Raccoons are infamous for their nocturnal habits and mischievous exploits around pets and trash cans, scattering refuse on a nightly basis and stealing any food in a semi-accessible location. They tend to live in hollow trees and logs close to water such as ponds and streams, venturing into residential areas when searching for food or refuge. They frequently make a home out of existing structures and buildings, under porches and in attics and chimneys.

Raccoons are omnivores, wreaking havoc on gardens by constantly pulling up sod in search of worms and grubs, damaging lawns, devouring plants and vegetables, eating small animals and scattering the contents of residential trash cans all over. These clever creatures are adept climbers and nocturnal, seeking refuge in dry, dark places. Attics provide ideal shelter for raccoons and they love to go through garbage and scavenge remains. Raccoons are the most common carrier of the rabies virus in Texas and a deadly threat to the health of humans and pets in the Austin area. Even attempting to collect the trash raccoons have spread around your yard can be a health hazard.

Trash cans made from tough materials and containing tight-fitting lids with clamps or features to keep them shut can often deter raccoons. Be sure to attach cans to a rack or structure that prevents them from being overturned and avoid keeping pet food outdoors as unconsumed leftovers attract raccoons to an easy meal. Minimizing access to food, shelter and water can be preventative, but once the problem has been identified, it is always essential to enlist the help of a professional and licensed company such as Omega Animal Removal to ensure both elimination and preventative measures.