Category: Blog

Though there are a variety of different squirrel species, the common tree squirrel is one of the most common nuisances faced by homeowners because of their ability to infiltrate homes and wreak havoc. Often times, squirrels are discovered because of the noise they make, but only after significant damage has been done.

Squirrel populations are on the rise because they have few predators and are so quick at reproducing. Additionally, as construction continues to intrude into their natural habitats, they have begun to seek shelter within our homes. While we strongly recommend against trapping squirrels on your own because of the risk they pose, there are things you can do to help deter them from invading.

• Remove food sources from outside of your home. Things like bird feeders are prime targets for squirrel activity.
• Use gutter guards or cover down spouts to reduce access to your roof and fascia boards – two common entry points for squirrels.
• Trim back tree branches that overhang your roof
• If you have firewood stacked up against your home, consider moving it elsewhere as it gives squirrels a place to hide and to make their way onto your home.
• Seal any cracks in your foundation or entry points like holes in your soffits or screen enclosures

When dealing with squirrel infestations, we always recommend calling the experts here at Critter Control® of Dallas. Squirrels may be small and cute, but their bites and scratches are anything but.

Raccoon problems are an unfortunate problem for an increasingly large number of residents here in Dallas. They’ve become almost dependent on rifling through trash for food, which brings them too close to our homes and businesses for comfort. Though we recommend calling a professional if you have a raccoon infestation on your hands, there are measures you can take to help keep them at bay.

Light

Raccoons are most active in the evenings and at night because they prefer working in the darkness. By simply installing a motion activated spotlight or leaving the porch lights on at night, you’ll discourage raccoons from coming near your home.

Spook them with your Voice

Raccoons are naturally spooked by humans, so placing a weather-resistant radio on your property at night that is set to a talk-radio station is actually very effective for deterring them. Don’t worry about the radio causing a disturbance either, it doesn’t need to be loud to be effective.

Seal off your Garbage Cans

Because raccoons have great dexterity with their paws, they’re able to get into most garbage cans with ill-fitting lids. Cans are available with locking lids to keep the furry critters out, or you can place something heavy like a large rock or cinder block on top as a deterrent.

Eliminate Water Sources

In addition to food, raccoons need a source of water that’s easily accessible. If you have any pet bowls outside, consider bringing them indoors to help ward off any unwelcome visitors. Also check for standing water or leaky garden hoses. Eliminating food and water sources is the best way to prevent a raccoon issue.

If you’re dealing with raccoon issues on your property, we strongly advise against attempting to remove them on your own. Take the steps above to help keep them away, and call the raccoon removal experts here at Critter Control® of Dallas at (214) 225-2217 today.