Winter Wildlife: Keeping Critters Out of Your Home

As winter sets in and temperatures drop, Denver homeowners often face an increase in uninvited wildlife visitors. Squirrels, raccoons, mice, and other critters are drawn to the warmth and shelter homes provide during the cold months. While these animals may seem harmless, they can cause significant damage to your property and create health risks for your family.

Understanding how to prevent wildlife from entering your home this winter is essential for maintaining a safe and comfortable living space. Animal & Pest Control Specialist is here to help Denver residents with expert solutions to keep these intruders at bay.

Why Wildlife Seeks Shelter Indoors During Winter

Winter in Denver can be harsh, and wildlife instinctively seeks safe, warm places to survive the season. Your home offers everything they need: warmth, food sources, and protection from predators. Unfortunately, once inside, these animals can cause:

• Property Damage: Squirrels and mice chew through wires, insulation, and wood, leading to costly repairs.
• Health Hazards: Raccoons and rodents can carry diseases such as leptospirosis and hantavirus, posing risks to your family’s health.
• Infestations: What begins with one or two animals can quickly escalate into a full-blown infestation if not addressed promptly.

Preventing wildlife from gaining access to your home is the first step in avoiding these issues.

Practical Tips to Keep Wildlife Out

Keeping critters out of your home during Denver’s winter months requires a proactive approach. Below are some effective strategies to safeguard your property:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for gaps, cracks, or holes in the foundation, walls, and roof. Pay special attention to areas around vents, chimneys, and utility pipes. Use steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth to seal potential entry points.
• Maintain Landscaping: Trim tree branches that extend close to your home, as they can serve as pathways for squirrels and raccoons. Remove piles of leaves, firewood, or debris near your house that might attract rodents.

Additional preventive measures include:

• Secure Garbage and Food Sources: Use wildlife-proof trash cans and store pet food indoors. Wildlife is often drawn to the scent of accessible food.
• Install Screens and Caps: Place sturdy screens over vents and cap chimneys to prevent animals from entering through these access points.
• Set Up Motion-Activated Lights: Bright lights can deter nocturnal wildlife from approaching your property.

By implementing these measures, you can reduce the likelihood of wildlife making themselves at home in your space.

Signs That Wildlife May Be Inside Your Home

Despite your best efforts, some determined critters may still find their way indoors. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of a wildlife intrusion early to address the problem before it worsens. Look out for:

• Scratching, scurrying, or other noises in walls, ceilings, or attics.
• Droppings or urine stains, especially in basements, garages, or under sinks.
• Chewed wires, insulation, or wood.
• Unpleasant odors from nesting materials or decomposing animals.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take swift action to remove the wildlife and secure your home against future intrusions.

Why Professional Wildlife Control Is Essential

While DIY methods can help with prevention, removing wildlife from your home safely and effectively requires professional expertise. Attempting to handle wildlife on your own can be dangerous and may lead to further damage or injury.

Animal & Pest Control Specialist offers comprehensive wildlife control services for Denver residents, including:

• Humane trapping and removal of squirrels, raccoons, and other intruders.
• Inspection and sealing of entry points to prevent re-entry.
• Cleanup and sanitization to eliminate health hazards caused by droppings or nesting materials.

Our team understands the unique challenges of winter wildlife in Denver and provides tailored solutions to keep your home safe and critter-free.

Stay Wildlife-Free This Winter

Denver winters may be cold, but your home should remain a warm and secure haven—for you and your family, not for wildlife. By taking preventative steps and addressing signs of intrusion quickly, you can protect your property and health during the colder months.

If you suspect a wildlife problem or want to ensure your home is properly protected, Animal & Pest Control Specialist is here to help. Our team of experienced professionals offers humane and effective wildlife control solutions to give you peace of mind all winter long. Contact us today for a consultation and keep the critters where they belong—outdoors.