Can Raccoons Climb Downspouts

If it is a stand alone aluminum pipe, probably not. However if there is brick close by raccoons can definitely climb the brick and use the pipe as a bridge to gain access to your attic. The picture in this post amply demonstrates how raccoons climb downspouts. You can see the paw prints on the pipe and the access to the attic. When we were researching this post we watched many videos showing raccoons climbing brick walls, pipes, fences and much more. They are smart and can problem solve which helps them find their way into many places.

Can Raccoons Climb Downspouts

Once they are in the attic, even if you block the entrance or the climbing area, they will find another way. If they have babies in the attic, they will literally tear your roof apart to rescue them.

Homeowners either have to wait until they can travel on their own or somehow get them out without being attacked by the mother. They will do a lot of damage if you do not get them out quickly. Install a one way trap door so they can leave the den but not get back in. There are many companies that will install the trap door and also install heavy gauge chicken wire on all other possible entry points. This is by far the best method to get rid of raccoons in your attic.