Raccoons are among the most problematic wildlife species for Scarsdale homeowners. These intelligent, adaptable mammals are excellent at finding their way into homes, where they cause extensive damage and create serious health hazards.
With their dexterous paws and persistent nature, raccoons can rip shingles, tear vent covers, and tear through screens to access attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces.
Our network of licensed wildlife control professionals provides humane, effective raccoon removal services throughout Scarsdale and Westchester County. We don't just remove the animals—we implement exclusion measures to ensure they don't return.
Understanding Raccoons in Scarsdale
Northern raccoons (Procyon lotor) are medium-sized mammals recognizable by their distinctive black masks and ringed tails. Adults typically weigh 10-30 pounds, with males being larger than females.
They're primarily nocturnal and omnivorous, eating everything from fruits and nuts to insects, small animals, and household garbage.
Raccoons thrive in suburban environments like Scarsdale, where they find ideal habitat in mature neighborhoods with tree cover, nearby water sources, and easy access to food—particularly garbage cans, pet food, and bird feeders.
Why Raccoons Invade Homes
Raccoons seek shelter in homes for several reasons:
- Denning Sites: Attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces provide warm, safe shelter for raising young
- Food Access: Homes with accessible garbage, pet food, or bird seed attract raccoons
- Protection: Home structures offer protection from predators and weather
- Yarding Season: In late winter, raccoons actively seek dens for spring birthing
Signs of Raccoon Infestation
Watch for these indicators of raccoon activity:
- Nocturnal Noise: Scratching, thumping, or vocalizations in attics or walls at night
- Visible Damage: Torn shingles, damaged vents, or holes in rooflines
- Droppings: Large, cylindrical droppings often containing undigested food
- Track Marks: Paw prints with distinctive hand-like impressions
- Garbage Raiding: Topped-over trash cans or scattered garbage
- Pet Disturbance: Dogs barking at night at nothing visible
Why Professional Raccoon Removal is Essential
Health Hazards
Raccoons pose significant health risks:
- Rabies: Raccoons are a primary reservoir for rabies in the Eastern United States
- Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris): Parasitic infection that can cause severe neurological damage
- Leptospirosis: Bacterial disease transmitted through raccoon urine
- Salmonella: From contamination of surfaces with raccoon droppings
Property Damage
Raccoons cause extensive damage:
- Torn roofing materials and damaged shingles
- Chewed electrical wiring (fire hazard)
- Destroyed insulation from nesting
- Contaminated insulation with urine and droppings
- Damaged gutters and siding
- Chimney damage and blockage
Our Raccoon Removal Process
Our wildlife professionals follow a comprehensive approach:
Inspection and Assessment
We identify all access points, locate denning sites (including any young), and assess the extent of damage. This is critical because raccoons often have multiple entry points.
Humane Removal
Depending on the situation, we use:
- One-Way Exclusion Devices: Allows raccoons to exit but prevents re-entry
- Live Trapping: For visible animals that won't leave on their own
- Den Removal: Carefully removing animals from chimneys and other confined spaces
Important Consideration: Nuisance Wildlife Laws
In New York State, raccoons are classified as nuisance wildlife. Our professionals are licensed to handle them legally and humanely.
We ensure all methods comply with NYS DEC regulations.
Exclusion and Repair
After removal, we seal entry points:
- Repair damaged roofing and replace missing shingles
- Install chimney caps and spark arresters
- Seal gaps in foundations and siding
- Install vent covers and screens
- Repair damaged gutters and fascia
Sanitation
We address contamination from droppings and urine, which can pose serious health risks. In some cases, insulation replacement may be recommended.
Contact Our Scarsdale Raccoon Removal Specialists
If you suspect raccoons in your Scarsdale home, don't wait. These animals cause progressive damage and pose health risks to your family.
Our professionals are ready to help.
Call (844) 578-2840 to reach raccoon removal specialists serving Scarsdale and the surrounding Westchester County communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raccoon Removal in Scarsdale
Can I remove raccoons myself?
It's not recommended. Raccoons can be aggressive when threatened, especially mothers with young.
They may carry diseases. Additionally, simply removing raccoons without sealing entry points leads to new animals moving in.
What time of year are raccoons most active?
Raccoons are year-round residents but most visible in spring (when mothers forage for food) and fall (when juveniles disperse). They're also more active in winter when searching for warm den sites.
How long does raccoon removal take?
Complete removal and exclusion typically takes 1-2 weeks, depending on whether young are involved and the number of entry points. The exclusion and repair phase is critical for preventing recurrence.
Will my homeowners insurance cover raccoon damage?
It depends on your policy. Some policies cover wildlife damage, while others exclude it.
Check with your insurance provider. Our professionals can provide documentation of damage for insurance claims.
How can I prevent raccoons from returning?
Secure garbage cans with locking lids, remove pet food at night, don't feed birds during raccoon season, seal entry points, install motion-activated lights, and consider raccoon-resistant compost bins.