Raccoons have a reputation problem. Knock over one trash can, steal a few ears of corn, and suddenly they’re public enemy ...

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Dee / iStock / Getty Images Plus Determine if raccoons are your problem by looking for paw prints, scat, or disturbed plants, fish ...

With their prominent “bandit” masks, furry ringed tails, and stout bodies with a waddling walk, raccoons are easy to spot.

When you think of garden pests, raccoons probably rank high on the list—those masked little bandits are famous for raiding bird feeders, knocking over compost bins, and digging through garden beds.

An expert weighs in.