Raccoons in Your Attic? Why You Hear Noises...Then Silence...Then Noises Again

If you are hearing noises in your attic at night, followed by complete silence during the day and then the sounds start again… there is a strong chance you have a raccoon problem.

In Ontario, raccoons are one of the most common causes of attic noise complaints, especially during mating and nesting season.

This guide explains:

• Why raccoons enter attics

• Why the noises stop and start

• What kind of damage they cause

• What homeowners in Midland and surrounding areas should do

Noise. Silence. Noise again.

Raccoon Mating & Nesting Season in Ontario

Raccoon mating season runs from late January through March.

After mating, female raccoons have a gestation period of about 63 days, meaning most babies are born between March and early May.

This is when problems inside homes typically begin.

Pregnant raccoons are not just wandering. They are actively searching for a warm, secure den site to give birth and raise their babies.

Your attic is the perfect nursery.

Why Raccoons Choose Attics, Garages & Sheds

Attics provide:

• Warmth during early spring temperature swings

• Safety from predators

• Dry, insulated nesting material

• Quiet shelter for newborn kits

Raccoons are strong and determined. They do not squeeze through tiny holes like mice. They rip their way in.

Common entry points include:

• Roof vents

• Soffits and fascia

• Gable vents

• Weak roof edges

Garages and sheds are also common den sites, especially if doors are misaligned or siding is compromised.

Why You Hear Noises… Then Silence

This is one of the most common patterns homeowners describe.

Here is what is happening.

Nighttime: Heavy Movement

Raccoons are nocturnal. At night you may hear:

• Heavy thumping

• Walking across ceilings

• Scratching

• Dragging sounds

This is often the mother leaving the attic to forage for food.

Daytime: Quiet

During the day, it may go completely silent.

That is because:

• The mother is sleeping

• The babies are too young to move around much

This silence gives homeowners false hope that the problem is gone.

Then It Starts Again

As the babies grow, you may begin hearing:

• Chirping or crying sounds

• Light scratching

• Movement during daytime hours

When young raccoons become mobile, attic activity increases again.

This noise pattern is one of the strongest indicators of a mother raccoon with babies in the attic.

What Damage Can Raccoons Cause?

A raccoon infestation is not just a noise issue. It can quickly turn into significant structural damage.

1. Roof & Exterior Damage

Raccoons can:

• Tear open soffits

• Rip apart roof vents

• Bend aluminum fascia

• Remove shingles

Once they find a weak point, they often return year after year if it is not properly reinforced.

2. Insulation Destruction

Inside the attic they:

• Flatten insulation

• Tear it apart to build nests

• Contaminate it with urine and feces

Soiled insulation loses its R value, leading to:

• Higher energy bills

• Heat loss

• Moisture issues

• Potential mold growth

3. Electrical Hazards

Raccoons can chew on:

• Electrical wiring

• Junction boxes

• Cable lines

Exposed wiring in an attic creates a serious fire risk.

4. Contamination & Health Risks

Raccoon droppings can carry:

• Raccoon roundworm

• Leptospirosis

• Other harmful bacteria

Urine saturation also causes strong ammonia odours that can seep into living spaces below.

5. Secondary Pest Problems

Once a raccoon tears open an entry point, it becomes an open invitation for:

• Mice

• Squirrels

• Bats

• Birds

• Insects

One wildlife issue can quickly become multiple infestations.

Why DIY Removal Is Risky During Baby Season

During raccoon nesting season, removing the adult without checking for babies can result in:

• Babies trapped inside

• Severe odour issues

• Decomposition

• Structural damage from the mother trying to get back in

Proper raccoon removal requires:

• A full inspection

• Safe and humane baby removal if present

• One way exit systems

• Permanent wildlife exclusion repairs

Signs You May Have Raccoons in Your Attic

If you are in Midland or surrounding areas and notice:

• Noises in attic at night

• Silence during the day

• Sounds starting again weeks later

• Insulation falling from soffits

• A strong urine smell

• Visible roof damage

It is time for a professional inspection.

The Bottom Line

When attic noises stop and start, it usually means wildlife activity is cycling between foraging and nesting behaviour.

Raccoons are intelligent, powerful animals that can cause extensive damage in a short period of time.

The earlier the issue is addressed, the less invasive and costly the repair process will be.

If you are hearing something above your ceiling, do not ignore it. In nesting season, silence does not mean they are gone. It often means they are raising babies.

Balson has got you covered from beginning to end!

If you suspect raccoons in your attic, garage, or shed, book an inspection today and protect your home before the damage gets worse.

Call us! Check out our Wildlife page to learn all about removal.