Fall is here, and with it comes a variety of wildlife that may seek shelter in your Florida home. Some of these animals can be a nuisance, a health hazard, or even a danger to you and your family. Here are some of the common fall wildlife you may encounter this season, and what you can do to prevent or deal with them.
Common Fall Wildlife in Florida
Raccoons
These furry critters are notorious for raiding trash cans and making a mess. They can also carry rabies, which can be transmitted to humans or pets through bites or scratches. To deter raccoons, secure your garbage lids with bungee cords or locks, and keep pet food indoors. If you find a raccoon nesting in your attic or crawl space, call a professional wildlife control service to assist in its removal.
Squirrels
Squirrels are active year-round, but they may seek warmer places to nest in the fall. They can chew through wires, insulation, and wood, causing damage to your home and increasing the risk of fire. To prevent squirrels from entering your home, trim any tree branches that are close to your roof, and seal any gaps or holes in your siding or eaves. If you hear scratching noises in your walls or ceiling or find droppings in your attic, you may have a squirrel infestation. Contact a licensed wildlife control company to help you get rid of them.
Rats
Rats are rodents that can adapt to almost any environment and find their way into your home through cracks, holes, or vents. Rats can carry many diseases such as leptospirosis, salmonella, and plague, as well as parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites. They can also gnaw on wood, wires, insulation, and pipes, causing structural damage and fire hazards. The best way to prevent rat infestations is by sealing up any noticeable holes around your home’s exterior and maintaining a tidy house with sealed food containers and trash cans. Like most invading wildlife, you may hear scratching or scurrying within your walls or attic and find droppings around the infested area. If you experience either of these signs of a rodent infestation, contact your local rodent control company to alleviate your issues.
By taking some simple precautions and calling a wildlife professional for help when needed, you can protect your home and family from these unwanted visitors this fall.
