Raccoons may look cute and harmless, but for homeowners in Markham, they can quickly become a major nuisance. Known for their intelligence and dexterity, raccoons often invade residential areas in search of food and shelter. When they do, they can cause significant damage to property, spread diseases, and leave homeowners with hefty repair bills. Effective raccoon control is not just about getting rid of these animals—it’s about implementing long-term solutions to prevent them from coming back.

In this article, we will delve deep into the raccoon control Markham, explain the risks they pose, explore control strategies, and highlight the importance of professional wildlife removal services.

Understanding the Raccoon Problem in Markham

Markham, a fast-growing suburban city in the Greater Toronto Area, has experienced a notable rise in raccoon activity in recent years. As the natural habitats of wildlife continue to shrink due to urban expansion, animals like raccoons are forced to adapt to urban environments. Garbage bins, compost heaps, pet food bowls, and even unsecured attics offer raccoons a buffet of resources and comfortable shelter. This ease of access makes residential areas increasingly attractive to them.

Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, most active at night. They are incredibly clever and have been observed opening latches, unscrewing lids, and even climbing ladders to access attics or rooftops. These traits, while impressive, make them difficult to deter without proper raccoon control methods.

Common Signs of a Raccoon Infestation

Raccoons are not subtle guests. If they’ve made their way onto your property, there will usually be tell-tale signs. You might hear scratching, thumping, or chittering noises coming from the attic, especially during the night. Homeowners also often discover torn shingles, displaced soffits, or damaged vents—signs that a raccoon has tried to force entry into the home.

Trash bins that are frequently tipped over, scattered garbage, or feces around the property are also red flags. In some cases, raccoons might nest in chimneys, under decks, or in crawl spaces, creating a health hazard and potentially compromising the structural integrity of the building.

The Health and Safety Risks Associated with Raccoons

Raccoons are more than just a noisy nuisance. They can pose serious health and safety risks to both humans and pets. One of the primary concerns is the transmission of diseases. Raccoons are known carriers of rabies, which is potentially fatal if left untreated. They also carry roundworms, which are particularly dangerous to children who might accidentally ingest contaminated soil or droppings.

In addition to disease transmission, raccoons can cause electrical fires by chewing through wires in attics or walls. Their urine and feces can lead to unpleasant odors and contribute to the growth of mold or bacteria in confined spaces. Clearly, raccoon infestations are not something to take lightly.

Why DIY Raccoon Control Often Falls Short

It may be tempting to try and handle a raccoon problem on your own, especially with the abundance of DIY traps and repellents on the market. However, raccoon control is not as simple as setting a trap and hoping for the best. These animals are highly adaptable and can become aggressive if they feel threatened—particularly if there are babies involved.

Improper removal can also result in legal issues, as raccoons are protected under Ontario’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. There are strict regulations governing how and when raccoons can be removed. Moreover, relocating raccoons too far from where they were captured is illegal and can be inhumane, as the animal may not survive in unfamiliar territory.

Most importantly, removing a raccoon without addressing how it got in will only provide temporary relief. Another animal will likely take its place if entry points are not sealed and attractants are not removed.

Professional Raccoon Control Services in Markham

To properly and legally handle a raccoon infestation, the best course of action is to call in professional raccoon control experts in Markham. These specialists have the training, tools, and experience to humanely remove raccoons and prevent them from returning.

The process typically begins with a thorough inspection of the property to determine the extent of the infestation and identify entry points. This is followed by the safe removal of the raccoon(s), often using one-way doors that allow the animals to exit but not re-enter. If babies are present, they are usually removed by hand and reunited with the mother outside the home.

Once the animals are removed, professionals will seal off access points, reinforce vulnerable areas, and offer recommendations on how to make your property less inviting to wildlife. Some companies also provide cleanup and sanitation services to remove feces, urine, and other hazardous materials left behind.

Prevention Is Key to Long-Term Raccoon Control

After the raccoons are gone, it’s important to take preventive measures to ensure they don’t come back. Securing garbage bins with locking lids is one simple but effective step. You should also avoid leaving pet food outside overnight and ensure compost bins are sealed.

Inspect your property regularly for signs of potential entry points. Loose shingles, rotted fascia boards, and damaged vents are all areas raccoons can exploit. Installing chimney caps, sealing crawl spaces, and reinforcing attic vents with steel mesh can provide strong deterrents.

Outdoor lighting can also help, as raccoons prefer to operate in darkness. Motion-activated lights are particularly useful for startling them and discouraging nighttime visits.

The Role of Seasonal Changes in Raccoon Behavior

It’s also helpful to understand the seasonal behaviors of raccoons to better anticipate when they might pose a threat. Spring is birthing season, so female raccoons are often on the lookout for warm, quiet spaces to raise their young. This is why attic invasions are especially common in the spring months.

In the fall, raccoons are busy preparing for winter by eating as much as possible and seeking secure dens. This can lead to increased sightings and activity around residential neighborhoods. Recognizing these patterns can help you stay one step ahead in keeping your home raccoon-free.

Choosing the Right Raccoon Control Company in Markham

When selecting a raccoon control company in Markham, it’s important to choose a provider that is licensed, insured, and follows humane wildlife removal practices. Look for companies that offer comprehensive services—not just removal, but also damage repair, prevention, and follow-up inspections.

Reputation also matters. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from neighbors or community forums. A trusted local company will have a track record of success and a deep understanding of regional wildlife patterns.

Transparency in pricing and clear communication about the methods being used are also key indicators of a reliable service provider. Remember, raccoon control isn’t just about fixing a current problem—it’s about ensuring it doesn’t happen again.

Act Early Before the Problem Escalates

The longer a raccoon remains on your property, the more damage it can cause. What starts as a few strange noises in the attic can quickly turn into structural damage, health hazards, and stress for your entire household. Acting quickly and contacting a professional raccoon control service can save you time, money, and peace of mind.

Raccoon infestations are not rare in Markham, but they are manageable with the right approach. By staying vigilant, addressing problems early, and investing in professional wildlife control, homeowners can protect their properties and enjoy a raccoon-free living environment.

Conclusion: Keeping Raccoons at Bay in Markham

Raccoons are remarkably intelligent and resilient animals, but they don’t belong in your home. As their urban presence continues to grow, so too does the need for effective and humane raccoon control in Markham. Whether you’re currently dealing with a raccoon problem or looking to prevent one, proactive steps and professional support are essential.

Don’t wait until raccoons have taken over your attic or torn apart your trash. Reach out to a trusted raccoon control service in Markham and take back control of your property—safely, responsibly, and effectively.