Raccoons are a common sight around Grand Rapids, often seen scavenging near trash cans, climbing fences, or even sneaking into attics. While these masked mammals might look cute and curious, they can cause serious problems for homeowners and carry several diseases that pose risks to people and pets. Understanding raccoon behavior, health concerns, and prevention methods can help protect your home and family.
Why Raccoons Are Attracted to Grand Rapids Homes
Raccoons thrive in urban and suburban areas like Grand Rapids because they can easily find food and shelter. They are omnivores that eat just about anything, from pet food and garbage to birdseed and garden vegetables. Attics, crawl spaces, chimneys, and sheds offer warm, dry spots that make ideal nesting areas. Once inside, raccoons can damage insulation, wiring, and roofing materials.
Health Risks and Diseases Carried by Raccoons
Raccoons are known carriers of several diseases that can spread to humans and pets. Some of the most concerning include:
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Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis): The eggs of this parasite are found in raccoon feces. If accidentally ingested, they can cause serious neurological problems in humans and pets.
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Leptospirosis: This bacterial infection spreads through raccoon urine and contaminated water or soil. It can cause fever, muscle pain, and, in severe cases, liver or kidney damage.
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Rabies: Although rare, raccoons are one of the main wildlife species that can carry rabies in Michigan. The virus is transmitted through bites or scratches and can be fatal if untreated.
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Giardiasis and Salmonella: Raccoons can contaminate water sources and yards with these bacteria and parasites, leading to gastrointestinal illness in people and animals.
Because of these health concerns, it is important not to approach raccoons or try to remove them on your own.
Signs of a Raccoon Infestation
If you hear scratching, thumping, or chattering noises in your attic at night, you may have raccoons living there. Other signs include overturned trash cans, torn soffits or vents, and raccoon droppings around your property. You might also notice paw prints or nesting materials in hidden areas.
Humane Raccoon Removal in Grand Rapids
The best way to handle a raccoon problem is to contact a professional wildlife control company. Critter Control of Grand Rapids uses safe and humane methods to remove raccoons and prevent them from returning. Our team identifies entry points, cleans contaminated areas, and installs exclusion barriers to keep your home secure.
Preventing Future Raccoon Problems
Homeowners can take simple steps to make their property less attractive to raccoons. Keep garbage cans tightly sealed, bring pet food indoors at night, and remove fallen fruit from your yard. Make sure attic vents, chimneys, and soffits are properly sealed and in good repair.
Protect Your Home and Health
Raccoons in Grand Rapids are part of the local ecosystem, but when they move into your home, they create serious risks. If you suspect raccoons have taken up residence on your property, call Critter Control of Grand Rapids for a thorough inspection and humane removal service.