Raccoons, with their cleverness and adaptability, can seem fascinating. However, when these masked bandits invade your home or property, they can pose serious risks to your health, safety, and property. Understanding the dangers associated with raccoon presence is crucial for effective prevention and prompt intervention. At KP Wildlife Control, we have safely removed many raccoons over the years, and wanted to talk about the dangers they pose today.
Property Damage
Raccoons possess sharp claws and dexterous paws, which allow them to pry open doors, windows, and vents. Once inside, they can wreak havoc on your property, causing damage to insulation, electrical wiring, plumbing systems, and even structural components. Chewed wires pose a significant fire hazard, while compromised insulation can lead to energy loss and increased utility bills. Raccoons may also tear apart walls, ceilings, and ductwork, leaving behind costly repairs.
Health Risks
One of the most significant dangers associated with raccoons is the potential transmission of diseases. They can carry various parasites, including fleas, ticks, and lice, which can infest both humans and pets. Additionally, raccoons are known carriers of rabies, a fatal viral infection that can be transmitted through bites or scratches. Other diseases associated with raccoons include leptospirosis, roundworm, and salmonella.
Moreover, raccoon droppings can harbor a parasite called Baylisascaris procyonis, which can be extremely dangerous if accidentally ingested. This parasite can cause severe neurological damage in humans and is particularly harmful to children. Breathing in airborne spores from contaminated droppings can also lead to respiratory issues.
Food Contamination
Raccoons are notorious scavengers and will readily invade trash cans, gardens, and even pet food bowls. Their presence can lead to food contamination, exposing you and your family to harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. These pathogens can cause severe gastrointestinal issues, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and even hospitalization. Keeping your outdoor areas clean and securing your garbage cans can help minimize the risk of raccoon-induced food contamination.
Structural Integrity
Raccoons are skilled climbers, and their presence on your property can compromise the structural integrity of buildings and outdoor structures. They often take up residence in attics, crawl spaces, and chimneys, causing damage to vents, screens, and shingles in the process. Weakened structures can result in leaks, water damage, and potential collapses, posing a significant safety hazard to occupants.
Work With an Experienced Raccoon Removal Specialist
While raccoons may appear cute and harmless, the dangers they pose to your home and health should not be underestimated. Immediate action is essential when dealing with raccoon infestations. Contacting a professional wildlife removal service is the safest and most effective way to ensure the removal of these creatures and mitigate the associated risks. You can reach our team at KP Wildlife Control at (443-282-5035) or send us a message to learn more about our services.
