We have raccoons on our roof - what do we do?

Answer by  MsLizziebug (833)

Nocturnal mammals rarely make a home for themselves in any one spot for any real length of time. They will leave on their own. Make sure you don't have a constant food source such as garbage around. Make things unpleasant, motion lights, loud radio.

Answer by  Duncan (1124)

Raccoons can damage insulation and roofing, and can potentially bring disease or other unwanted pests into the household. It is best to call your local animal control center to see about options for having them removed, as the threat of rabies means you should not attempt to remove them yourself.

Answer by  mb (5482)

The raccoons must have a nest. You need to drive them out and board up the area they are nesting in. Be carefull a cornered raccoon can be very dangerous.

Answer by  DogLady85 (171)

Whatever you do, don't use a gun. I'd suggest either getting live traps to capture them and then kill or haul them away or calling an exterminator to take care of the problem for you. Raccoons can be very persistent and very destructive, you need to get rid of them.

Answer by  whobesidesme (406)

Trap them and kill them. Sounds horrible and I've never done it, but trap them and put the trap into a garbage can. Fill it with water and close it. Walk away - you don't want to hear that thrashing.