With winter approaching, many Fort Worth critters are preparing for hibernation. Unfortunately, there are some that would rather find warmth in the comfort of your home than try to sift through scarce space in the wild. To keep wildlife from entering your residence this winter, follow these pest prevention tips.Â
Inspect Your Attic
It’s easier to find entryways in your walls than entryways in your attic. However, certain spots on the roof, like shingles, soffits, and vents, are some of the most common ones that critters use. Before the cold weather hits, inspect your attic to discover any damage. If you find holes made by an animal, it’s best to hire a professional to remove the critter before sealing them up.Â
Keep Hedges Away From Your Home
Do you wonder how animals keep sneaking into your attic? It most likely happens when trees or large hedges are too close to the house. This gives squirrels and other critters a direct bridge to the top of your home. Once the temperature drops, animals will be looking for any way to escape the cold. Therefore, it’s best to trim your hedges 12 inches away from your roof and make sure no branches are hanging over the edge. Â
Secure Trash Containers
The holiday season is notorious for one thing: really good food. Your home will be hosting some holiday favorites like turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and glazed ham. Unfortunately, the wildlife in your backyard has the same appetite for hearty helpings. Because most wild animals are omnivores, they’ll eat just about anything you don’t finish. To keep nearby wildlife from cleaning up your scraps, avoid overfilling your trashcans. Instead, tightly secure the lids and wash your bins to prevent waste from piling up. Â
Clear Your Gutters
Cleaning out your gutters does much more than drain your roof. By regularly checking them, you can keep a close eye on wildlife nests forming inside. The gutter tends to be a common area for animals to builds nests, which can cause your gutters to leak and even break over time. This is especially true for bird nests. If they are established, you won’t be able to move them until the babies are fully-grown.Â
Patch Any Holes in the Wall
Never underestimate the spaces a critter can fit through. Even small cracks and holes should be patched up to safely protect your building from persistent wildlife. Common areas that usually have holes are baseboards, window frames, and front doors. Smaller openings can be sealed with caulking material, while larger openings can typically be handled with caps, screens, or vents.
Prevent Wildlife This Winter Season
Don’t let unwanted company join you for the holidays. The experienced wildlife removal technicians at Critter Control® of Ft. Worth will quickly and safely remove pests, so you can get back to winter festivities. To schedule your free consultation, call 817-222-1101 today.
