Are Raccoons Dangerous? What You Need to Know

Raccoons may look cute with their masked faces and curious behaviour, but don’t be fooled—they can pose real threats to people, pets, and property. Whether you’ve spotted one rummaging through your trash or nesting in your attic, it’s important to understand the risks and what actions you should take.

If you live in a densely populated area like Scarborough, raccoons are more than just a nuisance—they’re a growing pest problem. In this guide, we’ll explore why raccoons can be dangerous, the potential health hazards they carry, and how professional raccoon control in Scarborough can help protect your home and family.

Why Are Raccoons Attracted to Urban Areas?

Raccoons are highly adaptable creatures. Their intelligence and dexterity allow them to thrive in rural and urban environments. Cities like Scarborough offer raccoons:

• Plenty of food: garbage bins, pet food, compost piles, bird feeders
  
• Shelter options: attics, chimneys, garages, sheds, crawl spaces
  
• Fewer predators: Raccoons feel safe in urban environments

As a result, raccoon populations in residential neighbourhoods have been steadily increasing.

Are Raccoons Dangerous to Humans?

Risk of Rabies and Other Diseases

Raccoons are one of the primary carriers of rabies in North America. Rabies is a deadly viral disease transmitted through bites or saliva. Even a seemingly tame raccoon could be infected and highly contagious.

Aside from rabies, raccoons also carry:

• Leptospirosis: Bacterial infection from urine-contaminated soil or water
  
• Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis): Eggs found in raccoon feces can be accidentally ingested
  
• Giardiasis: A parasite spread through contaminated water
  
• Salmonella and E. coli: Found in feces, which can contaminate food or water sources

These diseases pose serious health threats, especially to children and pets.

Aggressive Behaviour

Though raccoons typically avoid humans, they can become aggressive when threatened, especially mothers protecting their young. If cornered, a raccoon may:

• Hiss, growl, or charge.
• Scratch or bite.
• Fight back when trying to be removed from a home or property.

Are Raccoons Dangerous to Pets?

Yes. Raccoons can injure or kill small pets, especially when fighting over food or territory. They are known to:

• Fight with cats or small dogs.
• Transmit diseases to pets.
• Invade pet food bowls left outside.

Pet owners should never leave food out overnight and should supervise small pets when outside.

Are Raccoons Dangerous to Property?

Raccoons are notorious for causing property damage. Their strong claws and teeth allow them to:

• Tear shingles and soffits to enter attics.
• Destroy insulation and wiring, increasing fire risks.
• Rip ductwork to build nests.
• Damage gardens and lawns while digging for grubs.
• Topple garbage bins and scatter waste, attracting other pests.

If you hear scratching or thumping in your attic at night, there’s a chance raccoons have already moved in.

Signs of a Raccoon Infestation

Watch for these red flags:

• Loud noises in the attic or walls during the night.
  
• Feces or urine stains near entry points.
  
• Tipped-over garbage cans or compost bins.
  
• Scratch marks around windows, doors, or vents.
  
• Nesting materials like leaves and twigs are in your attic.
  

If you notice any of these, it’s time to act fast and avoid DIY solutions that may worsen things.

What to Do If You Encounter a Raccoon

Do not attempt to trap or confront a raccoon yourself. Wild animals are unpredictable and may attack when cornered.

Instead, follow these safety tips:

• Stay calm and keep your distance.
• Do not feed the raccoon.
• Secure pets and children indoors.
• Call a professional raccoon removal service immediately.

Why You Need Professional Raccoon Control in Scarborough

While raccoons may seem manageable, removing them safely and permanently requires expertise and proper equipment.

Here’s why homeowners in Scarborough are turning to expert raccoon control services:

Safe and Humane Removal

Licensed pest control technicians use humane trapping and relocation methods that comply with local wildlife laws. This prevents harm to both the animal and your family.

Thorough Property Inspection

Experts don’t just remove the raccoon—they identify how it got in, seal all entry points, and assess any damage caused.

Disease Prevention

Professional teams are trained in biohazard cleanup, including feces, urine, and contaminated nesting materials. This drastically reduces health risks from bacteria and parasites.

Long-Term Pest Prevention

Reputable services offer long-term pest control solutions, such as raccoon-proofing, attic restoration, and follow-up inspections to ensure your home remains secure.

The Role of Pest Removal in Scarborough

Raccoons are just one part of the bigger pest picture. A full-service pest removal company in Scarborough can help with:

• Mice and rodent control.
• Squirrel and skunk removal.
• Wasp and hornet nest removal.
• Bed bug and cockroach extermination.

By addressing all pest issues holistically, you create a safer, cleaner, and more peaceful home.

How to Prevent Raccoon Infestations

Prevention is always better than removal. Here are practical tips you can implement today:

• Secure garbage bins with tight-fitting lids.
• Trim tree branches at least 6 feet away from your roof.
• Install chimney caps and vent covers.
• Seal cracks and entry points in your roof, attic, and basement.
• Keep pet food indoors, especially at night.
• Clean up fallen fruit or birdseed regularly.

For added protection, ask your local raccoon control service to inspect your home for vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Raccoons are intelligent, persistent, and potentially dangerous animals. From spreading deadly diseases to damaging your property, they’re not pests you want hanging around. Whether dealing with a single visitor or a full-blown infestation, the safest action is to call professionals trained in raccoon control Scarborough.

Protect your home, your loved ones, and your peace of mind. Trust a licensed wildlife control expert to do the job right for fast, effective, and humane pest removal in Scarborough.