As summer arrives in Traverse City, the warm weather brings more than just beach days and backyard barbecues—it also draws wildlife closer to our homes. While deer, raccoons, skunks, squirrels, and groundhogs may be charming in the wild, they can quickly become nuisances when they invade your yard, garden, or outdoor living spaces. At Critter Control of Traverse City, we specialize in humane wildlife removal and prevention, and we’re here to share tips on how to keep wild animals where they belong—safely outside and away from your property.
Why Summer Increases Wildlife Activity
During summer, food and water sources are more abundant—and your yard might be one of them. Gardens, trash bins, bird feeders, compost piles, and pet food can all attract hungry animals. Additionally, summer is peak nesting and breeding season, meaning critters are searching for safe, quiet places to raise their young.
Top Summer Pest Prevention Tips
Secure Garbage and Compost
Wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, and opossums are notorious scavengers. Use animal-proof lids and store garbage in a secure location. Compost bins should be tightly sealed and not include meat, dairy, or oily scraps that attract animals.
Remove Outdoor Food Sources
Avoid leaving pet food outdoors, especially overnight. Clean up fallen fruits, vegetables, or birdseed promptly. If you enjoy feeding birds, use feeders that deter squirrels and place them away from your house.
Close Off Entry Points
Inspect your home’s foundation, attic vents, chimneys, and rooflines for potential entry points. Small gaps can invite rodents, bats, or squirrels inside. Sealing these openings with durable materials like hardware cloth or caulk can prevent infestations.
Keep Landscaping Tidy
Overgrown bushes, stacked firewood, and brush piles offer excellent hiding spots for wildlife. Keep your lawn mowed, trim vegetation, and store firewood at least 20 feet from your house and five inches off the ground.
Use Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers
Many wild animals are skittish and will avoid well-lit or unpredictable environments. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle them and discourage repeated visits.
Install Fencing When Necessary
For persistent visitors like groundhogs or deer, fencing may be necessary. Choose fencing that is buried several inches underground to prevent burrowing and tall enough to deter jumping animals.
What to Do If Wildlife Becomes a Problem
Despite your best efforts, wildlife may still find its way onto your property. That’s when Critter Control of Traverse City steps in. We offer:
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Humane trapping and removal
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Wildlife exclusion and damage repair
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Attic and crawl space cleanup
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Preventative solutions customized to your home
Our trained technicians know the local species, laws, and the safest methods to resolve conflicts between people and animals—without harm to the wildlife.
Keep Summer Safe and Wild-Free
Protecting your yard this summer doesn’t require drastic measures—just a little preparation and expert help when needed. Whether you're dealing with an existing nuisance or want to prevent future problems, Critter Control of Traverse City is your trusted local partner in humane wildlife control.
Contact us today for an inspection or to learn more about how we can help keep your home and yard critter-free this summer.