In addition to animal control and removal, Shumaker Animal Control also specializes in wildlife prevention. Rather than dealing with wild animals after they enter your home, wildlife prevention allows homeowners to prevent future infestations from occurring. One of the most effective prevention methods is exclusion, which focuses on denying pests access to the home.
Caulking and Sealing
Wild animals are sneaky creatures. Mice, rats, squirrels and other small animals are able to squeeze into the smallest of spaces when trying to get inside a home.
The key to wildlife exclusion is sealing and securing all possible points of entry. This includes improperly sealed vents, torn or missing window screens, cracked siding, and any other areas that might be overlooked.
When preparing to seal these cracks and crevices, consider using weather-resistant sealant to prevent the sealant from becoming weak over time.
Roof
Another common point of access for wildlife is through the attic and roof. Roofs should be inspected annually for signs of water damage and weak spots – animals can easily chew through or tear open the soft spots to gain entry.
If you have trees and bushes in your yard, make sure the branches are at least 6 feet from the roofline. Wild animals can use these branches as a bridge to climb on your home.
Homeowners should also keep their gutters clean and free of blockages. Small animals frequently make nests out of leaves, twigs, and other debris that get caught in the gutter.
To further prevent wildlife infestation, homeowners should also keep their attic dry and well ventilated. Many creatures are drawn to a dark and moist environment, which means eliminating these conditions will make the area unattractive to the animal.
Cover Chimneys and Vents
Many animals seek shelter by making dens in tree cavities and hollows. As a result, these animals will sometimes create dens and nests in chimney flues, given the chimneys similar appearance to trees. The best way to exclude these animals is by adding a heavy metal screening to the top of the chimney.
There are several different types of vents on each house, including dryer vents, roof vents, sewer vents, and kitchen exhaust vents. While necessary, all of these vents provide easy
access to wildlife. In order to protect your home, be sure to purchase vents with animal-proof designs. The best vents are made of metal or heavy-duty plastic, and come with sturdy shields to prevent animals from slipping through the gaps.
Have A Wild Animal Problem? Call the Experts at Shumaker Animal Control
If you think you have a wild animal problem on your property, or would like to add an exclusion, call the experts at Shumaker Animal Control to deal with the problem for you. Our experienced team will take care of the problem in a timely manner, ensuring that your home and pets are not in any danger.
At Shumaker Animal Control, we are a family-owned business who cares about the safety of you and your family but also about the well-being of the animals themselves. All of our trapping and control methods are humane, as we never try to hurt the angry or scared animal.
Call us at 443-854-8072, visit our website or fill out our contact form for more information.