As the days grow longer and the weather warms up in South Wisconsin, raccoons become more active—and more likely to wander into places they don’t belong. Summer is peak season for raccoon activity, and if you're hearing bumps in the night, finding overturned trash cans, or noticing strange odors, you might be dealing with an unwelcome visitor.
At Critter Control of South Wisconsin, we understand how frustrating and even dangerous raccoon problems can be. Here’s what you need to know about the seasonal raccoon surge, what signs to watch for, and how to solve the problem humanely.
Why Raccoon Activity Spikes in Summer
Raccoons are nocturnal and opportunistic, and summer is their prime time for scavenging, nesting, and raising young. During these months:
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Food is abundant, from backyard grills and compost piles to pet food and trash bins.
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Shelter is easy to find, including attics, chimneys, garages, and under decks or sheds.
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Baby season is in full swing, which means adult raccoons may be more aggressive while defending nests.
These smart, strong, and agile animals are experts at finding ways into your home and causing damage before you even realize they’re there.
Signs You May Have a Raccoon Problem
Raccoons are sneaky, but they leave behind telltale signs. Watch for:
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Noises at night, such as scratching, thumping, or movement in your attic or walls
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Tipped-over garbage cans or scattered trash
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Footprints or smudge marks along fences, walls, or entry points
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Droppings in garages, attics, or near garden areas
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Foul odors, especially if a nest or food stash is hidden inside your home
If you spot more than one of these signs, it's time to take action—before the problem gets worse.
The Risks of Raccoons on Your Property
Raccoons may look cute, but they pose serious risks to your home, health, and pets:
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Structural Damage – Raccoons can tear through roofing, soffits, and insulation to access nesting sites.
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Health Hazards – They carry parasites and diseases, including rabies, roundworms, and leptospirosis.
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Pet Threats – A cornered raccoon may lash out at dogs or cats, especially if kits (babies) are nearby.
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Contamination – Their droppings and urine can contaminate insulation and create lingering odor issues.
Humane and Effective Solutions
At Critter Control of South Wisconsin, we specialize in safe, humane raccoon removal and long-term prevention. Our process includes:
Thorough Inspection
We identify raccoon entry points, signs of nesting, and damage to your home or property.
Humane Removal
We use proven, ethical trapping techniques that comply with Wisconsin wildlife laws. Nursing mothers and their kits are handled carefully and relocated when possible.
Damage Repair & Cleanup
We repair entry points, replace damaged insulation, and sanitize affected areas to remove biohazards.
Exclusion & Prevention
We install raccoon-proof barriers, chimney caps, vent covers, and seal other potential access points to prevent future issues.
What You Can Do to Prevent a Raccoon Infestation
Here are some proactive steps to discourage raccoons from making your home theirs:
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Secure garbage bins with locking lids or straps
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Don’t leave pet food outside overnight
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Trim back tree limbs that give easy roof access
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Seal all crawl spaces, attic vents, and entry points
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Install motion-activated lights to deter nocturnal activity
Call South Wisconsin’s Raccoon Control Experts
If raccoons have made their way into your attic, shed, or yard, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Contact Critter Control of South Wisconsin for prompt, professional, and humane help. We’re local experts who understand the wildlife challenges unique to our region, and we’re here to help you reclaim your home—safely and responsibly.