Many wildlife control problems in homes are avoidable if your customer takes the proper precautions. Here are the most common suggestions Critter Control makes to its customers to prevent wildlife problems in and around homes.
- Close all gaps larger than ¼-inch.
- Check storage areas for rodents.
- Do not accumulate trash or debris.
- Stack firewood off the ground.
- Look for holes where roofs overlap.
- Repair damaged windows and screens.
- Thin or remove ivy and dense vegetation.
- Trim branches away from the roof.
- Chimneys are frequented by squirrels, raccoons, bats and birds, and represent the single largest opening in a typical home.
- Areas where pipes, cables and wires enter walls and soffits should be sealed completely to deter animal entry.
- Garbage can lids should be kept closed and secured.
- Roof, louver, soffit, fan and gable vents are all targets of pesky critters.
- Water damage can cause weak spots in a roof. Animals actively seek out these areas and have no problem entering through soft spots.
- All construction gaps in homes should be closed. Weather-stripping is especially vulnerable to wear and tear, allowing access for a wide variety of rodents.
- Loosely installed utility lines and vent pipes provide easy access for animals like mice, rats, chipmunks, squirrels and birds.
- Decks, porches and patios provide instant shelter for woodchucks, skunks, raccoons, opossums and feral cats. Rat walls and screening can prevent animal entry.
Explore the September 2002 Issue
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