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How to Keep Raccoons out of your Garbage

Updated: Mar 18, 2023


Raccoon in Trash Can


Living in Hamilton can be an incredible experience. With stunning natural landscapes, friendly communities, and a vibrant urban lifestyle, this city truly has it all. However, like any community, there are occasional challenges that arise. One of these challenges in Hamilton is dealing with pesky raccoons that love to rummage through your trash cans. These furry critters are known for their intelligence and love of food, which means they will go to great lengths to get their paws on anything tasty. Fortunately, there are several effective and humane ways to keep them out of your trash cans and prevent them from causing a mess on your property.


This article describe 3 steps to keep racoons out of your trash and what to do if you have a raccoon in your trash. By following these three easy steps, you can coexist peacefully with these adorable animals while also maintaining a clean and tidy outdoor space.


Step 1: Adjust Your Trash Day Habits


One simple way to discourage raccoons from rummaging through your trash cans is to change your trash day routine. Instead of leaving your garbage out the night before pick-up, consider putting it out the morning of pick-up instead. This small change can significantly reduce the chances of raccoons accessing your trash while you sleep, leaving you with a cleaner and more manageable outdoor space. By taking this small step, you are also doing your part in helping to maintain a harmonious relationship with the local wildlife.

Step 2: Secure Your Trash Cans


One of the most critical steps in keeping raccoons out of your trash is to secure your trash cans. Luckily, there are several options available to help keep your trash cans safe from these clever critters. You can invest in a specialized trash can designed to withstand wildlife or place your garbage bags inside a secure trash bin. Double-bagging particularly stinky trash can also help keep the smells contained, making it less appealing to raccoons. To further deter raccoons, be sure to properly secure the lids on your trash cans. You can use a bungee cord to secure the handles and the lid, or place a weight on the lid to keep it in place. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your trash stays safe and secure.


Step 3: Proper Trash Placement


When it comes to properly placing your trash cans, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you are giving raccoons the least possible chance of accessing your garbage. First, consider the location where you keep your cans. If you store them outside, try to place them in a protected area or secure them to your home or garage. This will make it more difficult for raccoons to get to them. Additionally, be sure to place your trash cans on level ground where they can't be tipped over as easily. This will not only prevent raccoons from getting in but also prevent other animals from rummaging through your trash. Another helpful tip is to position your cans in the line of sight of a spotlight or motion-detecting light. Raccoons are nocturnal and prefer to forage in darkness, so a sudden burst of light can startle them and send them running. By taking these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to keeping raccoons out of your trash cans and enjoying a cleaner, tidier

property.


Baby Raccoon in Garbage

How to Remove Raccoons from Garbage Cans and Dumpsters


However sometimes racoons are determined and find ways into your garbage. Encountering a raccoon in a trash can or dumpster can be a startling experience, but there's no need to panic. If you come across a trapped raccoon, simply tip over the trash can gently and move away quickly. These furry critters are not usually aggressive and will likely scurry away as soon as they are free. In the case of a raccoon stuck in a dumpster, try to open any side doors to allow the animal to escape. If the raccoon is still unable to climb out, you can lend a helping hand by placing a board or something similar for them to climb on.


In conclusion, raccoons can be a nuisance when they are rummaging through your trash cans. However, by following these three easy steps, you can prevent raccoons from accessing your trash and keep your property free from any unwanted raccoon activity. So, take the time to properly secure your trash cans, adjust your trash day habits, and place your trash cans in the proper location to help prevent raccoons from being a nuisance in your garbage.


If you need help with your raccoon problem call the experts at Integrity Wildlife Control at 1-289- 272-9453 or fill out a form to get a quote by clicking here.

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