Three Things Everyone In Houston Ought To Know About Raccoons

Like many other wild animals, raccoons are some of the more common pests in Houston. These creatures tend to get into a lot of mischief in suburban areas, so it's important you know what you're dealing with. With the help of pest control in Houston, you can keep raccoons from causing trouble in your yard or home. Read on for some of the most important things everyone in Houston should know about raccoons.

Raccoons Are Opportunistic Eaters

Raccoons are opportunistic eaters, so they'll eat just about anything. They are omnivorous, and their diets vary according to the time of year. Raccoons will eat insects, fish, birds, reptiles, rodents, and even other raccoons.

Raccoons often raid trash cans and dumpsters for their meals. They'll also forage for food in gardens and yards. They're especially attracted to pet food left outdoors, but they'll also damage plants and fruit trees looking for food.

Raccoons can adapt to living in urban areas very well because they're comfortable with humans — even if we don't always want them around our homes. For raccoon pest control near you, call Texas Termite Terminators.

Raccoons Have Dexterous Paws

Raccoons are animals that are well known for their dexterous paws and ability to climb, which is one of the reasons why so many homeowners in Houston have problems with them. Raccoons can easily gain access to your home without you knowing about it. They are also very intelligent, so once they find a way in, they'll make sure it stays open for them to come back whenever they please. 

Raccoons can use their dexterous paws to open doors, bottles, and jars. They also use their paws to open trash cans and other containers. You may think that your garbage can is secure, but if there is an opening at the top of it or on its side, then raccoons can easily get inside it.

Raccoons can cause significant damage to your home by tearing down insulation, ripping up electrical wires, and damaging woodwork around doors and windows. If you notice any signs of a raccoon infestation in your home, Texas Termite Terminators is experienced in raccoon pest control and can safely remove them from your property.

Raccoons Can Carry The Rabies Virus

The raccoon is the most common carrier of rabies in Texas. A rabid animal can transmit rabies through saliva, and you or a pet can contract it when you come into contact with an infected animal's saliva. You may not know that you have been exposed to rabies until it is too late. The symptoms of rabies include:

• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Fatigue and weakness 

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system. It can cause brain inflammation, leading to death within days or weeks after exposure. The virus may be present in the saliva of an infected raccoon for up to two months before symptoms appear.

To avoid the possibility of getting rabies from unwanted raccoons on your property, you should get professional help with pest control for raccoons.

Why You Should Never Remove Raccoons On Your Own

You should never try any raccoon control methods by yourself. Raccoons are wild animals, and they can be dangerous. They have sharp teeth and claws and can bite or scratch you if they feel threatened. Raccoons also have very good memories. If one gets into your home once, it will remember how to get back in later.

Don't try to remove raccoons on your own. The best way to protect yourself from these dangers is by hiring an experienced pest control service. Call Texas Termite Terminators for professional raccoon control service that's safe and effective.