5 Tricks to Get Wildlife Out of Your Home

Have you been hearing strange noises in your attic or walls? Or perhaps you've noticed some unusual droppings or damage around your home? These could be signs of a wildlife infestation. Wildlife in your home can pose serious health risks and cause significant property damage. In this section, we'll discuss the common signs of wildlife infestation and the types of wildlife commonly found in homes.

Common Signs of Wildlife Infestation

Wildlife infestation can manifest in various ways. You might hear scratching, rustling, or scampering noises, especially during the night when most wildlife are active. You may also find droppings or urine stains, which can cause unpleasant odors. Physical damage such as chewed wires, gnawed furniture, or holes in your walls or roof are also telltale signs. Wildlife might also leave tracks or footprints, especially in dusty areas or after a rain.

Types of Wildlife Commonly Found in Homes

The types of wildlife that commonly invade homes include raccoons, squirrels, bats, and rats. Each of these animals has distinct behaviors and signs of infestation. For instance, raccoons are known for their dexterity and can cause significant damage as they search for food. Squirrels, on the other hand, are notorious for nesting in attics and chewing on electrical wires.

The Dangers of Wildlife in Your Home

Wildlife in your home is more than just a nuisance. They pose serious health risks, including the transmission of diseases such as rabies, hantavirus, and leptospirosis. They can also cause significant property damage, from gnawing on electrical wires and woodwork to tearing up insulation and creating holes in your roof or walls. Furthermore, the presence of wildlife can lead to secondary infestations of pests such as fleas, ticks, and mites.

Understanding Wildlife Behavior and Habits

Understanding why wildlife invades homes and their common entry points can help you better prevent and manage infestations. In this section, we'll delve into the behavior and habits of wildlife, including why they invade homes, their common entry points, and their breeding and nesting habits.

Why Wildlife Invades Homes

Wildlife invades homes primarily in search of food, water, and shelter. Homes provide a warm, safe environment, especially during harsh weather conditions or breeding seasons. Human food and garbage can also attract wildlife. Changes in local habitats due to construction or deforestation can also drive wildlife into residential areas.

Common Entry Points for Wildlife

Wildlife can enter homes through various points. These include open windows or doors, cracks or holes in walls or roofs, vents, chimneys, and even pet doors. Some wildlife, like rats and mice, can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, while others, like raccoons and squirrels, can chew or claw their way in.

Wildlife Breeding and Nesting Habits

Understanding the breeding and nesting habits of wildlife can help you detect and prevent infestations. Most wildlife breed in the spring and will seek out safe, warm places to nest and raise their young. Attics, basements, crawl spaces, and wall cavities are popular nesting spots. Some wildlife, like squirrels and bats, may even return to the same nesting spot year after year.

Preventive Measures to Keep Wildlife Out

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to wildlife infestations. In this section, we'll discuss preventive measures you can take to keep wildlife out of your home, including sealing entry points, proper waste management, and landscaping tips to deter wildlife.

Sealing Entry Points

Sealing potential entry points is one of the most effective ways to prevent wildlife from entering your home. This includes repairing cracks or holes in your walls or roof, installing screens over vents and chimneys, and keeping doors and windows closed or properly sealed. Weatherstripping and caulking can also help seal smaller gaps.

Proper Waste Management

Proper waste management can significantly reduce the attraction of wildlife to your home. This includes securing your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, cleaning up after meals, and not leaving pet food outside. Compost piles should also be properly maintained and located away from your home.

Landscaping Tips to Deter Wildlife

Proper landscaping can also deter wildlife. This includes trimming tree branches that are close to your home, as they can provide easy access for wildlife. Keeping your yard clean and free of debris can also reduce hiding spots for wildlife. Certain plants and natural repellents can also deter wildlife.

Safe and Humane Wildlife Removal Techniques

If you've already detected signs of wildlife in your home, don't panic. There are safe and humane ways to remove them. In this section, we'll discuss the use of wildlife traps, natural repellents and deterrents, and when to call a wildlife removal professional.

The Use of Wildlife Traps

Wildlife traps can be an effective way to capture and remove wildlife from your home. However, they should be used responsibly and humanely. It's important to check traps regularly to avoid causing unnecessary stress or harm to the captured animal. Once captured, the animal should be released in a suitable habitat away from residential areas.

Natural Repellents and Deterrents

Natural repellents and deterrents can also help keep wildlife away. These include certain plants, essential oils, and even some household items like vinegar or mothballs. However, their effectiveness can vary and they may need to be reapplied regularly.

When to Call a Wildlife Removal Professional

If you're dealing with a persistent or large-scale infestation, or if you're dealing with potentially dangerous wildlife, it's best to call a professional. Professionals have the training and equipment to safely and humanely remove wildlife. They can also provide advice on preventing future infestations.

Post-Removal: Ensuring Wildlife Doesn’t Return

Once the wildlife has been removed, it's important to ensure they don't return. In this section, we'll discuss regular home inspection and maintenance, educating family members on wildlife prevention, and the role of local wildlife control and conservation organizations.

Regular Home Inspection and Maintenance

Regular home inspection and maintenance can help detect and prevent wildlife infestations. This includes checking for and repairing potential entry points, cleaning and securing your garbage and food storage areas, and regularly inspecting your attic, basement, and other potential nesting spots.

Educating Family Members on Wildlife Prevention

Educating your family members on wildlife prevention can also help keep your home wildlife-free. This includes teaching them about the dangers of wildlife infestation, the importance of keeping doors and windows closed, and the proper handling of food and waste.

The Role of Local Wildlife Control and Conservation Organizations

Local wildlife control and conservation organizations play a crucial role in managing wildlife populations and maintaining the balance of our local ecosystems. They provide valuable resources and services, including wildlife removal, habitat conservation, and public education. Supporting these organizations can help ensure a safe and harmonious coexistence with wildlife.

(954) 590-0477 Is Here for Your Home

If you're dealing with a wildlife infestation, don't hesitate to contact Hoffer Pest Solutions. Our team of trained professionals can safely and humanely remove wildlife from your home and provide practical advice on preventing future infestations. Contact us today for a consultation.

Call Hoffer Pest Solutions at (954) 590-0477 or send us a message online.