Living in Houston, you’re bound to encounter some unwanted furry visitors from time to time. Squirrels and raccoons in particular can become real nuisances, getting into attics, chewing on wires, and causing damage to homes. Getting rid of these persistent pests and keeping them from coming back takes strategic work. In this article, we’ll explore effective methods for raccoon and squirrel removal in Houston area.
Reasons for Removal
There are very good reasons to remove squirrels and raccoons from your Houston property. These species in particular can cause extensive damage if allowed to set up residence in or around your home.
Squirrels are incredibly agile and can squeeze through tiny holes. Once inside, they will chew on wires, insulation, and wood. Their droppings and urine can also cause stains and harmful bacteria. Squirrels are known to cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars in home repairs.
Raccoons can be even more destructive. They tear off shingles and siding to get into attics and crawlspaces. Raccoons rip up insulation for nesting and degrade ductwork. They can damage fruit trees and vegetable gardens. Raccoons carry diseases and parasites you don’t want around your family.
Removing Wildlife Humanely
When dealing with nuisance wildlife, it’s important to use humane removal methods whenever possible. Poisons, traps that maim or kill, and relocation far from the animal’s home territory should be avoided. Instead, focus on exclusion and deterrence.
Seal entry points like hollow trees, openings in roofs and attics, uncapped chimneys, gaps around pipes and wires, and other crevices. Trim back branches to discourage access to the roof. Install chimney caps, vent covers, and other exclude devices.
Use repellents like lights, sounds, and smells. Sprinkle granulated fox or coyote urine around gardens. Put up wind chimes near common entry points. Install outdoor strobe lights. Play loud music or talk radio intermittently.
You can also try taste repellents made with bittering agents. Hot pepper spray or ammonia soaked cotton balls may deter squirrels and raccoons from chewing on or lingering around your home.
Calling in Professionals
DIY approaches don’t always work when dealing with persistent wildlife. Many homeowners in the Houston area realize they need professional help removing nuisance squirrels and raccoons. A qualified wildlife control expert can identify all entry points, completely exclude animals from the home, and implement better long-term deterrents.
Professionals have the right tools and techniques to remove squirrels and raccoons as humanely as possible. They can install one-way exclusion doors on entry holes that let animals out but not back in. They may use baited live traps to capture and relocate animals together to avoid separating mating pairs or mothers and babies.
Professionals can also clean up the mess left by raccoons and squirrels by disinfecting areas, deodorizing, and making needed repairs. Many wildlife control companies in Houston offer attic cleaning and restoration services as part of removal. They can exclusions and deterrents to keep new animals from moving in after old ones are evicted.
Looking for a Service?
If you’re struggling to remove persistent squirrels or raccoons on your own, it may be time to call in professional wildlife control services. Qualified experts have the tools, techniques, and experience for humane and effective removal.
When looking for professional squirrel and raccoon removal in Houston, get estimates from at least 3 reputable companies. Ask detailed questions before deciding on a service.
Find out about their specific methods and commitment to humane practices. The company should humanely trap animals alive and relocate mated pairs or mothers with babies together. They should use mild repellents and exclusion over lethal means.
Ask if they will seal up all possible interior entry points and exterior access holes. This exclusion process keeps new animals from getting in. They should also install chimney caps, vent covers, wire mesh, and other deterrents.
Make sure the company offers attic and crawl space restoration after removing the animals. They should clean and disinfect the space, deodorize, and make any needed repairs. This restores your space and removes remnants that could attract new animals.
Check online reviews and ratings to ensure a good track record with customers. You want an experienced company familiar with Houston homes and wildlife issues. They should be licensed and insured for your protection.
Looking for referrals from neighbors who have used wildlife removal services can also point you in the right direction.
With the right wildlife control service, you can humanely remove squirrels and raccoons from your home. And you can prevent new critters from invading by sealing entry points and installing deterrents. Investing in professional wildlife removal and exclusion services can save you money and headaches in the long run by keeping persistent pests out of your house for good.
Conclusion
Don’t let persistent raccoons and squirrels take up residence in your Houston home. Their droppings, damage, and diseases make squirrel and raccoon removal in Houston and exclusion a must. With humane trapping and deterrents by wildlife professionals, you can avoid destruction and dangers from these unwelcome critters. Protect your home and family by taking proactive steps to keep squirrels and raccoons firmly outside where they belong.
