A few simple tricks to discourage raccoons from making a home on your property:

• Don’t leave food out of any kind.

• Don’t put your garbage out early and make sure it always has a secure lid.

• Ensure all soffit and facia is secure and without holes or spaces that animals can get into.

• Check exterior pipes and dryer vents to ensure they are covered (with mesh wire) so that animals cannot get in.

• Clean up the excess seed and shells from bird feeders off of the ground regularly.

• Pick up after your pet, rodents are attracted to dog feces.