The addition of threatening species can be scary to smaller wildlife. So, realistically a big dog could scare away neighbourhood raccoons. But, a small lap dog might have a fight on their hands.
The presence of dogs can help reduce raccoon problems
Large predators are enough to scare just about anything away. The sounds of a vicious dog can instill fear in raccoon populations. The CBC reported an overpopulation of raccoons on British Columbia’s Gulf Islands. Their numbers have been gradually growing since their natural predators were hunted by humans. Raccoons spend time on the shoreline eating seafood damaging the intertidal ecosystem. The island implemented speakers projecting dogs barking. The sounds of dogs barking helped move raccoons away so the ecosystem could rebuild.
A litter of raccoon babies in an attic.
But, raccoons will get used to the threat
Dogs barking is a good short-term strategy for initial raccoon removal. However, eventually the noise will become less threatening. Raccoons will adapt to the new surroundings and find other ways to the food source. Raccoons are smart and they’ll realize there’s no bite behind the bark.
One of the few ways to control raccoons is the reintroduction of natural predators such as cougars, wolves or bears. This is something to consider for larger raccoon problems but, unreasonable for the everyday pests in your yard or home.
Raccoon prevention tips
- Sealing entry points.
- Maintenance of home and property.
- Maintaining garbage areas and other food sources.
- Commercial and homemade sprays and deterrents.
- Call a professional.
Fear plays a big role in helping rebuild skewed ecosystems
With the growth of human society it has damaged different species and unbalanced some others. The Gulf Islands is a great example of the raccoon population excessively growing after the removal of large natural predators. Theories have always questioned the possibility of using threatening sounds to help rebuild environments. Raccoons eat small mammals and plants. With nothing eating raccoons they quickly depleted the smaller level of the ecosystem.
A raccoon living inside a garden shed.
Although it’s impractical to scare away raccoons by adding a cougar to your yard, there are other methods to help reduce their presence on your property. But, sometimes they can get in your home undetected.
If you see any evidence of raccoon dens in your attic, chimney or walls make sure to contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. We’ve been providing raccoon removal in Oakville since 1989 and our methods are approved by the Oakville and Milton Humane Society.
Call us today to see what we can do for you! 1-888-592-0387
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