If you’re a homeowner in Atlanta, understanding how to identify raccoon droppings is more important than you might think. Raccoons are common in both urban and suburban areas, including near landmarks like Piedmont Park, and their presence can pose serious health risks. Using Atlanta wildlife control tips to recognize raccoon presence is the first step in addressing the issue effectively. 

This guide will help you spot the signs, understand the risks, and know when to call in professionals.

Identifying Raccoon Droppings

To recognize raccoon droppings, you need to pay close attention to their shape, size, and where they’re located. Typically, raccoon droppings are tubular, dark in color, and two to three inches long. You may notice them clustered in a single area because raccoons often return to the same spot, called a latrine, to defecate. These latrines can be found in a variety of locations, such as:

• Near the base of trees
• On logs, stumps, or rocks
• Decks or patios
• Attics or garages

One common misconception is that all animal feces look the same, but raccoon droppings have distinct characteristics that set them apart. They tend to have a pungent smell and may contain visible remains of their diet, such as seeds, fruit skins, or insect exoskeletons.

Paying close attention to these details can help you determine whether raccoons are the source. Keep in mind that raccoon latrines aren’t just unpleasant; they can be dangerous, especially if contaminated with roundworm eggs.

Why It’s Important to Pay Attention to Droppings

Identifying raccoon droppings early is crucial for several reasons:

• Health Risks: Raccoon droppings often contain eggs of a parasitic roundworm called Baylisascaris. These eggs can become airborne and pose health risks if inhaled or accidentally ingested.
• Property Damage: Accumulated droppings can damage surfaces like wood and stone. Over time, these areas may require expensive repairs.
• Signs of Infestation: Droppings are one of the earliest and most visible signs of raccoon activity. Recognizing them quickly can prevent further damage or contamination.

When you notice signs of raccoon droppings, it is essential to act fast to prevent risks from escalating. 

Atlanta Wildlife Control Tips for Dealing With Raccoon Droppings

Managing a raccoon problem starts with safe and effective cleanup. Here are some practical Atlanta wildlife control tips to follow if you encounter raccoon droppings on your property:

• Avoid Direct Contact: Do not touch the droppings with bare hands. Use disposable gloves to handle them.
• Wear Protective Gear: If working indoors or in confined areas like an attic, wear an N95 respirator to avoid inhaling dust or particles.
• Use Proper Tools: Employ a shovel or plastic bags to remove the feces. For hard surfaces, disinfect thoroughly with boiling water.

If the droppings are on outdoor surfaces, such as decks or patios, a propane torch (used with extreme caution) can also sanitize the area. Additionally, homeowners should consider sealing entry points to prevent raccoons from returning.

However, not all cleanup jobs are safe to handle without professional assistance. If raccoons have nested in your attic or caused significant contamination, it’s best to call in experts like us at Skedaddle. We specialize in handling these situations efficiently and humanely.

Recognizing Raccoon Presence

Droppings are just one sign of raccoons on your property. Identifying additional evidence of their presence can help confirm whether you’re dealing with these clever animals. Other signs include:

• Noises: Scratching, thumping, or chirping sounds (especially at night) often indicate raccoon activity.
• Tracks: Raccoons have distinct five-toed footprints. These are often visible in soft soil or near water sources.
• Damage: Shingles, vents, or soffits that show signs of tampering. Trash cans that have been overturned or rummaged through.
• Latent Smell: A musky odor near their nesting area could be a sign of a potential infestation.

By recognizing these signs, you’ll also be able to identify whether they’re affecting only one part of your home or multiple areas.

The Health Risks of Raccoon Droppings

Raccoon droppings pose significant health risks, particularly for young children and pets. The primary concern is exposure to Baylisascaris, a roundworm that lives in raccoon intestines and passes its eggs through feces. Here are the dangers associated with this parasite:

Transmission:

• Eggs become infectious after 2–4 weeks.
• Humans can become infected by accidentally ingesting contaminated soil, water, or objects.

Health Issues:

• The parasite can cause organ damage, including neurologic and ocular issues.
• Pets are also highly susceptible if they come into contact with contaminated areas.

Protecting your family means being proactive in both identifying and removing raccoon droppings, which is why seeking professional help is often the safest choice.

Atlanta-Specific Wildlife Control Considerations

Here in Atlanta, our urban environment is particularly appealing to raccoons. Whether it’s the tree-filled neighborhoods of Buckhead or the bustling downtown area, our city provides plenty of attractive nesting spots and food sources.

Preventative Tips for Atlanta Homes

Living in Atlanta means taking specific steps to protect your property:

• Seal Entry Points:

• • Use heavy-duty screens to cover vents and chimneys.
  • Check your roof and siding regularly for wear and tear.

• Secure Trash:

Use raccoon-proof trash containers, especially if leaving bins outside overnight.

• Maintain Outdoor Areas:

Trim tree branches that give easy access to your roof.

Implementing these measures can make your home less attractive to raccoons and reduce the likelihood of encountering their droppings.

When to Contact Skedaddle for Raccoon Removal Services

The best time to contact Skedaddle is as soon as you notice signs of raccoon activity on your property. Early indicators can include noises in your attic or walls, overturned trash bins, or visible raccoon droppings around your home. Addressing the issue promptly helps prevent further damage to your property and reduces health risks associated with raccoon waste. 

Additionally, if you’ve observed a raccoon entering or leaving your home, contacting Skedaddle immediately allows for professional intervention before the animal becomes more established. Skedaddle’s expertise ensures humane, safe, and lasting solutions to raccoon problems. Even during peak times of raccoon activity, such as the spring breeding season or in the fall when they seek shelter, no situation is too challenging. Don’t wait until the problem escalates—Skedaddle is available year-round to provide reliable, professional assistance tailored to your needs.

Call Skedaddle Today!

Spotting raccoon droppings on your property might feel overwhelming, but taking action is crucial to protecting your health and home. At Skedaddle, we have years of experience providing humane, effective solutions for wildlife control in Atlanta. Our team ensures the safe removal of contaminants while securing your property against future intrusions.

If you’ve noticed signs of raccoon activity, such as droppings or unusual noises, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Contact us today to schedule a professional consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your home. Together, we’ll ensure your space is safe and secure!