Have you ever heard spooky noises around your home in the fall and winter? Birds, mice, squirrels, groundhogs, bugs, and rodents all need a place to go when the temperature drops. Here are some common critter hideouts and what you can do to keep them out.
Birds in the Chimney
Birds like the tight spaces in chimneys and may try make a nest inside. This can create an unsanitary situation in your home.
Keep the critters out
• Consider installing a chimney cap
• Keep the flue closed when not in use
• Consider hiring a chimney sweep
Mice In the Walls
Walls are a favorite hang out for mice which can be dangerous if they start to chew on the wiring.
Keep the critters out
• Check for properly sealed doors and window frames
• Inspect seams between the roof and siding
• Seal any hole larger than a dime
• Keep hedges trimmed at least 18 inches away from your foundation.
• Keep your garbage bins closed tightly
Flying Squirrels in the Attic
Having a flying squirrel in your attic is a surprisingly common occurrence. They can damage a home’s siding and may also gnaw on electrical wiring.
Keep the critters out
• Consider installing a chimney cap
• Check for properly sealed doors and window frames
• If you have fruit bearing plants, be sure to regularly collect the yield
Groundhogs Under the Shed
Groundhogs live in burrows underground, which can lead to damage if the burrows are under a shed or other structure.
Keep the critters out
• Keep grass mowed
• Remove brush
• Keep wood piles maintained
Mice in a Camper
Since RVs can stay vacant for long periods of time, mice can make themselves at home without anyone noticing.
Keep the critters out
• Inspect the vehicle for cracks and holes, especially larger than a dime
• If you aren’t going to take the camper out for a while, remove all food
• Remove nesting materials like artificial plants and cardboard
Rodents in the Shed
Rodents can make a very comfortable home for themselves in your shed.
Keep the critters out
• Check Shed for holes or cracks especially around the roof
• Seal any hole larger than a dime
• Check for properly sealed doors and window frames
Bugs in the Firewood
Pests love to set up camp in firewood stacks.
Keep the critters out
• Only store dry wood
• Store wood off the ground on a rack or platform
• Keep wood at least 3 feet away from house
Want some extra tips on how to keep pets away from your house this fall? We’ve got a Pest-Proof Storage Guide to help with that!
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