If you have wildlife on your property, it's important to get the problem under control as soon as possible. While critters like raccoons and squirrels can be cute, these animals carry and spread diseases and cause damage to homes. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep them out. Keep reading to learn more about wildlife infestations in Kittitas County and how to prevent them.
The Types Of Wildlife That Typically Invade Properties
There are several different types of animals commonly found on local properties. Here are some of the most common wildlife species, along with their identifying characteristics.
- California Gray Squirrel: Gray-brown in color with a white belly. These rodents are about a foot in length and often have bushy tails.
- Chipmunk: Also part of the rodent family, chipmunks are between five and six inches in length. They have reddish-brown bodies with dark stripes down their backs.
- Douglas Squirrel: These squirrels are around 12 inches in length and dark brown in color. They are very vocal and also have bushy tails.
- Marmot: These large rodents are the size of a common house cat. They're brown and make a very particular whistling sound to ward off predators.
- Raccoon: Raccoons are easily recognizable animals with their masked faces and ringed tails. They can grow to be three feet in length and weigh up to 30 pounds.
- Skunk: These stinky critters spray a foul-smelling scent when they believe they're in danger. They can grow to be about the size of a house cat and have black bodies with a white stripe down their backs.
If you suspect any of these creatures are living on your property, it's best to call in the help of a local wildlife removal specialist, like Prosite.
Are Wildlife Infestations Common For Kittitas County Properties?
Critters are attracted to properties for a number of different reasons, and it's not uncommon to find them in homes and yards. Most animals invade homes in search of food, water, and shelter, especially in harsh weather. When they find their way indoors, animals tend to stay hidden in places like the attic, basement, and crawl spaces. If left undetected, animals can cause severe structural damage to homes. Rodents are notorious for chewing through electrical wiring, exposing your home to a fire risk.
There are many signs of a potential wildlife infestation. Here's what to look for:
- Strange squeaking, rustling, or scratching noises, especially at night
- Overturned garbage cans or trash spread throughout your property
- Strong, foul-smelling odor
- Fecal or urine staining on carpeting and floors
- Gnaw marks on walls and flooring
- Chewed electrical wiring
Contact a professional exterminator with wildlife management experience to take care of the problem safely at the first signs of critters in your home.
Natural Ways To Deter Wildlife From Your Yard
Wildlife infestations can cause massive headaches for homeowners. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent them from happening. Try implementing some of these tips today:
- Repair all holes and cracks in exterior walls. Seal gaps between windows and doors, and make sure your chimney has a cap.
- Keep your kitchen clean and free of crumbs. Clean countertops regularly and store food in airtight containers with locking lids.
- Take the garbage out regularly. Keep outside trash stored in sturdy containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Declutter storage areas and throw away old cardboard boxes and paper products.
- Remove yard debris, clean up leaf piles, and store piles of firewood away from your home's exterior.
The best way to deal with animals on your property is to contact your local wildlife control services or a trusted source of pest control in Kittitas County, like Prosite.
The Safest Way To Deter Nuisance Wildlife In Kittitas County
If you have a wildlife problem in your home, contact the experts at Prosite. Our comprehensive wildlife control services include on-site inspection, removal of any animals, and sealing areas to prevent them from returning. Give us a call today to make an appointment.