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Raccoons in the Attic: What You Need to Know Before Winter

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Raccoons in the Attic: What You Need to Know Before Winter

As autumn temperatures dip across the Denver Metro Area, raccoons begin searching for warm, quiet places to shelter, often ending up in residential attics. While they may seem harmless at first glance, raccoons can tear insulation, damage ductwork, chew wiring, and introduce serious health risks. Early detection and professional removal are key to protecting your home before winter sets in.

Why Raccoons Target Attics in Fall

Raccoons are intelligent and opportunistic. Attics offer ideal shelter from Colorado’s harsh winter conditions. These pests are most likely to enter homes in late fall through:

  • Roofline gaps or broken shingles
  • Uncapped chimneys or attic vents
  • Loose soffits or fascia boards

Once inside, raccoons can cause extensive damage, often without immediate detection.

Signs of Raccoons in the Attic

Homeowners may hear scratching, thumping, or dragging sounds—especially at night. Additional warning signs include:

  • Droppings with a strong, musky odor
  • Torn or matted insulation
  • Grease marks near entry points
  • Unusual noises in the early evening or just before dawn

These are clear indicators of attic pest activity and should prompt immediate attention.

Why You Shouldn’t DIY Raccoon Removal

Attempting to remove raccoons without professional help can be dangerous and, in some cases, illegal. Colorado law requires the humane handling of wildlife, and improperly setting traps or disturbing a nest may result in fines or, worse, personal injury.

Professional wildlife control teams:

  • Use approved humane removal methods
  • Identify and seal all entry points
  • Sanitize contaminated areas
  • Prevent re-entry with exclusion techniques

Prevention Tips for Homeowners

A proactive approach can reduce the risk of raccoon entry. Homeowners should:

  • Inspect and seal attic vents and rooflines
  • Trim back tree limbs that overhang the roof
  • Store pet food indoors and secure trash bins
  • Schedule a fall pest inspection before first snow

Ready to Remove Raccoons Before They Cause Damage?

Don’t wait for winter to find out you’ve got attic invaders. Raccoon removal is best handled before nesting begins. Animal & Pest Control Specialist, Inc. offers fast, humane wildlife removal tailored for Denver-area homes.

Call 303-987-0842 today to schedule your attic inspection and secure your home before colder weather invites raccoons to stay.

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