Dealing with Raccoon Intruders: What to look for and when to call in the experts

Apr 28, 2026 | Blog

Raccoon Roundup: Humane Raccoon Removal in Des Moines and Central Iowa

Introduction

Are Raccoons Taking Over Your Property?

Raccoons may look cute from a distance, but they can quickly become a serious nuisance for homeowners across Des Moines, Ames, Adel, Winterset, Pleasant Hill, and surrounding Central Iowa communities. From scratching noises in the attic at night to overturned trash cans and damaged soffits, raccoons are incredibly resourceful animals that know how to make themselves at home.

If you are hearing movement above your ceiling or noticing signs of wildlife activity around your home, you may need professional raccoon removal in Des Moines IA before the damage becomes worse.

According to Animal Diversity Web, raccoons are intelligent mammals that adapt well to urban and suburban environments, often nesting in attics, chimneys, crawl spaces, and under decks.

Common Signs You May Have a Raccoon Problem

Raccoons are nocturnal, so many homeowners first notice them during the evening hours.

Warning Signs of Raccoons in Your Home

  • Scratching or rustling noises in the attic
  • “Chittering” sounds or movement overhead
  • Torn soffits or roof vents
  • Trash cans being tipped over
  • Damage around chimneys or decks
  • Strong odors in the attic or crawl space
  • Droppings or raccoon latrines near your home

If you are hearing loud noises in your ceiling at night or wondering what animal is in your attic in Des Moines, raccoons may be using your home as a nesting site.

Humane Raccoon Removal: What Happens When You Call Bats and Bugs Pest Solutions?

At Bats and Bugs Pest Solutions, we focus on humane wildlife removal that protects both your home and the animals involved.

Clean Up and Wildlife Exclusion Services

Removing the raccoons is only part of the process.

Once the animals are gone, our team helps:

  • Remove contaminated materials
  • Sanitize affected areas
  • Repair wildlife damage
  • Seal entry points
  • Install exclusion barriers
  • Prevent future wildlife intrusions

We also provide before-and-after photos so homeowners can clearly see the work completed.

Thorough Wildlife Inspection

When we arrive at your property, we begin with a detailed inspection of:

  • Attics
  • Rooflines
  • Chimneys
  • Decks
  • Crawl spaces
  • Entry points
  • Wildlife nesting areas

We look for raccoon latrines, nesting damage, contamination, and signs of structural entry.

Humane Wildlife Trapping

Our licensed wildlife removal experts use humane raccoon trapping methods designed to safely remove the animals without unnecessary stress or harm.

If there is a mother raccoon with babies (kits), we use specialized techniques including partitioned traps to safely reunite and relocate the family together whenever possible.

Need Raccoon Removal in Des Moines or Central Iowa?

If you are hearing scratching noises in your attic, dealing with raccoons under your deck, or concerned about wildlife damage around your property, Bats and Bugs Pest Solutions is here to help. Contact Bats and Bugs Pest Solutions Contact Page or call 515-218-3400 today for a free quote in the Des Moines metro area.

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