How to wildlife-proof your home for the fall in Canada

As the vibrant colours of fall sweep across Canada, many homeowners start to prepare for the upcoming winter months. While we look forward to cozy evenings and hot chocolate, it's also a crucial time to consider wildlife that may seek refuge in our homes as temperatures drop. At Balson Pest Control, we believe that prevention is key. In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies to wildlife-proof your home and highlight our property assessment services to ensure you’re ready for the season ahead.

Understanding Wildlife Behavior in Fall

As the weather cools, many animals, including raccoons, squirrels, and even skunks, start to search for warm and sheltered places to spend the winter. Unfortunately, your home can appear as an inviting option. By understanding their behaviors, you can take proactive steps to prevent unwanted guests from moving in.

Common Fall Wildlife Issues

1. Squirrels: Often looking for cozy spots in attics, squirrels can cause significant damage by chewing through insulation and wires.

2. Raccoons: These clever critters are known for their dexterity and can easily open garbage cans or squeeze into attics and crawl spaces.

3. Bats: As temperatures drop, bats may seek entry through small openings, posing potential health risks.

4. Mice and Rats: These rodents are on the lookout for food sources and warm nesting spots, often entering homes through tiny gaps.

   
   

Tips for Wildlife-Proofing Your Home

1. Seal Entry Points

Inspect Your Home: Walk around your home and inspect for any cracks, gaps, or holes in the foundation, walls, and roof. Pay special attention to areas around vents, pipes, and electrical wires.

Use Caulk and Steel Wool: Seal small gaps with caulk and larger openings with steel wool. This not only prevents wildlife from entering but also keeps out pests.

2. Secure Garbage and Compost

Tightly Seal Bins: Invest in animal-proof garbage cans with secure lids. Raccoons, in particular, are notorious for rummaging through trash.

Compost Wisely: If you compost, ensure your bin is secure and consider using a rodent-proof model to deter wildlife.

3. Remove Food Sources

Pet Food: Don’t leave pet food outside overnight. Store it in airtight containers.

Bird Feeders: While enjoying birdwatching is a delight in fall, ensure feeders are hung high and not spilling food onto the ground, which can attract unwanted visitors.

4. Maintain Your Yard

Trim Trees and Bushes: Keep tree branches trimmed away from your roof and gutters to prevent easy access for squirrels and raccoons.

Clear Debris: Remove any piles of leaves, wood, or debris where animals might hide or build nests.

5. Inspect Your Attic and Basement

Check for Nests: Regularly inspect your attic and basement for signs of wildlife. Look for droppings, nests, or gnaw marks.

Ventilation: Ensure your attic is well-ventilated and that vents are covered with screens to prevent entry.

Our Assessment Services

At Balson Pest Control, we understand that preventing wildlife issues is not just about quick fixes but about comprehensive, long-term solutions. That’s why we offer property assessment services tailored to identify vulnerabilities in your home.

What to Expect from Our Assessment

• Thorough Inspection: Our experienced technicians will conduct a detailed inspection of your property, identifying potential entry points and signs of existing infestations.

• Personalized Recommendations: Based on our findings, we’ll provide tailored advice on how to seal and secure your home effectively.

• Ongoing Support: We offer follow-up services to ensure that your home remains wildlife-proof throughout the colder months.

Final Thoughts

As fall descends upon Canada, taking proactive measures to wildlife-proof your home is essential. By sealing entry points, removing food sources, and maintaining your yard, you can significantly reduce the risk of wildlife intrusions. If you’re unsure where to start, consider scheduling a property assessment with Balson Pest Control. Our team is here to help you enjoy a peaceful, pest-free autumn and winter.

Stay cozy and wildlife-free this fall!