Keeping Out Unwanted Guests

There is now less wild, open spaces for animals to live than was once available. As human populations continue to grow and our suburbs expand, wildlife habits are now found in our own backyards. Cities and suburbs are home to many kinds of wildlife, which don't simply adapt, but thrive. Skunks under decks, squirrels in attics and raccoons in chimneys are just a few of the too-close-for-comfort encounters people have with wildlife.

Follow up:

The presence of wildlife in our backyards can be a great source of enjoyment. However, once they decide to move into our houses with us, they can become a source of aggravation. There are several simple steps you can take to help you live in harmony with our furry and feathered friends.

It is important for you to make certain that there are no animals currently living in your house before you begin the process of sealing off entries. If you find holes, stuff them loosely with a paper towel. If the paper stays in place after 3 days, you can safely close it up with caulk or hardware cloth.

If you have wildlife living in your house, you may want to consider hiring a professional wildlife removal company to help humanely trap and remove the animal.

Things you can do to discourage uninvited guests include......

Make sure you have properly capped your chimney.
Trim branches that extend over your roof.
Attic exhaust fan openings, soffit vents, attic vents, kitchen vents, bathroom vents and exhaust fans should be securely covered with 1/2"x1/2" hardware cloth.
Stoops, cement slabs and sheds can be protected by digging a trench at least 8" wide and 10" deep around the base. Place an "L" shaped hardware cloth in the trench so that the top of the "L" extends at least 1" above the bottom of the stoop, slab or shed then fill the trench.
Annually inspect roof, soffits, fascia, siding and trim board. Look for signs of water damage, loose vent screens, loose board, warped siding, and trim board that is pulled away. Make permanent repairs once you are certain that wildlife have not already moved in.
Do not leave pet food outside.
It is best to store garbage cans in a closed structure such as a shed or garage, but if you must leave them outside, be sure to secure the lids well enough to keep raccoons and other wildlife out.
Remember that pet doors are an open invitation to enter your house.