The Wildlife Center of Texas would like to remind everyone that this is the optimal time of year to wildlife-proof your house. Over 85% of baby raccoons we received last year were made orphans unnecessarily. Following these simple guidelines from WCT and 911Wildlife can save you time, money, and keep wildlife families together.
1. Don’t put out a welcome mat. Trim overhanging branches that provide easy access to your roof for squirrels and other wildlife. Loose shingles are the equivalent of a flashing “Vacancy” sign for wildlife. Carefully inspect your roof and eaves. Repair deteriorating boards, warped siding, and damaged shingles. Cover attic openings with heavy gauge, rustproof wire mesh (not chicken wire). If you have a chimney, make sure that it has a secure cap. Chimneys without caps are open invitations to noisy chimney swifts and raccoons looking for “hollow trees” in which to give birth and raise their young.
2. Avoid providing a buffet. Don’t encourage nesting by providing food like accessible garbage, pet food, bird seed, and standing water. Tightly bungee cord trash cans and avoid feeding pets outside.
3. Don’t forget your friends in low places. Skunks and armadillos are ground-dwelling diggers. If you have a pier-and-beam foundation, cover vent openings with heavy gauge, rustproof wire mesh. If you have a deck, install an L-shaped barrier around it. Cover open bottom decks with lattice to discourage a potential nest.
4. Don’t waste time and money. If you already have animals in your home, be sure to use a reputable wildlife removal company that takes the time to inspect and prevent all entry points to prevent more calls in the future.
Also make sure your company takes the time to remove not only adults, but potential babies as well. If you’re hearing strange noises from your attic and you suspect that furry guests already have moved in, visit 911wildlife.com or call 911Wildlife at 713.287.1911 today to humanely evict and permanently exclude them. Don’t waste time and money on traps or home remedies that can make the problem worse.
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