Spring is here, which means many of the wildlife pests that you haven't seen since winter have made a full transition out of hibernation. Unfortunately, there are going to be plenty of bats, raccoons, skunks and squirrels searching for shelter around your home, and some of them may even find their way inside. To keep this from happening, there are many simple steps you can take to evaluate the exterior of your home. You may find a few issues in the foundation that are inviting these pesky rodents inside.
Consider sealing the following areas to keep the wildlife pests from entering your home this spring:
This may be the immediate source of where the pests are entering, especially if your chimney does not have a cover. To keep the wildlife from entering through your fireplace or furnace chimney, The University of Illinois Extension suggested installing a chimney cap that must be bolted or screwed into place. Or, consider using mesh hardware cloth to cover the chimney, just make certain it is secured tightly or the furry critters will find a way to scuttle inside. But before you secure the opening, be sure to check that there are no living animals in your space - this is a step that is very important for the safety of your home and the animal.
The Humane Society of the United States suggests inspecting your attic for any sign of animals, such as droppings, nesting material or chew marks. Once you've identified that the pests have been in the attic, check for holes that may be in the roof, trim or exhaust vents. Then, if you find any openings, use caulk, hardware cloth or otherwise make permanent repairs based on the severity of the holes.
When the weather allows it, hanging out on your porch or deck is one of the best ways to enjoy the warmth of spring time. However, pests tend to gather underneath these areas and use it as shelter, which may put a damper on your outdoor get together. To keep this from happening, consider using hardware cloth to wrap around the foundation of the porch. The Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management suggested using a piece that is large enough to cover the distance from your deck's opening to about 4 inches below the ground - so you'll want to do some digging. This will make it difficult for the pests to find a way to intrude. If you're interested in a method that doesn't involve digging, simply install the mesh hardware cloth and lay patio block around the foundation on a vertical slope - this helps to decrease chances of flooding.
Here are a few more basic tips recommended by Home Advisor that can keep the wildlife pests from intruding and gathering in an unwanted area:
As the weather cools, you'll probably see fewer pests than you did during the warmer months, but that doesn't mean they're all gone just yet. Some insects can actually come out in full force during the autumn, while others might seek refuge in your warm home. Here are some key tips to keep in mind as fall gets underway:
As the middle of summer approaches, you need to be vigilant about keeping your garden free of pests. Many insects breed during the summertime, which means they're on the lookout for great places to lay their eggs. For many bugs, that means near a source of food. In fact, some species of insects will lay their eggs inside budding vegetables and fruit so their larvae have something to eat as soon as they hatch. That's why you have to keep harmful bugs out without damaging the bugs that could help you, such as bumble bees.
You might have noticed that, with the exception of the kitchen, you find more pests in your bathroom than in the rest of your home. This is because insects and rodents see the bathroom as a convenient watering hole. Pests love leaky pipes and standing water because these offer them a hydrating oasis in the otherwise dry biome that is your house or apartment. And if your bathroom develops mold, all the better for pests, who may eat fungus or use it to lay their eggs.
The kitchen is largest gathering place for pests in a residential home. The reason is simple: pests can grab a bite to eat and take a sip of water while they're here. And when they find such a bountiful place, they will return home to their nests and report the finding - before you know it, your whole pantry is a buffet for ants! The problem could get even worse if a piece of food falls somewhere and begins to rot. Similarly, fruit and vegetables you bring into your home may be harboring unseen pests waiting to hatch.
It's finally here - sweet, sweet summertime at last! But has your time outside already been rudely interrupted by swarms of pesky bugs trying to take a stab at you? This season, let's say no more to swatting, slapping or clapping at these insects who seem to be tormenting innocent outdoors enthusiasts every year. Fortunately, the solution isn't as chemical ridden as you might think. As it turns out, some of your favorite scents are insects least favorite.
Not every creature that visits your property is a dangerous nuisance. Many animals actually offer a number of benefits that keep your yard healthy. Predatory animals, in particular, actually offer natural pest control. Here are five common suburban creatures that can help keep more difficult or annoying animals at bay:
Discovering a mouse is loose in your home can be a real headache, and for restaurant owners, such an infestation can be an even bigger problem. Mice may be cute, but they simply do not belong in the kitchen, attic or anywhere else. If you've noticed any of these signs around your house or business, it may be time to call in a professional rodent exterminator:
The customer is always right, and this is especially true if he or she is complaining about seeing a mouse or cockroach. Pests have no place in your organization, as bugs and rodents will turn away potential business or even lead to a possible lawsuit. Keeping your company protected requires a proactive approach. Work with a pest removal specialist to identify the best ways to stop creatures from infesting your business. Here are just a few ideas for successfully mitigating and preventing any issues:
