Protecting Your Home From Fall Wildlife, Part 2

Hopefully you read part one of our Wildlife Series which dealt with pesky rodents like mice, rats and roof rats. We also wanted to make sure you are aware of other fall intruders such as raccoons, squirrels, chipmunks and bats. Similar to rodents, these creatures are seeking food and shelter from the cold months ahead.

Squirrels and raccoons are similar to rodents in that they build their nests in crawl spaces and attics and will cause damage to a structure to get inside and once inside the home, they can be destructive as well. Raccoon hands are very adept, so it is important to keep trashcans properly sealed. If you notice a raccoon in or around the home, it's important to call a pest professional immediately as their droppings can spread roundworm.

You may think chipmunks are cute little animals that would never inflict any harm but unfortunately they can cause some serious damage. Chipmunks build intricate tunnels to transport food, rest and care for their young. These tunnels can cause structural damage and even divert rainwater into homes, causing basements to flood.

Lastly, this time of the year, we always receive calls about bat infestations. Bats look to nest in attics, basements, garages and crawl spaces. Bats typically do not cause damage to a home, but they can spread serious diseases and bacteria through their waste.

Here are some tips from our experts to protect your home from fall wildlife:

• Seal cracks and holes, including areas where utilities and pipes enter the home;
• Clean up spilled food immediately and wash dishes and cooking utensils soon after use;
• Keep outside cooking areas and grills clean;
• Do not leave pet food or water bowls out overnight;
• Keep bird feeders away from the house and use squirrel guards to limit access to the feeder ; and
• Use a thick plastic or metal garbage can with a tight lid - and keep sealed at all times.

We hope you enjoyed our two-part blog series and that our tips help you to keep wildlife out of your home and in the wild!