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Pest Library · Rodents & wildlifeRaccoons Identification Guide
How to tell if raccoons are living in your attic, chimney or under your deck.
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How to identify
What raccoons look like
Raccoons are medium-sized animals with a black mask, grey fur and a ringed tail. They are strong climbers and can tear open soffits, vents and shingles.
Females often move into attics and chimneys in spring to have their young.
Signs you have raccoons
- Heavy thumping in the attic at night
- Torn soffits, vents or shingles
- Tipped garbage and green bin damage
- Droppings on the roof or near entry points
Are they dangerous?
Raccoons damage roofs and insulation and their droppings can carry roundworm, so cleanup must be done carefully.
How to prevent them
- Use locking lids on garbage and green bins
- Cap chimneys and screen roof vents
- Trim branches near the roof
- Screen the space under decks and sheds
Quick facts
Scientific nameProcyon lotor
Size60–95 cm
ColourGrey with black mask, ringed tail
Most activeYear-round, babies in spring
Found inAttics, chimneys, under decks
Risk levelHigh (damage, droppings)
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