How to get rid of a raccoon dog? - briefly
To remove a raccoon dog from your property, use humane deterrents such as motion-activated lights and loud noises. If the problem persists, consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service.
How to get rid of a raccoon dog? - in detail
Raccoon dogs, also known as tanukis, are notorious for their adaptability and resilience, making them challenging pests to remove from one's property. To effectively address this issue, consider the following comprehensive strategies:
-
Understand the Law: Before taking any action, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with local wildlife regulations. In many jurisdictions, it is illegal to trap or kill raccoon dogs without a permit. Always prioritize compliance with the law to avoid legal consequences.
-
Remove Attractants: Raccoon dogs are often drawn to properties by readily available food sources. Secure trash bins with tight-fitting lids and store pet food indoors. Remove fallen fruit from trees and ensure bird feeders are not easily accessible. By eliminating these attractants, you reduce the incentive for raccoon dogs to visit your property.
-
Physical Barriers: Install barriers around potential entry points such as sheds, crawl spaces, and underneath decks. Use heavy-duty wire mesh with small openings (less than 1 inch) to prevent raccoon dogs from entering. Ensure the barrier extends at least 6 inches underground to deter digging.
-
Motion-Activated Deterrents: Implement motion-activated sprinklers, lights, or noise devices around the perimeter of your property. These devices can startle and deter raccoon dogs, making them less likely to return. Regularly move these devices to different locations to maintain their effectiveness.
-
Professional Pest Control: If the problem persists, consider hiring a professional pest control service. They are equipped with specialized traps and repellents that can be more effective than over-the-counter products. Moreover, professionals can handle and relocate the animals humanely, adhering to all relevant regulations.
-
Deterrent Repellents: Apply commercial animal repellent sprays around your property. These repellents often contain natural ingredients that are unpleasant to raccoon dogs but safe for humans and pets. Regularly reapply the repellent, especially after rain or snow, to maintain its effectiveness.
-
Educate Neighbors: Raccoon dog problems are not isolated; they often affect entire neighborhoods. Encourage your neighbors to implement similar deterrent strategies to create a unified effort against these pests. A coordinated approach can significantly reduce the overall presence of raccoon dogs in the area.
-
Habitat Modification: Make your property less appealing as a habitat by removing potential shelter sites such as dense brush, tall grass, and rock piles. Raccoon dogs prefer areas with abundant cover, so reducing these elements can make your property less attractive.
By combining these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce the presence of raccoon dogs on your property. Always prioritize humane methods and adhere to local regulations to ensure a safe and legal resolution to the problem.