The most effective way to prevent wildlife from moving into your home is simple: stop them before they ever get inside. Wildlife control in Traverse City and across Northern Michigan begins with prevention. Proactive steps today save you from costly repairs and the dangers associated with animals living in your walls or attic.
In Michigan, seasonal changes have a big impact on wildlife behavior. During the cold Michigan winters, animals like squirrels, raccoons, and mice seek warmth in attics, basements, and walls. In spring, nesting birds and bats. search for safe spaces to raise their young. Summer brings increased insect activity, while fall drives rodents and other critters to stock up and find shelter for the winter.
That’s why the best time to implement wildlife prevention and pest-proof your home is during good weather. Tackling repairs in spring, summer, or early fall ensures your home is ready before harsh weather pushes wildlife indoors.
Key Areas to Inspect for Wildlife Entry
To keep your home wildlife-free, you’ll need to know where animals are most likely to sneak in.
Inside the home, inspect:
- Fireplaces and chimneys
- Attics and basements
- Vents, drains, and utility access points
- Windows, doors, and thresholds
- Behind and inside cabinets
On the exterior, check:
- Rooflines, rafters, and gutters
- Crawl space windows and vents
- Foundation, siding, and seams
- Areas where electrical and gas lines enter the home
- Worn window and door seals
Even tiny gaps matter. Mice can squeeze through holes no wider than a pencil, while birds, bats, and squirrels can exploit roof openings. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are key to keeping your home protected year-round.
How to Seal Entry Points
The right solution depends on the size and location of each opening:
- Small Holes: Fill with steel wool and secure with caulk or spray foam to deter rodents.
- Larger Holes: Cover with hardware cloth or steel mesh for long-lasting protection.
- Attics and Basements: Install hardware cloth over vents and window wells. Seal gaps around utilities with caulk or expanding foam, and ensure thresholds are tight.
- Thresholds: Replace worn weatherstripping, install door sweeps, and caulk around frames.
- Screens: Make sure all windows have screens; repair or replace damaged ones. Reinforced mesh is recommended in high-wildlife areas.
- Utilities: Seal gaps around pipes and cables with metal or rubber gaskets; use caulk for smaller openings.
- Foundation and Siding: Apply caulk or concrete filler to seams, replace damaged panels, and reinforce weak spots with metal mesh.
- Vents and Chimneys: Install durable vent covers and chimney caps to block animals while maintaining airflow.
Consistent upkeep, especially during spring and summer, prepares your home for winter wildlife activity and keeps your property wildlife-free year-round.
Regular Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Home Wildlife-Free
Lawn and Yard Maintenance:
- Keep grass trimmed and shrubs pruned to reduce hiding spots for rodents and snakes.
- Remove debris piles, tall weeds, and dense brush near the foundation.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house and off the ground.
Leaf and Debris Removal
- Rake leaves and clear fallen branches regularly.
- Prevent leaves and mulch from accumulating near foundations, vents, or crawl spaces where pests can nest.
Regular Cleaning Indoors
- Sweep, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces to eliminate crumbs, spills, and food sources.
- Empty trash frequently and store in sealed containers.
- Keep pet food sealed and off the floor.
Check Behind Storage Items
- Inspect areas behind boxes, appliances, and furniture for signs of droppings or gnaw marks.
- Avoid creating cluttered areas that provide hiding spaces for rodents or insects.
Garage and Outbuilding Upkeep
- Keep garage doors closed when not in use and seal any gaps along the bottom.
- Avoid storing cardboard boxes directly on the floor; use shelves instead.
- Seal any cracks or gaps in the walls, windows, and doors of garages and sheds.
Seasonal Inspections
- Check for gaps or damage around windows, doors, vents, and utility lines at least twice a year.
- Inspect rooflines, chimneys, and gutters for loose screens or holes.
- Perform weatherproofing and seal repairs during warm months to prepare for winter invasions.
Water Management
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear to prevent pooling water near the foundation.
- Fix leaky hoses, faucets, or irrigation systems that may attract wildlife.
Why Regular Maintenance is Crucial
Wildlife prevention isn’t a one-time task; it’s ongoing maintenance. Regular inspections during warm weather protect your home from winter invasions, while spring checks catch any damage caused by harsh weather or previous infestations. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of wildlife damage and reduces exposure to disease-carrying pests.
When to Call a Professional
Even the most prepared homeowners sometimes encounter wildlife indoors. If you notice scratching in the attic, droppings, or other signs of animals, professional wildlife removal in Traverse City and Northern Michigan is strongly recommended. Attempting removal yourself can be dangerous and may worsen the problem.
We specialize in safe, humane wildlife removal and full remediation services. Our team restores your home and ensures lasting protection against future infestations. Professional help ensures safe, effective removal and long-term protection for your home.
If you’re dealing with wildlife in your home, call us at (231) 238-3553 or contact us for a fast and FREE estimate today.