During the cold winter months, animals such as skunks, squirrels, raccoons and opossums are more likely to come into or around your home in search of food, water and shelter. These creatures can carry harmful pests into your home, such as fleas and ticks, and can also carry rabies. Not only do they pose potential health risks, these animals can also damage your plants and greenery in your yard, but there’s no need to fear.
Follow These Tips from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA):
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors and repair damaged screens.
- Install a mesh cover or cap over chimneys.
- Cover exhaust fan openings, soffit and attic vents, and tops of window wells.
- Replace loose mortar and weather stripping around the basement foundation and windows.
- Keep tree limbs cut back 6 to 8 feet from the roofline and store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house.
- Keep garbage in a secure container that cannot be opened by raccoons.
- Place birdbaths where wildlife cannot reach them or provide birds with water away from the home.
- Birdbaths, fountains or pet water dishes may draw wildlife pests, especially where water is scarce.
- Do not leave brush, leaf piles or other debris to accumulate.
- We all like a good cuddle, but please do not attempt to touch any of these wild animals on your own due to the health risks mentioned above. Call us to get a wildlife technician out to your home to safely remove these animals.