While we prepare to have family members together for the holidays, it is important to be wary of uninvited guests, especially furry ones. Many homeowners discover a pest problem when cleaning the home for the holidays, or pulling the holiday decorations out of the attic. This article will discuss common places for homeowners to find pest animals in the home around the holidays.
Why Pest Animals Invade in the Winter
Many animals, such as squirrels and raccoons, want to hunker down for the winter. A warm home or weather-proof shed can be the perfect spot for them to stay out of the cold when the snow starts to fall. However, this can be dangerous for you and your family. Many wild animals carry a host of diseases and bacteria which can spread to your family while living in close proximity. Additionally, pest animals can create massive damage to your home, including property damage, structural damage, reducing insulation, or even creating fire hazards.
Chimney Nests
Chimney flues are often closed up for most of the year in the New York/New Jersey area. But, in the winter they can be a great way to cozy up on a cold night. Because of the inactivity for most of the year, chimneys can be a popular resting place for wild animals. Be sure to check the chimney for damage and debris before using it for the first time in the season. Keep the flue closed when the chimney is not in use, as animals can enter your home this way.
Attics and Crawlspaces
Animals often try to nest in areas with limited human activity and easy access. Crawlspaces and attics are often invaded by critters because of this. They are usually discovered here because of the noises they make. During the winter, these invaders may be spotted while families are pulling holiday decorations out of storage. Animals will usually gain access to these areas through external damage to the home.
Backyard Sheds
Storage sheds in your backyard can be a common nesting ground for pests such as raccoons, squirrels, and more for the winter. Sheds are often weather-proof. If not, they at least provide some shelter from the cold winds and snow. These pests can often go unnoticed until the Spring or Summer unless you need the snowblower.
Checking Your Home for Animal Intruders
Homeowners often discover wild animals in their homes because they hear them, or they find evidence of the animal living there. If you think your home may have a wild animal problem, contact a professional, humane wildlife removal specialist. NewYork/NewJersey
Wildlife Removal, Inc. specializes in the humane removal of wild animals, as well as the cleanup and repair needed to restore the damage they caused.