Signs of Raccoons in Your Attic (and What to Do Next)
Raccoons are strong, clever climbers, and a quiet attic is a good place for them to rest during the day or raise young. Here is how to tell if one has moved in, and what to keep in mind before anyone tries to get it out.
Common signs
- Heavy noises at night. Raccoons are mostly active after dark. Their footsteps sound heavier than a squirrel's, more like thumping or something being dragged.
- Chirping or whimpering. In spring and early summer, these sounds can mean a mother raccoon has young in the attic.
- Damage to the roofline. Look for torn shingles, bent or pulled-back soffit panels, damaged roof vents or chimney caps.
- A latrine. Raccoons tend to leave droppings in one spot. In an attic this is often on top of the insulation.
- Flattened or torn insulation and ductwork, and a strong musky or ammonia smell.
Why you should not handle droppings
Raccoon droppings can carry raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis), a parasite whose eggs can make people seriously ill if swallowed or inhaled with dust. The CDC advises against handling or sweeping raccoon feces without protection. Cleanup of a large latrine is a job best left to someone with the right equipment.
Raccoons can also carry rabies. Never try to corner, catch or handle one, especially if it acts unusually tame, confused or aggressive during the day.
Why timing matters
If there are young in the attic, removing or excluding only the mother leaves the young behind. A trained provider will usually check for a litter first and plan removal so the family leaves together. After the animals are out, entry points are sealed so they cannot come back.
What you can do now
- Keep pets and children away from the attic and any droppings.
- Note when you hear the noises and where. This helps a provider find the entry point.
- From the ground, look for damage along the roofline, soffits and vents.
- Remove easy food sources outside: secure trash can lids and bring pet food inside at night.