Lakeland, Florida, with its abundant green spaces and proximity to wildlife-rich areas, is a beautiful place to live. However, the very features that make Lakeland attractive to humans—such as lush yards and access to natural habitats—also make it an ideal environment for local wildlife. Raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and even snakes can find their way into homes, seeking food, shelter, and warmth. To prevent costly damage and health risks, it's essential to take proactive steps to keep wildlife out of your Lakeland home.

Understanding How Wildlife Invades Homes

Wildlife typically seeks shelter in homes when their natural habitats are disrupted or when they are looking for food and warmth. The most common ways wildlife gain access to homes include:

  • Small Gaps and Openings: Many animals are excellent climbers and can squeeze through even the tiniest cracks or gaps in roofs, windows, or doors. Raccoons, squirrels, and bats can fit through openings as small as 1.5 inches wide.

  • Attics and Basements: These areas provide a perfect hiding spot for animals to nest and breed. Often, attic vents, chimney openings, or worn-out roofs offer easy access for wildlife.

  • Climbing Trees and Branches: Tree branches that are too close to your roof or windows can act as highways for animals to get inside your home. Squirrels and raccoons are particularly adept at using tree branches to climb up to attics or roofs.

  • Unsecured Garbage and Pet Food: Wildlife is often attracted to easy food sources. If you leave pet food outside, or if garbage cans are not securely closed, animals may find your home an easy target for a meal.

Steps to Prevent Wildlife from Entering Your Lakeland Home

Preventing wildlife from entering your Lakeland home involves securing entry points, removing attractants, and maintaining a clean and safe environment. Here are some essential steps you can take:

1. Seal All Entry Points

The first step in wildlife prevention is to eliminate all potential entry points. This includes inspecting your roof, windows, doors, and foundation for any cracks, holes, or gaps. Even the smallest opening can serve as an entryway for wildlife. Pay particular attention to areas where pipes, wires, or vents enter your home. These are common points of access for raccoons, squirrels, and bats.

Additionally, ensure that your attic vents and chimney are securely sealed. Install sturdy screens over any openings to prevent animals from squeezing through. If you have a chimney, consider installing a chimney cap to prevent birds or animals from entering.

2. Trim Tree Branches and Shrubs

Tree branches that overhang your roof or windows can act as bridges for animals like squirrels and raccoons. By trimming branches away from your home, you'll make it more difficult for animals to gain access to your roof or attic. Be sure to also cut back any dense shrubbery that might provide shelter for animals near your house.

3. Keep Food Sources Secured

Wildlife is often attracted to easy food sources like trash, pet food, or bird seed. To reduce the chances of animals being drawn to your home, make sure your garbage cans are tightly sealed and stored away from the house. Use heavy-duty, animal-proof containers if possible.

If you feed pets outside, clean up any food left behind after meals. Additionally, remove bird feeders and fallen fruit from trees regularly, as these can also attract wildlife. Securing these food sources will discourage animals from lingering around your property.

4. Install Animal Deterrents

There are several ways to deter wildlife from approaching your home. Motion-sensor lights or noise devices can startle animals and keep them away. Additionally, using natural repellents like peppermint oil, garlic, or hot pepper spray around entry points may help to discourage wildlife from entering.

Consider also installing a fence around your property, particularly if you live near natural areas. A tall, solid fence will help prevent larger animals like coyotes or deer from entering your yard. Be sure that the fence is buried a few inches underground to stop animals like raccoons from digging underneath it.

5. Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Routine maintenance is key to preventing wildlife infestations. Regularly inspect your roof, attic, basement, and foundation for signs of damage or wear. Repair any issues promptly to prevent animals from finding a way in. It's also a good idea to check your home for signs of existing wildlife, such as droppings, chewed wires, or nesting materials in attics or walls.

What to Do if You Encounter Wildlife in Your Lakeland Home

If you suspect wildlife has already made its way into your home, it's important to address the situation quickly to prevent damage and health risks. Wild animals can carry diseases like rabies, leptospirosis, and hantavirus, so it's essential to avoid contact with them.

  • Contact a Professional: For safety and humane removal, it's best to contact a wildlife removal Lakeland expert. Wildlife removal professionals have the training and tools needed to safely capture and relocate animals without harm.

  • Seal Off Access Points: Once the animals have been safely removed, be sure to seal off all entry points to prevent future intrusions.

  • Disinfect Affected Areas: If the animals have been in your attic or walls, it's essential to disinfect the areas to remove any pathogens or parasites they may have left behind.

Conclusion

Preventing wildlife from entering your Lakeland home is crucial for protecting your property and family. By taking steps to seal entry points, remove food sources, and maintain your home, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infestation. However, if you do encounter wildlife in your home, it's important to contact wildlife removal Lakeland services to handle the situation safely and efficiently. With the right precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of Lakeland's wildlife without the risks associated with having them in your home.