The raccoon is a native animal to Delta, and is one of the most successful animals in our urban environment (next to rats of course). Raccoons have adapted well to rummaging through human garbage for food. The adults are active throughout the year, where males tend to travel in wide areas and females generally remain close to their dens. The babies or kits are usually born from late March into May, usually five babies per year. These animals are problematic to control so the first thing is to realize is that raccoons learn rapidly, and if they come across human garbage then your house will become part of their nightly circuit. All garbage cans should have a well sealed top and shouldn’t be easy to topple over. A general rule concerning all animals is that you should keep all trees and shrubs cut back at least six feet away from your roof. Once a raccoon gets on your roof they look for flimsy soffit materials or roofing materials that they can access the attic through. If they get into your attic they can cause a lot of damage. Although raccoons don’t carry rabies in B.C., their feces may contain raccoon roundworm eggs that can be dangerous to people and pets.
Go Green Pest Control owner Randy Bilesky is a long-time South Delta resident. Trained and certified, Bilesky has first-hand knowledge of the pest problems that local homeowners and business owners encounter.
