Raccoons - 101!

Raccoons are more than just masked bandits, and we know all their tricks because this ain’t our first rodeo!
When it comes to Dallas-Fort Worth wildlife that leaves a wake of destruction, raccoons may be the top offenders. They can do untold damage inside and outside the home. Luckily for residents of Northeast Tarrant County, Fort Worth, Dallas, and beyond, the Critter Stop team is here to help. We offer a range of rodent and wildlife removal and sanitation services to free your home of pests like raccoons and ensure your family’s health and safety. On this page, we take a closer look at some of the tell-tale signs that you are dealing with a raccoon in your home. If you’re ready to learn more about how to rid your home of raccoons, rodents, and other wildlife, call our Southlake office to schedule your home inspection and complimentary price quote today.
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What You'll See Inside the Home

Most homeowners struggle to determine whether they are dealing with a raccoon or an opossum in their house. While the droppings left behind will look very similar, that is generally where the similarities end. Some of the warning signs you’re dealing with a raccoon include:

Destruction

To get into the home, they have to make pretty large entrances, so there will be a good deal of damage. Once inside, raccoons may continue to do extensive damage to wiring, insulation, and woodwork.

Latrines

Raccoons typically use the same spot over and over again. If you notice one spot with a large concentration of urine and feces, you’re likely dealing with raccoons and not another pest.

Sounds

You will hear the pitter-patter of not-so-little feet in your attic, walls, or even under the house. Raccoons can be very large, so you’ll likely hear them even before you see them.

Time of the Season

Because they’re nocturnal, you’re more likely to hear increased activity after dark. Additionally, raccoons are much more likely to come inside during mating and nesting season in the early spring.

Raccoons Nuisance Problems

Raccoons are known for their vocalizations, which they use for communication and social interaction. Here are some common raccoon noises:
Chittering
Growling
Hissing
Whimpering & Whining
Snarling
Purring
Screaming

Chittering

Raccoons often make chittering sounds, which are high-pitched and rapid vocalizations. They use chittering to communicate with other raccoons, especially during social interactions or when they are excited.

Growling

Similar to other animals, growling is a sign of aggression or territorial behavior in raccoons. They may growl when feeling threatened or when defending their territory.

Hissing

Raccoons hiss when they feel threatened or cornered. This noise serves as a warning to potential predators or intruders to stay away.

Whimpering & Whining

Raccoons may whimper or whine when they are in distress or feeling submissive. This noise is often softer and more plaintive than their other vocalizations.

Snarling

Snarling is a more intense form of vocalization used by raccoons when they are feeling extremely threatened or aggressive. It's a combination of growling and hissing, often accompanied by bared teeth.

Purring

Although less common, raccoons can also produce a purring sound when they are content or relaxed. This noise is similar to the purring of a cat and is often heard when raccoons are grooming or resting.

Screaming

Raccoons can emit a loud, high-pitched scream when they are in distress or facing danger. This noise is particularly common during mating season or when raccoons are fighting over territory or food.

What You'll See Outside the Home

Raccoons may find an easy point of access into your home through ventilation systems or chimneys. If this is the case, you may not see how they’re getting inside, but if they do have to make their own entrance, you’ll notice. In most cases, they make large holes in the eaves of the house. Additionally, you may notice your garbage is knocked over or torn into. If you have dogs or cats, they may start being more active at night time as they hear the sounds of the raccoon.

Trash Cans Disturbed

You might notice overturned garbage cans or scattered trash in your yard, a common sign of raccoons scavenging for food.

Damaged Roof or Eaves

Look for holes, torn shingles, or damage to vents and soffits as raccoons create access points to your attic.

Animal Tracks or Droppings

Raccoon tracks (with their distinct hand-like appearance) or droppings may be visible around your property, especially near access points.

Nocturnal Pet Behavior

Pets like dogs and cats may act restless or bark more at night due to raccoons moving around outside or making noise.
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Your Raccoon Problem Ends Here!

It's important to remember that raccoons are wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect. While they may seem cute and curious, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered. It's best to observe them from a distance and avoid approaching or feeding them. Discover our Step-by-Step process and let us handle it for you!

Free Inspection

Critter Stop provides free in-home consultations to create tailored solutions for your needs. Our team conducts a thorough inspection, checking for damage, entry points, nests, and droppings. After assessing the issue, we’ll discuss the findings and craft a detailed action plan to resolve it effectively.

Seal Your home /
 remove the Critters

Our priority is sealing your home by securing all potential entry points, from the roof to the foundation. The exclusion team ensures every gap is thoroughly patched. Once everything is sealed up, we will set traps/cameras to capture and safely remove the critter. 

Restore & Sanitize

Removing the critter is just the beginning—there’s more to do! We fully restore your space by replacing damaged insulation and fogging the area to disinfect and eliminate animal pheromones. This ensures your home stays protected from future infestations.

Why Choose Critter Stop?

Quick & Responsive Service
Critters won’t wait—and neither will we. Our team is on call to provide fast, reliable service whenever you need it.
Thorough & Humane Solutions
We prioritize humane, eco-friendly methods to safely remove critters without harm.
Guaranteed & Trusted Results
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures a critter-free home. If the problem persists, we’ll come back at no extra charge.
Experienced & Certified Experts
Our certified team brings years of expertise in wildlife and pest control, ensuring the highest standards in every service.

Don’t Let Raccoons Take Over Your Space!

If you notice any signs of Racoons on your property, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Critter Stop offers safe, professional racoon removal services to protect your home and family. Contact us today for a thorough inspection and effective solutions!

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