigan, they are often drawn to garbage cans, pet food left outside, bird feeders, and compost piles. Attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces provide ideal nesting sites, especially during colder months or breeding season. Raccoons are also attracted to homes with easy entry points, such as loose roof shingles, broken vents, or open chimneys. Properly securing food sources and sealing potential entry points can help deter raccoons from your property.

4. How do professionals remove raccoons from homes?

Professional raccoon removal involves humane and strategic methods to safely capture and exclude the animals. The process typically starts with a thorough inspection to identify entry points and nesting areas. Experts then use one-way exclusion doors, which allow raccoons to exit but prevent them from returning. In some cases, live trapping may be necessary if raccoons are stuck inside a building. After removal, professionals will seal all entry points with durable materials like metal flashing or heavy-duty mesh to prevent re-entry. Some services also include attic cleanup and sanitation to remove hazardous raccoon droppings.

5. Is it legal to trap and relocate raccoons in Michigan?

Yes, but Michigan has strict laws regarding raccoon removal. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), property owners or licensed professionals can legally trap raccoons. However, relocating raccoons beyond a one-mile radius is prohibited due to the risk of spreading diseases such as rabies. Additionally, raccoons cannot be released on public land without permission. Because of these legal restrictions, it is best to hire a licensed wildlife removal expert who understands the regulations and can handle raccoons safely and ethically.

6. How can I prevent raccoons from coming back?

To keep raccoons away from your home, focus on eliminating attractants and securing potential entry points. Store garbage in metal or raccoon-proof trash cans with tight-fitting lids. Bring pet food indoors at night and remove bird feeders if raccoons are a persistent problem. Inspect your home for gaps, broken vents, or loose shingles, and seal any potential entry points with steel mesh or heavy-duty materials. Installing chimney caps and vent covers can also prevent raccoons from entering. Routine inspections, especially before winter and breeding season, can help keep your home raccoon-free.

7. When are raccoons most active in Michigan?

Raccoons are active year-round in Michigan, but their behavior varies by season. Spring (March-May) marks the start of their breeding season, and pregnant females often seek out attics or chimneys as safe nesting sites. In summer and fall (June-October), young raccoons begin exploring and foraging for food, leading to more human encounters. During winter (November-February), raccoons do not hibernate but may enter a state of torpor, reducing their activity during extremely cold periods. If raccoons are active on your property, it is best to address the issue before they establish a permanent den.

8. How much does raccoon removal cost in Michigan?

The cost of professional raccoon removal depends on the severity of the infestation, the number of raccoons, and the amount of damage repair needed. On average, raccoon removal services in Michigan range from $300 to $1,000. If extensive exclusion work, attic restoration, or biohazard cleanup is required, costs may be higher. Many wildlife control companies offer free or low-cost inspections to assess the situation and provide an accurate quote. Hiring a licensed and experienced wildlife removal specialist ensures safe, legal, and effective raccoon control.