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As the vibrant colors of fall begin to fade and the temperature drops, wildlife across Canada starts preparing for the colder months ahead. Unfortunately, that often means critters may seek refuge in and around residential homes, garages, or sheds.
Wildlife control and removal becomes especially common in cities like Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City and Halifax, which tend to see cold and freezing temperatures as early as October. While it can be exciting to spot a squirrel or raccoon in the backyard, finding one inside your attic or basement is a different story. Wildlife-proofing your home in the fall is essential to prevent these uninvited guests from moving in.
Here’s how you can protect your home from wildlife intrusion this fall:
Inspect and Seal Potential Entry Points
Wild animals such as squirrels, raccoons, skunks, possums, mice, and bats are resourceful when it comes to finding warmth. They can squeeze through tiny openings to enter your home, so it’s important to thoroughly inspect your house for any gaps or holes. Pay special attention to:
- Roof and Eaves: Look for damaged shingles, loose vents, or cracks in the fascia where animals can climb in.
- Attic and Chimneys: Ensure that your chimney is capped, and inspect attic vents. Consider installing sturdy mesh covers over vents to prevent access.
- Foundation and Siding: Check for any cracks or holes in your foundation or siding, especially around windows and doors.
Garage and Basements: Don’t overlook the lower levels of your home. Seal any gaps around garage doors and basement windows with weatherstripping or caulking.
Install Proper Vent Covers
Vent covers and chimney caps are essential for keeping wildlife out. Birds, bats, and raccoons love to enter homes through chimneys and vents. Install metal or heavy-duty mesh covers over these openings to prevent access. Make sure the covers are tightly secured and regularly inspect them for damage.
Trim Overhanging Trees and Branches
Trees and branches that overhang your roof can serve as highways for wildlife. Squirrels and raccoons can easily use these branches to leap onto your roof and find entry points. Trim back any overhanging limbs to make it more difficult for them to access your home. As an added benefit, this will also reduce the risk of storm damage to your roof in the fall.
Store Food and Waste Correctly
Fall is a time of preparation for animals, and they’ll be on the hunt for food sources. Make sure your food and waste storage isn’t attracting them. Here’s what you can do:
- Keep Trash Secure: Use wildlife-proof trash cans with locking lids. Store garbage bins inside the garage or shed until pick-up day.
- Remove Outdoor Food Sources: Clean up any fallen fruit from trees, and avoid leaving pet food outside.
Compost with Caution: If you compost, ensure that your compost bin is securely sealed and free of food scraps that might attract wildlife.
Set Up Motion-Activated Lights and Other Wildlife Deterrents
Wildlife, especially nocturnal creatures like raccoons and skunks, are less likely to approach your home if it’s well-lit. Install motion-activated lights around your property, particularly near entry points like doors, garages, and sheds. You can also use wildlife deterrents like ultrasonic devices, which emit high-frequency sounds that animals find unpleasant.
Secure Outdoor Structures
Garages, sheds, and decks are also prime locations for animals to seek shelter. Make sure these structures are secure by:
- Blocking Access Under Decks: Install lattice or hardware cloth around the base of your deck to keep animals from burrowing underneath.
- Securing Shed Doors and Windows: Check that shed doors close tightly and that any windows are in good repair.
Covering Garage Vents: If your garage has vents, make sure they are covered with a fine mesh that will prevent small animals from getting in.
Keep Your Yard Tidy
A messy yard with piles of leaves, firewood, or other debris can provide perfect hiding spots for animals. To make your property less attractive to wildlife:
- Rake Leaves Regularly: Don’t let piles of leaves accumulate near your home.
- Store Firewood Properly: Keep firewood stacked at least 20 feet away from your house and elevated off the ground.
Clear Debris: Remove any piles of brush, logs, or other materials that could serve as a shelter for wildlife.
Call in the Professionals When Necessary
If you notice signs of wildlife inside your home, such as droppings, noises, or nests, it’s best to call a professional wildlife control service. Attempting to remove animals on your own can be dangerous, both for you and the animal. Wildlife control experts can humanely remove the critters and help you further wildlife-proof your home.
Conclusion
From British Columbia to Newfoundland, Canadian homeowners taking steps to wildlife-proof your home in the fall is a smart and proactive way to prevent unwanted guests from making themselves at home before you have to call a wildlife removal company.. By sealing potential entry points, keeping your property clean, and using proper deterrents, you can enjoy the beauty of autumn in Canada.
Rentokil Terminix for Wildlife Control
Need wildlife prevention, removal and control on your property? Rentokil Terminix pest control are experts in wildlife prevention and removal services for both residential and commercial properties with locations across Canada including BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.
All of Rentokil Terminix’s pest control experts are fully licensed, certified, and held to the highest professional standards possible. We are part of the National Pest Management Association, Canadian Pest Management Association, QualityPro, and the Structural Pest Management Association of Ontario, among other provinces. We are proud to have provided Canadian homeowners with quality pest control services for over 90 years!
