Yearly Archive January 15, 2025

Feeding raccoons and birds can lead to a variety of problems because it creates an artificial food source that attracts other wildlife, including mice, rats, squirrels, and skunks. Here are some reasons why this can be problematic:

1. Attracting Pests: Leftover food can attract rodents like mice and rats, which are drawn to easy food sources. These animals can become a nuisance and pose health risks by spreading diseases.
2. Wildlife Overpopulation: Regular feeding can lead to increased populations of raccoons and other animals, which can cause competition for resources and lead to aggressive behavior among them.
3. Health Risks: Raccoons and other wildlife can carry diseases such as rabies and leptospirosis. Close encounters with them can increase the risk of transmission to pets and humans.
4. Property Damage: Animals drawn to feeders may dig through trash, chew on structures, or cause damage to gardens and landscaping in search of food.
5. Dependency: Animals may become reliant on human-provided food, which can disrupt their natural foraging behaviors and lead to issues when the food source is removed.
6. Conflict with Pets: Attracting wildlife can lead to dangerous encounters with pets, especially if they feel threatened or are protecting their young.

To minimize these risks, it’s advisable to avoid feeding wildlife and to use bird feeders designed to limit access to larger animals. Keeping outdoor areas clean and securing trash can also help deter unwanted wildlife.

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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

January 13, 2025

Raccoons can be a real nuisance when it comes to lawns and gardens. Here’s a summary of how they damage lawns and how to prevent it:

How Raccoons Damage Lawns:

1. Digging Holes: Raccoons dig to find food (like grubs), create dens, or out of curiosity, which leads to unsightly holes.
2. Uprooted Plants: While digging, they can uproot plants, which can disrupt landscaping efforts.
3. Uneven Turf: The digging often leaves behind patches of uneven turf, harming the lawn’s appearance.
4. Torn-Up Mess: After foraging for grubs and insects, raccoons can leave a messy, torn-up lawn behind.

How to Prevent Raccoons from Damaging Lawns:

1. Motion-Sensor Lights or Sprinklers: These can startle raccoons and deter them from using your lawn as a place to search for food.
2. Cover with Netting: If you’ve just laid sod, cover it with bird netting or chicken wire to prevent raccoons from digging it up.
3. Bright Lights: Lights that mimic daylight can help scare raccoons away.
4. Hot Sauce Repellent: A repellent made with hot sauce can be effective in deterring raccoons from digging and foraging.

Other Ways to Raccoon-Proof Your Yard:

• Seal Entry Points: Make sure any access points to your home, such as vents or chimneys, are sealed off.
• Secure Water Sources: Raccoons are drawn to water, so keep outdoor water sources covered or removed.
• Keep Garbage Secure: Always seal garbage cans tightly to prevent access to food.
• Avoid Leaving Pet Food Outside: Raccoons can easily be attracted to pet food, so bring it inside at night.
• Store Bird Feeders Indoors at Night: Remove bird feeders after dusk to prevent attracting raccoons.
• Fence Off Gardens and Fruit Trees: A physical barrier like a fence can prevent raccoons from accessing your plants.
• Keep Your Yard Clean: Regularly clean your yard of food scraps and debris that may attract raccoons.

By taking these steps, you can reduce or even prevent raccoons from causing damage to your lawn and other outdoor spaces.

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