Make Changes to Control Pests and Nuisance Animals
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
The sight of a raccoon scurrying through the backyard or a mouse running through the kitchen is enough to make most people run and hide. But hiding from a pest or animal problem will not make it go away. Here are some steps to take to control pests and unwanted animals.
If these measures don't work, it's time to talk with a pest control company. Look for a company that:
To stop larger animals:
Consider these facts about skunks:
It's best to leave these larger animals to professionals who know how to trap them and/or discourage them from taking up residence at your home. Some wild animals carry rabies and can be dangerous when provoked.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
Remodeling Can Keep Rodents Away
One way to keep rodents away is to remodel your house with an eye on sealing all small holes, such as:- Cracks around your foundation
- Dryer-vent openings
- Broken windows
If these measures don't work, it's time to talk with a pest control company. Look for a company that:
- Knows how to look for the source of the problem
- Understands the habits of each type of pest
- Provides a written estimate and list of references
- Offers realistic solutions and timeframes for controlling the pests
Beware of Large Animal Pests
While mice and other small rodents and insects can cause problems, there also are bigger animals that can invade a home or backyard. Raccoons, skunks, and opossum are just a few of the larger nuisances that might wander through your backyard.To stop larger animals:
- Keep garbage can lids closed--with bungee cords, if needed--to help keep squirrels, raccoons, and opossums away
- Remove the food sources from your patio, deck and backyard
- Remove any piles of materials--old woodpiles and building debris--that can provide a home for small animals.
Be Cautious During Home Remodeling
Home remodeling has many benefits, but it sometimes causes problems with area pests and animals. You may be elated that your neighbor is remodeling his run-down garage, but that elation will turn to dismay when you realize that the skunk that had taken up residence there is now homeless--and looking to your garage for shelter.Consider these facts about skunks:
- They are nocturnal and will forage for food anywhere without fear of other animals
- They dig through backyards, eating plants, vegetables, fruit, fish, and garbage
- They often live under crawl spaces, porches, and slabs
It's best to leave these larger animals to professionals who know how to trap them and/or discourage them from taking up residence at your home. Some wild animals carry rabies and can be dangerous when provoked.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
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