This particular spot is a very common entry point for raccoons. They are able to use their back and push up on the often very flimsy aluminum soffit and gain access inside the attic. It is very important to screen these areas to prevent any unwanted animal intrusions into your home, especially if you have low-pitch intersections like the one pictured.
In this picture you can see a raccoon that has returned after being evicted from their den site. Our screen is positioned and secured in such a way to prevent any manipulation of the aluminum soffit and prevent re-access into the attic. Raccoons are one of the few animals that actually learn from their successes and failures. They repeat their successful behaviours and in the case of a mother raccoon, they pass this behaviour on to their young. For example, in neighborhoods where a raccoon has learned how to break in houses like in the picture, we will see this point of entry throughout the neighbourhood. Because of this, we always recommend screening all similar features on a home to the one that the animal has used to gain access. Once they are locked out of your house, they will be looking for a way back in and try the same areas on the home.
I just love how smart raccoons are and even after 35 years of working with them, they continue to keep teaching us about what they are capable of.
Our service program includes the humane removal of the animals with the use of our one-way-door as well as preventative measures to make sure we are getting them out and keeping them out.
By Brad Gates, B.Sc.
Brad Gates is the owner and president of AAA Gates Wildlife Control. He has over 35 years experience in the humane wildlife removal and prevention industry.
