Keeping Wildlife Out of Your Home

Having wildlife in your home puts animals and people at risk; there are a number of ways homeowners can prevent unwanted encounters. Be sure to perform a thorough evaluation of the structure (perimeter and interior). Below our professionals explain the nuisances about wild animals and how to protect your home.

Wild animals do not belong indoors

Nature is a beautiful thing, but it is meant to stay outdoors. Every year, thousands of homeowners have run-ins with wildlife. Birds, bats, squirrels, raccoons, opossums, snakes and many other critters are encountered by unknowing residents. Unfortunately, out of fear of being attacked, many people kill these animals. While it is understandable to be cautious, this is not always the most effective solution. It is important to remember that prevention is always the best answer, and this requires responsibility on the homeowner’s part and professional know how. Animals are attracted to food; wildlife contact is rarely intentional. Although they may be harmless in their own right, wild animals are dangerous. They will attack out of defense and can also spread harmful diseases.

How to Keep Animals Out of Your Home

Being as they do not simply come in through the front door (although there are a few cases where this has occurred), the first step is to perform an inspection of your home’s perimeter. Identify holes and gaps around windows, doors, and the siding of your house. If you have a fireplace, make sure a chimney cap that will prevent bats and birds from coming inside is properly installed. Using caulks or other exclusion materials to seal entry points reduces wildlife presence inside the structure.

A Room by Room Analysis is Essential

Given that this can be an extensive project, it may be best to address individual areas. Make a list of the trouble zones and check them off as you go. Start with the spaces in your home that present a greater risk, such as the attic and basement. The best way to tell if wild animals have been in your home is to look for droppings. Likewise, be sure to keep an eye out for nests. Even if you do not see any animals, do not automatically assume that they are not present. A helpful trick for detecting holes that may not be visible is to turn off the lights during the daytime; if you notice sunlight coming through, you know what to do.

Hire a Pest Control Professional if Necessary

In the event that an animal is living in your home, you should never attempt to get rid of it alone. The best advice is to contact a pest and wildlife control expert; these people are trained to handle these situations and can do so safely for all parties involved. Never underestimate wildlife; when cornered, even the smallest of animals can attack with ferocious instinct. A pest and wildlife control professional will have the necessary equipment and experience.