What Animals Live in St. Louis?
St. Louis County is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, including bats, squirrels, raccoons, rodents (mice/rats), birds, moles, skunks, and groundhogs. Each of these animals has its own habits and behaviors that may contribute to conflicts with homeowners. This includes:
- Bats are nocturnal creatures that often roost in attics, barns, or other dark, undisturbed areas. While they help control insect populations, their droppings, called guano, can cause health issues.
- Squirrels are known for their ability to climb trees and leap from branch to branch. They may build nests in attics and chew on electrical wires, causing potential fire hazards.
- Raccoons are notorious for scavenging through garbage cans in search of food. They can also create dens in chimneys, attics, or crawl spaces, leading to property damage.
- Rodents like mice and rats are common pests in homes. They can chew through various materials, contaminate food, and transmit diseases.
- Birds, especially pigeons and starlings, can become a nuisance when they nest in vents or roost on rooftops. Their droppings can corrode buildings and pose health risks.
- Moles are small mammals that burrow underground, creating tunnels and molehills in lawns. While they primarily feed on insects, their digging activity can damage grass and plants.
- Skunks are known for their defensive spray, which they release when feeling threatened. They can dig under structures like decks or sheds and may spray pets if approached too closely.
- Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are herbivores that dig burrows in yards, causing damage to grass and landscaping.
Why You Need To Take Action
When it comes to wildlife inhabiting homes in St. Louis County, taking action is not only necessary but crucial. Protecting both the animals and the human residents is of utmost importance. The potential risks and consequences of allowing wildlife to roam freely can be detrimental.
Wild animals such as bats, squirrels, raccoons, and rodents can cause significant damage to properties. They may chew on electrical wires, creating potential fire hazards. Their nesting habits can lead to structural issues and expensive repairs.
Additionally, wildlife can pose health risks. Bats, for example, carry diseases that can be transmitted through their droppings. Rodents, on the other hand, can contaminate food and spread harmful bacteria.
Moreover, conflicts with pets can arise when wildlife is present. Skunks, for instance, may spray pets when feeling threatened, causing discomfort and potentially requiring medical attention.
To prevent such damages and risks, it is essential to take proactive measures.
In cases of persistent issues, seeking professional wildlife removal services is advisable. These experts are equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle wildlife conflicts efficiently and humanely. By taking action, we protect both animals and humans while ensuring the peace and safety of our homes.
How to Prevent Wildlife From Entering Your Home
Preventing wildlife from entering your home is crucial to ensure the safety of both your property and your family. Wildlife encounters can pose risks to human health, cause structural damage, and even lead to the transmission of diseases. By implementing proactive measures and following some basic guidelines, you can minimize the likelihood of wildlife infiltrating your house and mitigate the associated risks. From securing possible entry points to removing attractants, there are several steps you can take to prevent wildlife from becoming a nuisance on your property. In this article, we will explore some practical tips and methods to protect your home from wildlife intrusion and maintain a safe living environment.
Seal and Clean Up Food Waste
Sealing and cleaning up food waste is crucial in preventing wildlife from entering your home and causing potential conflicts. Animals are naturally attracted to accessible food sources, and when they find them near human dwellings, it can lead to problems for both humans and wildlife.
To effectively prevent wildlife from being drawn to your property, it is important to take a few simple steps. Securely storing trash is paramount by using durable and tightly sealed garbage cans. This ensures animals cannot access the contents and reduces the likelihood of them seeking food near your home.
Additionally, properly storing pet food is essential. Keep it indoors or in a sealed container to prevent attracting wildlife. Cleaning outdoor grills immediately after use and regularly maintaining bird feeders by keeping them clean and filled with appropriate birdseed are also important measures.
By sealing and cleaning up food waste, you can significantly reduce the chances of wildlife venturing near your home. This not only helps prevent conflicts but also promotes the well-being of both humans and native wildlife.
Trim Trees Near Your House
Trimming trees near your house is an essential step in preventing wildlife from entering your property. Trees can serve as access points for animals such as squirrels and bats to enter attics and other areas of the home, leading to potential damage and disturbances.
To prevent wildlife from taking advantage of these access points, it is important to regularly trim branches that are close to the house. This eliminates any pathways that animals may use to reach your home. It is also crucial to remove any dead or overhanging branches, as these can pose a risk and attract wildlife seeking shelter.
By trimming trees and removing potential entry points, you not only reduce the chances of wildlife getting into your home but also protect the structural integrity of your property. This proactive approach helps maintain a safe and comfortable living environment while minimizing the risk of wildlife encounters.
Taking the time to trim trees near your house is a simple yet effective way to prevent wildlife entry and ensure the overall well-being of your property and its inhabitants. Remember, a little maintenance can go a long way in safeguarding against unwanted wildlife presence.
Identify and Seal Open Entry Points
Identifying and sealing open entry points in your home is crucial to prevent wildlife from entering and causing potential damage. By following these steps, you can effectively secure your property and minimize the risk of wildlife encounters.
- Inspect the exterior: Start by thoroughly examining the outside of your house for any gaps, cracks, or holes. Wildlife, such as rodents or birds, can squeeze through even the tiniest openings. Pay close attention to areas where plumbing or electrical lines enter your home, as these are common entry points.
- Seal gaps and cracks: Once you have identified any open entry points, use appropriate materials to seal them off. For smaller gaps and cracks, caulking can be an effective solution. Apply a generous amount of caulk to fill in the openings, ensuring a tight seal. Silicone caulk is ideal for outdoor use as it is weather-resistant.
- Strengthen larger openings: For larger gaps or holes, consider using steel mesh or wire mesh. Cut the mesh to fit the size of the opening and secure it with screws or nails. This will make it difficult for wildlife to chew or push through the barrier.
By following these steps and being proactive in identifying and sealing open entry points, you can effectively prevent wildlife from entering your home. This not only protects your property but also promotes a safe and comfortable living environment.