Raccoons may seem harmless, but they can actually cause a lot of problems on your property. From destroyed window screens and gardens to knocked over trash cans and scattered litter, raccoons are a nuisance you don’t want to deal with. Therefore, you may consider trapping the mischievous critters to get them away from your home or business.
However, there are a few things you should know about safe raccoon removal before attempting to trap a wild raccoon.
Florida Raccoon Removal Regulations
Florida law says that wildlife captured live must be legally released or euthanized within 24 hours. Since raccoons are native to Florida, they’re allowed to be released. Unless there is an active quarantine or rabies alert, raccoons can be transported to a different location within 40 acres to be released. However, you can only release the critter on public land unless you have written permission from a government entity or a private landowner.
Dangers of Trapping a Raccoon
Raccoons are normally docile creatures, but they can attack if they feel cornered or threatened. Their sharp claws can scratch, and they will bite if you get close enough. Raccoons are a leading carrier of rabies, as well as a common host for ticks and fleas. Exposure can put you at risk of illness or disease.
Additionally, it can be inhumane to trap a nursing raccoon as baby raccoons can’t survive on their own. If you accidentally trap and relocate a mother raccoon without its young, then they are as good as dead.
Call a Raccoon Removal Professional
Trapping a raccoon on your own puts your health and the health of the animal at risk. Instead of trying to trap a raccoon yourself, you should call a licensed and trained raccoon removal expert. A wildlife professional will have the necessary equipment and experience to conduct a safe and humane raccoon removal process.
Safe Raccoon Removal Services in Central Florida
Some pest control companies use harsh methods that are dangerous to the animal and environment. At Critter Control® of Polk County, we use a four-step, CritterSafe® method for raccoon removal that ensures the health of the critter and your property. Our non-toxic and environmentally friendly methods will safely remove any pest from your home or business and keep them from returning.
To schedule your inspection and receive a free estimate for our effective raccoon removal services, call Critter Control® of Polk County today at 863-204-2815.
