At J’s Wildlife Solutions, we love wildlife—but not when it’s chewing wires in your attic or nesting in your dryer vent. The good news? You don’t always need a full exclusion service to keep animals out. With a few simple home fixes, you can make your space less inviting to raccoons, squirrels, bats, and other curious critters.
Here are some easy DIY tips to help protect your home:
1. Seal Entry Points
Wildlife loves finding tiny gaps and cracks to sneak through.
• Check roof vents, soffits, and attic openings—cover them with metal mesh or hardware cloth.
• Inspect around windows and doors—use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps.
• Look at crawl spaces and foundation cracks—patch with durable sealant or install vent covers.
Pro Tip: Use a flashlight during dusk to spot light shining through gaps from inside your attic or basement.
2. Keep It Clean Outside
Your yard can be a buffet for wildlife if you’re not careful.
• Secure trash cans with tight lids
• Clean up pet food, bird seed, and fallen fruit
• Trim back tree limbs near your roof—they act like bridges for squirrels and raccoons
Bonus Tip: Keep firewood and brush piles away from the house—they’re prime hiding spots.
3. Cap Chimneys & Vents
Chimneys and dryer vents are cozy nesting spots.
• Install chimney caps to block access while allowing smoke to escape
• Use dryer vent guards to prevent birds from moving in
4. Check Before You Seal
Before closing off any space, make sure no animals are already inside.
• Stuff the opening loosely with paper or cloth
• Wait a few days to see if it’s moved—if not, seal it up
Why It Matters: Sealing in a mama squirrel means she’ll tear her way back in. And she’ll bring friends.
5. Stay Seasonal
Wildlife behavior changes with the seasons.
• Spring & Fall: Prime nesting and denning time—do a full home check
• Winter: Animals seek warmth—inspect insulation and attic access
• Summer: Watch for burrowing under decks and sheds
Set a reminder: A seasonal inspection can save you a lot of trouble (and money).
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be a wildlife expert to take smart steps toward prevention. These simple fixes go a long way in keeping your home safe, sound, and critter-free. And if things get wild—we’re always here to help.
Stay safe, stay sealed, and stay wild-smart.
