Raccoons are a menace to your backyard.

Raccoons can be charming with their masked faces, but they can also become a nuisance when they invade your yard. If left unchecked, these furry bandits will cause havoc. They can damage your property or rummage through your garbage. But fear not! You can reclaim outdoor space with a few simple measures and keep those pesky, raccoons away. Here are seven ways to raccoonproof your backyard.

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Secure your Trash Bins

Raccoons are known for their dumpster diving skills. Start by fortifying the trash bins. Invest in animal-proof containers that have locking lids. Secure your existing bins by using straps or bungees to prevent them from being opened by raccoons.

Eliminate food sources

Raccoons are opportunistic eaters, so remove all potential food sources in your yard. Avoid leaving pet food out overnight and harvest fruit and vegetables quickly to avoid attracting hungry critters. Consider installing motion-activated sprinklers or lights to discourage raccoons.

Seal Entry Points

Ensure that you inspect your property to identify any possible entry points for raccoons. Seal openings in fences, decks, or outbuildings. Use materials that are strong, such as hardware cloth or wire mesh. Remember that raccoons can climb well, so trim any overhanging branches or secure gates to keep them out.

Install a Raccoon-Proof Fencing

Install a raccoonproof fence around the perimeter of your property to provide additional protection. To deter raccoons, choose a fence with smooth surfaces at a height of six feet or more. You can also add a fence with an overhang that faces outwards, or even electric wires to make it even more formidable.

Use Natural Deterrents

Use the power of nature in your backyard to repel raccoons. Planting strong-smelling plants like lavender, mint, or garlic can deter raccoons. You can also scatter ammonia soaked rags and citrus peels in your yard to create an effective natural barrier.

Motion-Activated Devices

Use motion-activated devices as a way to scare away raccoons. Motion sensor lights, ultrasonic repellers, and sprinklers can startle and deter raccoons from staying in your yard. Place these devices strategically in areas where raccoons tend to congregate. Motion sensor lights can cost as little as $40, depending on their size and quality.

Encourage Natural Predators

Invite nature’s pest control squad to your backyard by attracting natural predators of raccoons. Installing bird feeders and bat houses will encourage birds of prey, insect-eating bats, and bats that eat insects to frequent your yard. This helps keep raccoon numbers in check. Maintaining a diverse ecosystem with a variety of plants can also attract predators such as foxes or coyotes that are known to feed on raccoons.

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