Ringtails, sometimes referred to as “ringtail cats” or “miner’s cats,” are nocturnal mammals native to Texas and other parts of the southwestern U.S. Though they look like small foxes or raccoons, they’re more closely related to raccoons and are characterized by their long, bushy, ringed tails, pointed faces, and large eyes.

While ringtails are protected wildlife in Texas and cannot be killed or harmed, they must be removed using legal, humane, and strategic wildlife control methods. At Jesse’s Critter Control,
we specialize in resolving ringtail infestations while adhering to Texas state wildlife regulations.

While adorable to some, ringtail cats can become a serious nuisance when they enter homes or commercial buildings in Austin. As they search for shelter, food, and safe nesting grounds, they often invade attics, garages, chimneys, or wall voids. These animals are particularly drawn to dark, warm, elevated areas—making your attic or crawl space a perfect hideout.

Common problems caused by ringtail cats include:

Noisy disturbances at night: As ringtails are nocturnal, homeowners may hear loud scurrying, thumping, or scratching sounds in the attic during sleeping hours.

Foul odors and droppings: Ringtail feces and urine accumulate over time and can leave behind strong, unpleasant smells, potential stains, and disease risks.

Chewing and structural damage: These agile creatures can chew through insulation, wood beams, drywall, and even electrical wires, increasing fire risks and repair costs.

Contamination of insulation: Their nesting behaviors often result in heavily soiled insulation, reducing energy efficiency and requiring complete attic remediation.

Preventative Solutions

We begin with a full inspection of your property—from the ground to the rooftop—to identify how ringtails are getting into your structure. This initial phase is crucial for determining the scope of the infestation and developing a custom plan for removal and prevention.

Cleanup & Restoration

After removal, we provide attic clean-up and damage repair services to restore your space to a safe, healthy condition. Ringtail droppings can carry dangerous bacteria and parasites, making professional cleanup essential. If your attic insulation has been soiled or contaminated, we offer complete decontamination services.

Critter Control Services

Our humane wildlife removal services are available 24/7, offering expert assistance in removing ringtail cats from residential and commercial properties.