Best animal fencing pros near Shell Rock, IA

Although raccoons aren’t particularly picky regarding food, certain sounds, metals, and smells bother them. You can place these items around your home to keep raccoons away:

• Place wire mesh screens around and underneath decks and porches to prevent raccoons from nesting. 

• Put metal sheeting around the edges of your roof or at the base of trees to deter raccoons from coming close. 

• Place a loud battery-operated radio near the raccoon’s den to keep them from nesting.

• Keep a bowl of cider vinegar on your deck or porch.

• Remove old raccoon scents by thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting underneath porches and decks.

There are several ways to dry out flea eggs. Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural ingredient that can dry out fleas, but it’s messy to apply and can also cause respiratory issues for members of your household if inhaled. Salt is safer and easier to apply, so shake it liberally over affected areas. Boric acid is another way to get rid of fleas and other insects, but this, too, can cause respiratory issues and health problems if inhaled or ingested.

The best deterrents for possums include securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids, removing outdoor food sources like pet food or fallen fruit, and trimming tree branches that provide access to your roof or an open window. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also startle and discourage them from visiting. Additionally, you can take advantage of their strong sense of smell by using garlic, onion, or commercial possum repellents to keep them off your property.

When it comes to where raccoons nest, they can establish a home pretty anywhere. They may make their homes in crawl spaces, attics, and chimneys. Barn lofts, haystacks, and even storm sewers can double as raccoon dens. Also, they are known for setting up multiple dwellings for their use.