Identify Raccoon Noises in Attic

One of the first things homeowners notice with a raccoon infestation is the sounds. Raccoons are noisy. You can hear them moving in your attic at night or making vocalizations. 

Listen to a sample of some of the most common vocalizations raccoons make. Even when raccoons are quiet vocally, they still make noise in your attic. People tend to hear raccoon sounds most frequently at night due to the nocturnal behavior of the pests.

Not a raccoon? Listen to our animal in attic sounds guide. 

What Sound Does a Raccoon Make?

Thought you heard a raccoon? Listen to an audio recording (mp3 file) of raccoon noises and sounds (above).

Raccoon Vocal Noises

Raccoon sounds range from the vocalizations the animals use to communicate with each other, to the noises they make as a result of their rustling, scurrying, and other activity. Known to be extremely vocal creatures, raccoons interact by using more than 200 different sounds, which include purring, chittering, growling, snarling, hissing, whimpering, and even screeching like owls. Baby raccoon sounds include mewing, crying, and whining.

Raccoon Movement Noise

Even when raccoons are quiet vocally, they still make noise. The sound of an animal rustling or scurrying about the attic or in the chimney is a common sign that a raccoon has moved in. Typical raccoon sounds also occur when the pests walk across rooftops, construct their dens, or attempt to gain entry through holes or other small openings that lead to attractive denning sites. People tend to hear raccoon sounds most frequently at night due to the nocturnal behavior of the pests.

What Noises Do Raccoons Make at Night?

Homeowners will mostly hear raccoon noises at night. This is when the pests are most active in their search for food. As such, residents may be awoken by the sounds of raccoons knocking over or rummaging through trash cans. Individuals may also hear raccoon sounds from inside homes, like the pests rustling or scratching in between walls.

Attracted by the presence of food and access to suitable denning sites, raccoons are common invaders of homes. They take advantage of holes and other structural openings to get inside. Common entry points and denning sites include attics, chimneys, and the open spaces beneath porches, sheds, and houses. Even though raccoons build their dens in places where it may be difficult to detect the pests by sight, they often make sounds and noises that reveal their presence in the home.

When raccoon sounds lead to the discovery of an infestation problem, professional raccoon control is usually necessary. Raccoons will defend themselves when cornered and may become aggressive. They can also carry diseases, including rabies and canine distemper. To prevent the risk of injury or disease, contact a wildlife removal professional if you hear raccoon sounds in your home.

Raccoon Vocalizations in Backyard