Living in Austin, Texas, means coexisting with a variety of wildlife. While it’s wonderful to see animals like raccoons and squirrels in their natural habitat, it’s far less enjoyable when they intrude into your home. Wildlife intrusions can cause damage, create health risks, and disturb your peace of mind. Today, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to share how you can handle these unwelcome visitors effectively and humanely.
Understanding Wildlife Behavior
First, it’s essential to understand the behaviors of common intruders. Raccoons are nocturnal animals known for their dexterity and intelligence, often getting into garbage cans and even attics. Squirrels, on the other hand, are active during the day and can chew through wires, insulation, and wood to create nests in attics or wall voids.
Identify Wildlife Entry Points
Identifying how wildlife is entering your home is crucial. Common entry points include gaps in roofing, soffits, vents, chimneys, and even open windows or doors. Conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior, looking for signs like droppings, chewed wires, or nesting materials. Once you identify these entry points, seal them using durable materials such as metal flashing, hardware cloth, or steel wool. Be sure to do this during the time when animals are likely out foraging to avoid trapping them inside.
Use Humane Wildlife Traps
If an animal is already inside your home, humane traps can be an effective solution. These traps allow you to capture the animal without harming it, so it can be safely relocated. Ensure you follow local wildlife regulations when trapping and relocating animals, as improper handling can cause more harm than good. It’s advisable to contact a professional wildlife removal service if you’re unsure about handling the traps yourself.
Prevent Future Wildlife Intrusions
Prevention is always better than cure. To keep wildlife from returning, take proactive measures such as installing chimney caps, securing vents, and using wildlife-proof garbage cans. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof, as these can serve as bridges for squirrels and raccoons. Additionally, avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outside, as these can attract wildlife to your home.
Keep Your Yard Clean
A clean yard is less attractive to wildlife. Remove fallen fruits, nuts, and other food sources that can draw animals. Regularly mow your lawn and clear out brush and woodpiles where animals might hide or build nests. Compost bins should be tightly sealed, and gardens should be protected with fencing if necessary.
Natural Deterrents
Natural deterrents can be a humane way to discourage wildlife from approaching your home. For instance, sprinkling cayenne pepper or spraying a mixture of water and hot sauce around entry points can deter squirrels. Similarly, raccoons dislike the smell of ammonia, so placing ammonia-soaked rags around potential entry points can keep them away. Motion-activated lights and sprinklers can also startle animals, deterring them from approaching.
Seek Professional Help
When wildlife intrusions become overwhelming or pose significant risks, it’s time to call in professionals. Wildlife control experts in Austin are trained to handle these situations safely and humanely. They can provide thorough inspections, effective removal, and advice on long-term prevention strategies.
Understand Legalities
It’s important to be aware of the legalities surrounding wildlife control. Some species are protected, and improper handling can lead to fines or other legal consequences. In Texas, for instance, certain wildlife, like bats, have specific protections and cannot be disturbed during particular times of the year. Always check with local wildlife authorities or hire professionals to ensure you’re compliant with all regulations.
Wildlife Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
By taking these steps, you can handle wildlife intrusions in your Austin home effectively and humanely. Remember, the goal is to protect your home while respecting and preserving the local wildlife. With vigilance and the right strategies, you can maintain a peaceful coexistence with nature. For superior pest control services, call A-Tex Pest Management and let us assist you!
