Raccoons find easy entry into Millstone Township, NJ roof

Challenge

A homeowner in Millstone Township, NJ was hearing unusual thumping noises in his attic and spotted some raccoons around his property. He immediately contacted Cowleys to trap and relocate the wildlife. Upon arrival, I started with my exterior inspection to determine the access point. Raccoons are the largest nuisance wildlife we regularly deal with, and usually their entry points into the attic are not subtle. Here, I observed a large hole made by the raccoons in the roof that was rotting. These are strong animals with sharp teeth and claws, and a determined raccoon can get through most building materials. They have a knack for locating and exploiting rotting, water-saturated building materials. It is much more unusual for wildlife to access a home through dry, sound wood. 

Solution

With their entry point found, it was time to deal with the raccoon infestation. I set up a “one-way” device over the opening. A one-way door is hinged such that it allows the animals to exit a structure, but prevent their return. For raccoons or other wildlife, it’s a one-way trip out of the attic. I also strategically set up to baited traps, hoping to catch the raccoons so that I could relocate them to a safe area. Sometimes the animals take the bait, sometimes they don’t. But regardless, with the one-way, the raccoons are out of the house.

Later, I inspected the inside of the attic to make sure that there was no remaining wildlife (especially babies) inside the attic. With everything clear, I installed a trim coil patch over the hole to prevent a re-infestation. The homeowner will need to locate a general contractor or roofer to make permanent roof repairs.