In Arlington, TN, determining whether the damage to your lawn was caused by raccoons rather than other wildlife like skunks, armadillos, opossums, moles, or rats can be a bit tricky, but there are some key indicators to look for. Raccoon damage often appears as patches of upturned grass or small holes, as they use their dexterous paws to search for grubs and insects beneath the sod. Their prints may be visible in the soil, showing a five-toed, hand-like pattern.

Skunks tend to create more shallow and cone-shaped holes while searching for insects, and their presence can be accompanied by a distinctive musky odor. Armadillos leave long, shallow, and distinct burrowing marks, while opossums and rats generally don’t dig up lawns but may scavenge around the edges.