As summer arrives in Green Bay, people and wildlife alike become more active. Longer days and warmer weather mean more time spent outdoors, but they also bring a spike in wildlife encounters—some of which can pose serious health risks. One of the most concerning dangers during the summer months is exposure to rabies.

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It’s typically spread through the bite or saliva of an infected animal, and while cases in humans are rare in the U.S., the threat is real—especially during summer when people and pets are more likely to come in contact with wildlife.

Why Summer Increases Rabies Risks

There are several reasons rabies risk peaks during the warmer months:

• Increased Wildlife Activity: Animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks are more active during the summer as they search for food, mates, and shelter. This increases the chance of human and pet encounters.
• Outdoor Pet Exposure: Dogs and cats spend more time outside in the summer, potentially encountering infected animals. Unvaccinated pets are especially vulnerable.
• More Human-Wildlife Interaction: People are more likely to explore parks, trails, and wooded areas—habitats that also attract wild animals. Curious children and pets may unknowingly approach sick or aggressive wildlife.

Recognizing Rabid Animals

Not all animals with rabies will foam at the mouth or act violently. Some may simply behave strangely. Signs of a potentially rabid animal include:

• Appearing unusually aggressive or tame
• Staggering or seeming disoriented
• Coming out during the daytime (for nocturnal animals like raccoons or bats)
• Making strange vocalizations or acting confused

If you notice a wild animal exhibiting any of these behaviors on your property, keep your distance and contact a wildlife professional immediately.

What to Do If You’re Exposed

If you or your pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal—or even comes into contact with one’s saliva—you should:

• Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
• Seek immediate medical attention.
• Report the incident to your local health department.
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet is involved.

Time is critical in cases of potential rabies exposure. The disease can be prevented with prompt medical care, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for humans or a booster shot for vaccinated pets.

How Critter Control in Green Bay Can Help

At Critter Control in Green Bay, we provide humane and professional wildlife removal services to help keep your home safe during the busy summer months. If you suspect that a wild animal on your property may be sick, aggressive, or acting abnormally, our trained technicians are equipped to handle the situation safely and legally.

We also offer exclusion services to prevent wild animals from entering your attic, crawlspace, or garage—common places for bats, raccoons, and skunks to shelter during the summer.

Tips to Reduce Rabies Risk on Your Property

• Keep pet vaccinations up to date.
• Avoid feeding or approaching wild animals.
• Secure garbage cans and remove outdoor food sources.
• Close off openings in your home’s structure to prevent animal entry.
• Supervise pets and children when outdoors.

Stay Safe This Summer

Summer in Wisconsin is a beautiful time to enjoy the outdoors—but it’s also a time to stay vigilant. By understanding the risks of rabies and taking preventive measures, you can protect your family, pets, and peace of mind.

If you’re dealing with nuisance wildlife or concerned about a possible rabies threat, don’t wait. Contact Critter Control of Green Bay today for fast, humane, and professional assistance.

Spring is the time when leaves turn green; daffodils, tulips, and lilacs bloom; grass starts growing, and love is in the air for those pesky critters.  With urban sprawl all around us, critters such as birds, squirrels and raccoons have adapted to co-exist with humans by nesting in attics or crawlspaces, chimneys, in or under woodsheds or wood piles, in treehouses or under hot tubs or decks. 

Any harborage area that is dark, quiet, and tight-fitting is ideal for nesting female critters.  The time of day the noises are heard often indicates the species of critter you may be dealing with

Daytime noises often indicate birds or squirrels. Nighttime noises usually indicate raccoons, rats, or mice.

Critters In Attics

Attics provide an ideal living space for squirrels, birds, rats, mice, or female raccoons as well. 

Squirrels in the Attic

 It is not uncommon for squirrels to gain access to a nest by chewing holes in fascia boards, soffit vents (bird block holes), roof vent guards, and eaves.  They are very resourceful at creating or enlarging holes to gain access and will return to the same homes to nest year after year. 

Eastern gray squirrels  (exotic animals in Washington State) nest twice per year and can become a big nuisance problem rather quickly.  It is best to do a complete inspection, identifying all actual and potential points of entry, complete the recommended repairs, and live-trap the squirrels that know about the area. 

Raccoons in the Attic

Nesting female raccoons do much damage in attics or crawlspaces during the nesting season.  They have been known to tear shakes off of roofs, enlarge openings under eaves, tear off roof vent guards, open foundation vents to gain access to the attic or crawlspaces to nest.  Besides this, they wear paths in the insulation, create fecal latrine sites and often bring ectoparasites and disease into the home. It is always a good idea to check with your homeowners’ insurance regarding damage coverage.  Sometimes they will cover this and we can help you out with this as well.

Birds in the Attic

Birds typically take advantage of every small nook or cranny that they can find. Nesting usually occurs in the spring, and many species of birds nest more than once a summer.  It is best to remove the nests, clean up the debris, and screen off the area to prevent future access, as well as eliminate other potential areas that they can take advantage of. 

Rodents in the Attic

Rats and mice are nocturnal animals that multiply quickly and exploit homes, creating or enlarging holes to gain access.  They need to be close to food, shelter, and water sources to be ideal habitats. 

For rats and mice, as with squirrels, we recommend a complete inspection to identify all actual and potential points of entry, completing the recommended repairs, using snap traps to rid the home of mice or rats, and then implementing a preventative baiting program.

Critter Control is a full-service pest control business that handles everything from critters and insects, live trapping, repairs, or exclusion, and attic and crawlspace restorations in Seattle, Olympia, and Portland. 

Follow along as Jesse Fraser, owner of Critter Control of New Hampshire, explains how mice get into the house and up into a bedroom ceiling. These homeowners were not hearing anything, but they were noticing a particular odor associated with mice.

Springfield, Illinois, is a historic city and the capital of Illinois. Best known as the home, library, and burial city of Abraham Lincoln, this city has other important features that make it a lively place to live, work, and visit. In addition to the city proper, the suburbs of Jerome, Leland Grove, Southern View, and Grandview are home to many of the residents who work downtown. 

Springfield is almost surrounded by the Sangamon River, which meanders around the city’s perimeter. The city lies in a valley within the Lower Illinois River Basin, in a large area known as the Till Plain. Much of this area floods with the seasons, but because it is mostly undeveloped, the flooding benefits the plant and animal habitats the land supports. 

Springfield’s mix of urban neighborhoods, wooded areas, and proximity to rivers and farmland creates the perfect environment for a variety of nuisance animals. The region’s four distinct seasons mean that wildlife is active year-round, seeking shelter in homes, attics, crawlspaces, and yards. You might encounter issues with squirrels nesting in attics, raccoons raiding trash cans, bats roosting in eaves, and skunks or groundhogs digging up lawns.

Springfield has other characteristics that make it attractive for wildlife to co-exist with us. 

• The city is home to many colleges and universities, as well as hospitals, whose large populations generate an abundance of food waste, making them vulnerable to animal disturbances and, along with aging infrastructure, to food waste accumulation. 
• Recreational attractions such as Knight’s Action Park and Caribbean Water Park also produce much waste that attracts animals. 
• Springfield’s cold winters and hot, humid summers provide the perfect environment for wildlife issues all year round. 

Squirrel Damage in Springfield, IL

Squirrels in Attic Insulation

Squirrel Exclusion Repair in Springfield, IL

If you live in or near a city, you may have noticed wildlife showing up in unexpected places in and around your home. Scratching sounds in the attic. Movement in the walls. An animal under the deck that keeps coming back. For many homeowners, these situations are no longer rare or surprising—they’re becoming familiar.

Urban ecology research helps explain why this is happening. Animals living in cities become more tolerant of people and everyday human activity over time, which changes how they move through neighborhoods and use buildings. As these animals adapt to urban environments, homes become increasingly attractive shelters.

How Urban Living Changes Wildlife Behavior

In cities, wildlife is constantly exposed to people. Cars pass by, lights turn on and off, yards are maintained, and homes are occupied. Over time, animals that can remain calm in these conditions are more likely to survive.

Researchers measure this change in several ways. One method is to look at how close a person can get to an animal before it runs away. In urban areas, that distance is often much shorter, meaning animals are less likely to flee when people are nearby. This reduced fear allows wildlife to spend more time near buildings and explore areas they might have avoided in the past.

Large-scale reviews of urban wildlife behavior show that animals living in developed areas tend to be bolder, more exploratory, and more flexible in their responses to their surroundings. Those traits help animals like raccoons, mice, and squirrels navigate city life, but they also make homes part of their everyday environment.

Why Homes Are Especially Attractive in Urban Areas

From a wildlife perspective, homes offer clear advantages. They provide warmth in cold weather, shade in hot weather, and protection from predators. Compared with outdoor spaces in cities, buildings are a consistent refuge for wildlife.

Studies using motion-activated cameras across urban and rural settings show that suburban areas often support higher wildlife activity than undeveloped land. Animals such as raccoons and squirrels are frequently detected near homes, garages, and decks, where food sources and shelter overlap.

Common Urban Wildlife You’re Likely to Encounter

Not all wildlife adapts to city life in the same way. Some animals are especially good at living close to people, learning how neighborhoods work, and taking advantage of the shelter homes provide. These are the species homeowners most often encounter in urban and suburban areas (and the ones most likely to return if access points stay open).

Raccoons

Raccoons are one of the most adaptable mammals in North America. In cities, they quickly learn how to navigate rooftops, chimneys, and attic openings, often using the same paths again and again. Many homeowners first notice raccoons through damage near the roofline or the sound of heavy movement overhead late at night.

Research shows raccoons are commonly detected in suburban environments, where human activity is frequent, but food and shelter are reliable. Once a raccoon successfully uses a home for shelter, it often returns if the access point remains open.

Squirrels

Squirrels are agile, curious, and persistent — traits that serve them well in urban neighborhoods. They move easily along trees, fences, and utility lines, then take advantage of small gaps around vents or soffits to reach attics. Homeowners often notice squirrel activity during nesting seasons, when these quiet, enclosed spaces are especially appealing to squirrels.

Urban behavior research indicates that exploratory animals are more likely to investigate structures and to repeat behaviors that are effective. This helps explain why squirrel problems can escalate quickly if openings aren’t sealed early.

Rats and Mice

Rats and mice are particularly well-suited to dense development. They use foundations, pipes, and wall voids to move through neighborhoods with very little visibility. Once inside a structure, they can stay hidden while accessing warmth, shelter, and nearby food sources.

Studies show that urban-adapted mammals quickly learn which routes provide safety and tend to reuse them over time. Without addressing entry points, rodent activity often continues even after removal.

Why Wildlife Problems Often Come Back Without Exclusion

Many homeowners are surprised when wildlife returns after an animal has been removed. It can feel frustrating, especially when the problem seems resolved. In most cases, repeat activity has less to do with the animal itself and more to do with what the structure still offers.

Research highlights that animals with higher tolerance to humans spend more time foraging and sheltering in disturbed environments, including residential areas. When an animal successfully uses a home for warmth or shelter, that experience reinforces the behavior. If access points remain open, the same animal — or another one — may return.

This is why long-term solutions focus on exclusion. Sealing entry points and modifying conditions removes the opportunity, not just the animal.

Why Wildlife Activity Often Increases at Night

Homeowners often notice wildlife problems when the house is quiet. Scratching in the attic late at night. Thumping sounds overhead after the lights go out. Movement beneath the floor in the early morning hours.

Research tracking wildlife near human-used trails shows that many animals adjust their activity rather than avoiding human spaces altogether. Because people are most active during the day, wildlife often shifts its movement to quieter periods.

At night, homes become calm and predictable. For animals that have already learned a structure is safe, these hours provide the best opportunity to move, explore, and access shelter without interruption.

What Makes Homes Feel Safe to Urban Wildlife

To wildlife, a home offers qualities that are increasingly rare in urban environments. It provides steady temperatures, protection from the weather, and shelter from predators. Just as important, it offers consistency.

Once an animal finds a way inside, the space doesn’t change much. Attics stay dry. Crawl spaces stay enclosed. Wall voids remain hidden. Over time, these features make homes reliable places to rest or raise young, especially compared to outdoor spaces that are noisy, exposed, or frequently disturbed.

Reducing the Risk of Wildlife in Your Home

Keeping wildlife out of your home starts with closing the openings animals use and addressing the features that made the structure appealing in the first place.

Simple issues, such as small gaps along rooflines, damaged vents, loose siding, or foundation openings, can become recurring access points if left unaddressed. Addressing those vulnerabilities early reduces the likelihood that animals return or that new ones find the same way in.

Research shows that limiting access and managing conditions around a home significantly reduces repeat wildlife activity in urban environments. Prevention works best when it focuses on the structure itself, not just the animal that happened to be there first.

Understanding Behavior Leads to Better Solutions

Wildlife getting into homes in cities isn’t random, and it isn’t something you caused. As neighborhoods grow and change, nearby animals learn to navigate people, buildings, and daily routines. Over time, some become comfortable enough to use homes for warmth and shelter, which helps explain why these situations feel more common than they used to.

At Critter Control, we take that behavior into account when helping you protect your home. Our approach focuses on addressing the full situation—removing the animal, sealing entry points, and repairing damage—so the problem doesn’t recur. When solutions are built around how wildlife actually behaves, they’re more effective and give homeowners lasting peace of mind.

Do you smell that? Oh no…nothing can ruin a day quicker than a skunk in your yard spraying you or your pet. Skunks can cause extensive damage to your property and pose a serious threat to your safety. It is important that your remove skunks from your Michigan property at first sign of infestation. 

If you have a skunk on your property, you will most likely know right away from their strong odor. There are many reasons skunks choose to invade Ann Arbor homes and yards, including free access to food, water, and shelter. 

Why is it important to remove skunks from your Ann Arbor property? 

• Odor— Skunks are notorious for their strong and pungent odor. If a skunk feels threatened or scared, it can release a foul-smelling spray as a defense mechanism. The odor can linger for days and is extremely difficult to get rid of. It can permeate your home, outdoor living spaces, and even affect your neighbors. Removing skunks can prevent unpleasant odors and maintain a comfortable environment. 

• Damage— Skunks can cause damage to your property. They are known to dig burrows or dens in yards, gardens, and under structures such as decks, sheds, or porches. This can damage landscaping, foundations, and other structures. It is important to remove skunks to protect your property from damage and harm. Skunk droppings are another serious threat to the integrity of your home and the safety of you and your family. Learn about how to identify skunk scat and damage here. 

• Pet Safety— Skunks can pose a serious threat to the safety and well-being of your pets. When cornered or provoked, skunks may spray at curious or aggressive animals, including dogs and cats. The spray can cause temporary blindness and discomfort to pets. It is also extremely hard to get rid of the smell from their fur. Additionally, skunks are known carriers of diseases such as rabies or parasites like fleas and ticks, which can be transmitted to your pets. 

• Garden & Plant Protection— Skunks will pounce at free food anytime they can. Oftentimes this can be found in your garden or plants. Removing skunks helps protect your plants and ensures the productivity of your garden. 

It is important not to attempt to remove skunks yourself. Skunks pose several dangers and are extremely difficult to remove without being sprayed. If you encounter skunks on your Ann Arbor property, call the professionals at Critter Control in Ann Arbor. Our experts have years of experience removing skunks and can do so humanely without damaging your property.

Green Bay, Wisconsin, with its beautiful landscapes and proximity to nature, is home to a wide variety of wildlife. While this can be a source of pride and joy, it can also lead to wildlife-related problems. From uninvited guests in your attic to potential damage to your home, the presence of wild animals can sometimes create challenging situations for homeowners. At Critter Control of Green Bay, we are committed to helping you manage these issues humanely and effectively.

Here are some of the most common wildlife problems in Green Bay and tips on how to handle them:

Squirrels in Attics

Squirrels are notorious for entering attics, especially during colder months when they are searching for warmth and shelter. Their sharp teeth and claws can cause damage to insulation, electrical wires, and wooden structures.

How to Handle It:
If you hear scratching noises in the attic or see signs of chewing, it’s important to act quickly. First, secure all potential entry points around your home. A professional wildlife control expert can inspect and seal these openings. It’s also crucial to safely remove any squirrels and relocate them to a more appropriate habitat.

Raccoons in the Crawl Space

Raccoons are excellent climbers and often get into crawl spaces, attics, or basements in search of food or shelter. Once inside, they can create a mess, contaminate insulation with urine and feces, and even cause structural damage.

How to Handle It:
To avoid attracting raccoons, keep food sources, such as pet food and trash cans, sealed tightly. If you suspect a raccoon is living in your home, it’s essential to have it safely trapped and removed. A professional wildlife control service will not only address the immediate problem but will also provide advice on how to prevent future invasions.

Bats in the Belfry

Bats are another common issue in Green Bay. These nocturnal creatures can make their way into homes through small gaps or cracks. While bats can help control insect populations, their presence in your home can lead to health risks, including exposure to diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis.

How to Handle It:
Bats should never be handled on your own. It’s vital to call a professional who can safely remove them and ensure that they do not return. Additionally, a professional will conduct a thorough inspection to identify and seal any openings in your home where bats could enter. The best time for bat removal is during late summer or early fall when they are not rearing young.

Skunks Under Decks or Porches

Skunks are known for their distinctive odor, but they can also be quite damaging when they take up residence under decks or porches. Their burrows can cause structural issues, and their tendency to spray when frightened can create an unpleasant environment.

How to Handle It:
To deter skunks, seal all entry points under decks and porches. If you already have a skunk under your structure, it’s important to have a wildlife control expert handle the removal. They can humanely relocate the skunk, minimizing the risk of being sprayed.

Mice and Rats in the Home

Mice and rats are a constant problem, particularly during the colder months when they seek shelter and food inside homes. These rodents can chew through wiring, insulation, and even structural elements of your home. They also pose a significant health risk by contaminating food and surfaces with their urine and feces.

How to Handle It:
Keep food sealed and maintain a clean home to avoid attracting rodents. If you spot any signs of mice or rats, such as droppings or gnawed items, it’s important to act quickly. Trapping and sealing entry points are key to controlling rodent populations. A wildlife control professional can perform a thorough inspection, handle safe trapping, and ensure that your home remains rodent-free.

Opossums in the Yard or Garage

Opossums are often misunderstood, but they can cause problems when they invade your garage or outdoor sheds in search of food. While they are not usually aggressive, they can make a mess and potentially spread diseases through their droppings.
How to Handle It:
Remove any food sources or garbage that could be attracting opossums to your property. If you have an opossum taking up residence in your garage, it’s important to safely trap and relocate it. A professional service will also ensure that the opossum’s entry points are sealed to prevent future invasions.

Birds Nesting in Unwanted Areas

Certain bird species, such as pigeons, starlings, and sparrows, often nest in attics, vents, or other secluded spaces. Their droppings can cause damage to property, and in some cases, bird mites and other pests can become a problem.

How to Handle It:
If birds have already nested, avoid disturbing the nest until it is abandoned. Once the birds are gone, a wildlife control expert can remove the nest and prevent future nesting by installing barriers or netting. Regular maintenance and keeping vents and chimneys properly sealed are essential to keeping birds from entering your home.

While wildlife in Green Bay can be beautiful and fascinating, their presence in your home or on your property can pose serious risks to your health and cause serious damage. At Critter Control of Green Bay, we are here to help you address these issues in a humane, safe, and effective way. Whether you’re dealing with squirrels in the attic, raccoons under the porch, or other wildlife problems, our trained professionals can provide the solutions you need to reclaim your space.

If you are experiencing any wildlife-related issues, don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer safe, reliable, and expert wildlife control services tailored to your needs. Contact Critter Control in Green Bay today for a consultation and ensure your home remains a safe, comfortable place to live.

Birmingham is called the Magic City for its rapid growth in the early days. The wildlife population has been rapidly growing, too.

Currently, Alabama is home to 22 species of rodents, 16 species of bats, 11 species of carnivores, six species of insectivores, four species of rabbits, one opossum, and one armadillo. Non-native wildlife includes the black rat, Norway rat, house mouse, nutria (coypu), fallow deer, and feral swine.

Wildlife in Birmingham, AL

As the Birmingham area continues to grow and develop, we are increasingly experiencing interactions with wildlife that have no choice but to live alongside us. We see them in our neighborhoods, our backyards, and even in our homes. Many wildlife species become nuisances due to the damage they cause to our houses and property.

DIY Wildlife Removal & Prevention

As a homeowner, it’s important to remain vigilant for signs of nuisance wildlife and make sure your property is not attracting animals. Check for weaknesses such as loose roof shingles, gaps in foundations, and uncovered vents. In addition, keep your yard free of debris where animals can take shelter, ensure trash is tightly closed, and bring pet food inside. These are good DIY strategies. Critter Control is a beneficial partner in not only removing animals once they invade but also proactively preventing them by scheduling an annual inspection and employing recommended exclusion and deterrence techniques.

Getting rid of nuisance wildlife is necessary, and it must be done the right way. Critter Control is here for you every step of the way in the wildlife removal process. From inspection to removal—and even exclusion and repair—we have the services you need to get rid of raccoons, rodents, and other nuisances fast.

Photos from the Field

Animal Control in Crawlspace

Critters like raccoons, opossums, and skunks could access this homeowner’s crawlspace and create dens under the house. We replaced the door to keep animals out.

Attics are an out-of-the-way spot many of us like to store belongings we don’t use frequently. Because we don’t access our attic often, it is nice and quiet up there. It’s also cozy and insulated, with many nooks and crannies. This makes for the ideal home for the rodents in your house!

Once rodents have found their way into your home, it’s hard to get them to leave! They multiply quickly, and the problem can get out of hand fast.

How to know you have rodents in the attic

Often, the first sign of rodents in the attic is the sound of scurrying in your ceiling during the night. If you hear scurrying during the day, you likely have a squirrel problem, but those quiet nighttime noises are usually rodents!

Additional signs you have rodents in the attic include:

Foul Smell

When rodents are in the attic, they use your ductwork to travel through the house. They will often die in the ducts or in your walls, leaving behind a foul odor. Rodents also leave droppings around your attic and home, and that odor adds up as well.

Electrical Issues

When rodents live in the attic, they take their toll on your home with their teeth. Rodent teeth never stop growing, so they’re always looking for things to chew. Unfortunately, one of their targets includes the electrical wires in your home. If rodents are chewing your wires, you may notice electrical shortages or wiring issues.

Ripped Insulation

Last time you were in the attic, did your insulation look a little funky? This could be the work of rodents! Rodents love to rip insulation and use it for their bedding. Unfortunately, they also create paths in the insulation, leaving their urine and droppings along the way. This renders your insulation ineffective.

Droppings Around the House

When you have rodents in the attic, they don’t stay in that area. They like to explore the rest of your home! Along the way, they leave behind droppings in your pantry, dresser drawers, and kitchen. If you find these droppings, this means you have a rodent infestation.

How to keep rodents out of the attic

If you haven’t noticed these signs yet, then you may not have a rodent issue! To keep it that way, it’s important to implement rodent prevention methods.

Seal entry points

The first step to preventing rodents is to seal the entry points of your home. Go along the exterior of your house with some caulk and seal any holes in the siding, holes around windows, and damaged trim around doors. These are the most common rodent entry points.

Put Food Away

Be sure there is nothing in or around your home that is attracting rodents. Keep food sealed shut in a tight container, don’t leave open water laying around, and if you’re feeding the birds, don’t use seed that has a husk. The birds leave this behind and it’s a great treat for rodents.

Eliminate other rodent attractants

Rodents will use tree branches, trash cans, and anything leaning against your house as a pathway to your home. If you can’t reach the top of your home to caulk and seal as rodent prevention, be sure there is nothing the rodents can use to access your roof. While rodents can climb siding and brick, you can do your part to eliminate the options.

If you have rodents in the attic, call Critter Control in Ann Arbor today for professional rodent control! We will remove the rodents from your home and then install professional prevention methods to ensure they don’t return.

Watch as he saves a raccoon that tumbled into his pool!

The disaster was narrowly adverted for this raccoon family. While they were strolling through a backyard, one of the kits tumbled into the chilly pool! The rest of the family scurried to get him out of the cold water. 

Fortunately, the homeowner saw the event and came to the rescue. With pool net in hand, the raccoon was scooped out of the pool! Raccoons usually love pools in Houston, but the cold water made this situation dicey. 

 

 

 

 

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Why Raccoons Love Pools in Houston

While it’s common lore that raccoons like to wash their food in water before they eat it, scientists have now discovered that they use water for a different purpose. Water makes the pads of a raccoon’s paws more sensitive to what they are holding. The process is called “dousing.” When a raccoon is dousing, it helps them gather information about the food’s texture and ingredients; it helps them distinguish between a tasty morsel and something best set aside.

Raccoon forepaws are covered in tiny spikes that act as sensors. Because more than 60% of a raccoon’s cerebral cortex is dedicated to sensory perception, their hands are incredibly informative tools. Since raccoons are nocturnal, this is especially useful to them as it allows them to “see” their food through this heightened sense of touch.

Raccoon Poop in Pools

If a raccoon has decided that your pool is safe, they will return regularly. In addition to using the pool to douse, they will poop there too. Raccoons pooping in a pool is not unusual, and you will most likely find their poop in the shallow end, on the steps.

Raccoon poop looks similar to dog poop. It is dark, has broken ends, and will most likely contain seeds and berries, as this is much of what raccoons eat.

Health Risks of Raccoon Poop in Pools

If you find raccoon poop in or around your pool, the pool must be cleaned immediately and thoroughly. Their feces often contain the eggs of a worm called Baylisascaris procyonis, which can infect humans, particularly children, causing severe neurological illness. These eggs can be swallowed while swimming in an infected pool. Unfortunately, while the chlorine in your pool will kill much of what can harm you, it does not kill these eggs.

Animals choose to get under the house primarily for the shelter it can provide. Most animals you’ll find under the house are likely making their way there to create a burrow or nest. The dark space offers shelter from the elements, making it the perfect spot to call home. Beyond simple shelter, the space under your house is close to food sources that come with human presence.

Opossum and Skunk Hole Under House

Skunks and opossums can get through this hole in the foamboard under the house. They’re nocturnal, so it’s unlikely you’ll see either animal, but there is evidence. Both critters usually stay in a den location temporarily and move out on their own. You shouldn’t ignore the problem! The entry hole still exists and will be used by other pests. This one hole was used by a skunk and an opossum at different times. Animals like raccoons and rodents can easily fit through this hole.

Opossum in Crawlspace

Opossums usually creep into crawl spaces in search of shelter and food, using gaps and openings in the foundation or vents to gain access. While they tend to be less destructive than raccoons, opossums in crawl spaces can still create sizeable messes with their droppings and may carry parasites like fleas and ticks.

Skunks in Crawlspace

Skunks are known to burrow under foundations to access crawl spaces, especially when winter brings cool temperatures. Attracted by the warmth and potential food sources, their presence is often painfully obvious thanks to their distinctive odor. Beyond their smell, skunks in crawl spaces can damage your home with digging and may carry diseases such as leptospirosis, which can be transmitted to humans and pets.

Animal Control Under the House

Technicians Fox & Jake removed the foam board (that had a hole) and installed cement board, more rocks, and some mortar in this crawlspace.

Homeowners can experience nuisance wildlife problems year-round in Houston. I also notice a significant uptick in raccoon and squirrel instruction during these upcoming months as animals seek winter nesting protected from the elements of nature and predators as this is breeding season. For the larger animals, I typically see females being the culprits to establish their breeding dens. As they exit the properties to search for food and water they mark their territory to attract a mate for breeding so where I typically find one, more are soon to follow!

New Home Construction and Nuisance Wildlife

Houston home construction is ripe for animal intrusion regardless of new build or mature homes. This, coupled with environmental conditions along the Texas Gulf Coast causes homes to “open up” more rapidly than in other markets.

Residential structural engineering’s fundamental purposes are to: 

1. Keep warm in the winter
2. Keep us cool during the summer
3. Keep us dry 
4. Comply with “code”.

The building code doesn’t prescribe provisions for preventing wildlife intrusions. 

Houston homes have certain elements found on our homes like weep holes because of the warm, humid climate. For example,  weep holes are gaps on brick homes near the foundation that allow moisture to exhaust from gaps behind the bricks and between the weather barriers of homes. 

These can’t be screened otherwise it will impede the purpose of this ventilation element. We can insert copper mesh, breathable wafer inserts, or a 1/4 inch galvanized hardware cloth to allow the home to breathe but prevent critters such as rats, mice, or snakes from entering. Below is a snakeskin shed at my home. 

The Texas Gulf Coast Climate and Wildlife

We also know homes expand, contract, shift, and settle. For the most part, our geology is relatively stable despite being on what is pretty much a swamp but weather expansion and contraction, contrary to popular belief don’t happen over years necessarily but can occur in weeks.

For example, it’s really hot and humid down here, in most of Texas for that matter. In 2022 in Houston, there were 52 days over 100 degrees in the shade. This causes our roofs to heat well in excess of 150 degrees + which can melt boots. Along the coast, we often get steady winds from the gulf which cause pop-up thunderstorms. During the heat of the day when these storms pop up and drop 60-degree rain on such surfaces, expansion/co-reaction happens rapidly. Nowadays in new construction hardy plank is a preferred material of choice which is designed exactly to expand and contract. I’ve seen this process happen in my homes in a season, causing homes to open up, and guess who can come knocking? Rodents! Open pathway to shelter! 

Wildlife Behavior during Winter

Along the Texas Gulf Coast, it doesn’t get cold enough nor cold long enough to induce hibernation. With that said, with the change of summer into fall, the cold fronts do trigger the mammalian instinct to see warmth as winter approaches. Most of the homes I see personally during winter have rodent activity.

Natural Predators in Urban Environments

As in any large metropolitan, there is more of an absence of natural predators that control nuisance wildlife populations like rats and squirrels. This often allows populations to go unchecked causing significant issues in large geographical areas.

With this absence of natural predators in addition to homes providing year around protection from the elements of nature, predators and landscaping/irrigation systems/pools providing a constant and sustainable food/water source Metro Houston area has been experiencing a defined increase in wildlife issues in our homes and around our neighborhoods.

About the author

Roger Maul serves as the southwest region sales manager for Critter Control.  He has lived and worked in Houston for over twenty years. He lives in The Woodlands with his wife and two daughters.

Groundhog Day celebrated annually on February 2nd, is a fascinating blend of folklore, history, and community spirit. Known for its charming traditions and cultural significance, Groundhog Day has evolved from its European roots into a beloved event in the United States and Canada.

The holiday is based on folklore that a groundhog emerging from its burrow can predict the weather for the coming weeks:

• If the groundhog sees its shadow (meaning the day is sunny), it retreats into its burrow, indicating six more weeks of winter.
• If the groundhog does not see its shadow (cloudy day), it stays outside, suggesting an early spring.

Groundhog Day Prognostications across the Country

There are weather-predicting groundhogs and critters across the country. According to NOAA, the most accurate groundhogs are Staten Island Chuck in New York and General Beauregard Lee in Georgia. Punxsutawney Phil, while the most famous prognosticator, is not the most accurate. He’s been predicting the water from his burrow on Gobbler’s Knob since 1887!

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Comparing Groundhog Prognostications to NOAA

Can I Trust the Groundhog in my Backyard?

If you live in the Eastern or Central part of the United States, you might witness a groundhog appear in your yard. Groundhogs are true hibernators, and they just start to wake up in February. Groundhogs typically begin hibernation in late fall (around October or November) and remain in their burrows until early spring (February or March), depending on the climate.

We do not recommend checking a groundhog in your yard if it sees its shadow. Generally, they are not aggressive but they can be dangerous if threatened. If you do see a groundhog in your yard, call Critter Control. Their extensive burrows can damage your yard and undermine buildings.

The History of Groundhog Day

The origins of Groundhog Day date back to ancient European traditions, specifically the German custom of Candlemas Day. Held on February 2nd, Candlemas Day involved clergy blessing candles and distributing them to ward off the darkness of winter. It was believed that if the weather was fair on Candlemas, the latter half of winter would be harsh and cold. German settlers brought this tradition to America, adapting it to their new environment by replacing the badger with the groundhog, a creature commonly found in Pennsylvania.

Groundhog Day officially began in 1887 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, thanks to a local newspaper editor who promoted the event. This led to establishing Punxsutawney Phil, the now-iconic groundhog, as the weather predictor. Over the years, the celebration grew from a local event to a national spectacle, attracting thousands of visitors eager to see Phil’s prediction.

Mice are one of the most common pests homeowners face in the United States. Mice can be a problem for any type of house regardless of age or condition because they can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime. When people first notice signs of a mouse infestation, they usually run to the hardware store to get traps. To help homeowners, we asked the division service manager Jason Leinneweber his advice on picking the best mouse trap.

 What is most important to consider when buying a mouse trap?

The most important thing to consider is effectiveness. Some traps may be cheaper but could be less effective or considered less humane. On the other hand, some traps, like humane electrical traps, are more expensive but very effective. Traps can truly be a “you get what you pay for” deal. The exception to this rule may be the old-fashioned Victor-style traps (the ones with the wooden base).  They only run a few dollars and there is a reason they have been around for 100 years, my only advice with this style of trap is to keep your fingers out of the way.

Homeowners need to assess their particular mouse infestation situation to discern what sort of trap is going to work best for them, based on how many mice they think are in the house, and their skill level of trapping along with the time commitment needed to solve the issue. It should be noted that traps are typically most effective if there are only one or two mice in the home; if you’re dealing with a larger quantity of mice, it is best to employ the services of a wildlife removal professional, who can handle your home’s mouse problem in a properly customized fashion.

What should you consider when choosing a mouse trap if you also need to consider child and pet safety at home?

Although snap traps may be the most well-known and most common mouse traps for household use, their snapping component could be dangerous for pets and small children around the house. Pets may be drawn to the food used to bait the trap, while babies and toddlers could confuse it as a toy left on the ground and try to touch it, activating the snapping function and getting hurt.

If you have young children or pets, you may want to stick with cage traps that pose less of a physical threat to them.

What’s the best bait to use in a mouse trap?

While cheese may be the most famous bait for mouse traps, homeowners should know that mice prefer sweet foods. With that in mind, if you’re using a food-baited snap trap, your best bet for enticing mice to the trap is to bait it with peanut butter or some other light, sweet treat. Pay attention to what the mice are already eating if they have invaded the pantry.  If you find a hole chewed in a box of cereal, use that as your bait.

How long does it usually take for a mouse trap to work?

Many mice may be averse to taking unnecessary risks, so even if you put a trap right in an area or path that they frequent within your home, they may remain skeptical of it for some time and choose to avoid it. They typically won’t approach it until they’re certain it doesn’t pose an immediate threat to them, which can take days or even weeks.

In some instances, that wait may not bother a homeowner, but each day that the mouse problem is not handled, is another day of your home and food potentially being contaminated by them. While they’re scurrying around, they may also chew on furniture and other fixtures in the house, as well as electrical wires, which could cause a fire. Not only that, but mice reproduce and multiply very quickly, so every passing day where the problem is not rectified is another day closer to the problem worsening.

If you feel the traps are not getting the job done in an economical amount of time, you ought to enlist the help of a professional wildlife removal service.

Jason Leinneweber started his career as a wildlife biologist in 2009. He was instrumental in growing the region first as a technician, then District Manager in Dallas-Fort Worth. He spent five years as the district manager before being promoted to region manager. Jason’s experience in excellent service earned him another promotion to Division Service Manager in 2021.

You see woodchuck (groundhog) heads popping up in fields, and then quickly, they disappear. You may even see them hurrying across the street from time to time, avoiding traffic. Groundhogs are crepuscular. They are most active in the mornings late afternoons and evenings. They’ll retreat to their burrows during the hottest parts of the day.

Woodchucks are attracted to food sources in your yard and garden. They primarily feed on grasses, clover, dandelions, and other native plants. Gardens are particularly enticing to woodchucks as they enjoy fruits and vegetables such as lettuce, beans, peas, and berries, and they will even nibble on ornamental plants and flowers. Compost piles and fallen fruits beneath trees also appeal to these animals, providing easy access to food in residential areas.

When you see them, they are out and about, searching for food to take back to their underground home. Woodchucks prefer to make a home under a shed, barn, or even your house. They dig multiple tunnels, giving them access to their underground den at several locations.

Damage Caused by Woodchucks

The problem is that the tunnels destroy the foundation of your house, shed, or other structure. Groundhogs can move hundreds of pounds of dirt when they are burrowing. Depending on your type of foundation, your home could be sitting on uneven ground. You will know it soon enough because your foundation will shift and cracks will form. Eventually, your house may fall.

Groundhogs also wreak havoc on your garden. They create large holes in fields, causing severe damage to tractors and farm equipment. If horses or livestock step in a groundhog hole, it can be a costly vet bill.

What are some humane ways to get rid of woodchucks?

Some people claim Epsom salt on your plants can deter a woodchuck from entering your garden, but I haven’t heard of that work.

Taste repellents like mint and capsaicin do work. Taste repellents like capsaicin do work. You can spray the repellent on leaves but don’t spray on food crops. Apply every 30-60 days depending on rain. They are not 100% effective. An important caveat for repellents. If an animal really wants to be somewhere, it will get there. If the animal has young, maternity instinct will override a repellent.

If that doesn’t work, you might be able to live trap and relocate groundhogs. You need to check local and state laws before you attempt to relocate any wildlife.

Fences make great neighbors. Trapping a groundhog can be labor intensive. A fence around your garden can keep groundhogs from eating your vegetables and flowers.

Be aware of the birth season. In New Hampshire, groundhogs breed in Late March and April after hibernating. They give birth in April, and the young can leave the burrow in June. So if you trap and relocate a lactating mother in May, the young will be abandoned in the burrow.

In the Northeast, we find a variety of different animals frequenting homes. From tiny house mice to coyotes, wildlife utilizes homes for a variety of reasons including shelter and food. The most common species we find as unwanted roommates are mice, rats, squirrels, raccoons, birds, bats, and snakes.

Most critters want to stay away from any human activity.  They will utilize areas like attic spaces, wall voids, subfloors, and basements/crawl spaces to seek shelter and escape the elements. On occasion, a critter may find its way inside the living area but will probably spend its time trying to escape.

When Critters are Active in the Northeast United States

Raccoons, skunks, and opossums are all nocturnal.  You will rarely encounter these animals but that doesn’t mean they aren’t living around your property!  They tend to sleep during the day and are most active in the middle of the night.  Squirrels on the other hand are diurnal, or active during the day.  They are very quick and excellent climbers and therefore do not need to hide from predators by feeding in the dark.

Most critters want to stay away from any human activity.  They will utilize areas like attic spaces, wall voids, subfloors, and basements/crawl spaces to seek shelter and escape the elements. On occasion, a critter may find its way inside the living area but will probably spend it’s time trying to escape.

Skunks in the Yard

Skunks are impressive diggers commonly found denning under porches, decks, garages, and even the foundation of the home. The best solution to get rid of them is to perform preventative exclusion. We recommend installing underground fencing around the permitter of these structures. A licensed nuisance wildlife control operator should remove the current inhabitants before any exclusion so as not to enclose any wildlife under the structure. Can you imagine an angry, stuck skunk under your porch?

Skunks can spray up to 10 feet with an accuracy of a couple of inches, and the smell can be detected for over a mile!  They are also immune to snake venoms and are known to sometimes kill and eat venomous snakes.

Raccoon Pests

Raccoons have very high IQ levels and have been known to learn behaviors from humans as well as demonstrate critical thinking skills like opening traps or doors.  Raccoons are extremely skillful and resourceful, can adapt to live almost anywhere and absolutely thrive in urban environments.   

It’s no secret that raccoons, aka “trash pandas” love garbage! The best solution is to use garbage cans with secure lids and keep any dumpsters closed and locked. A motion sensor spotlight can sometimes help deter them during the night.

Raccoons are adept climbers capable of scaling most homes and businesses. Raccoons have dexterous hands and powerful jaws. Once on the roof, they often break into and enter attics. From there, they often have free roam of the ceiling and wall voids.

Bats in the Attic

Bats can be hazardous animals to have in your attic, for multiple reasons.  Bats often carry rabies and if scratched or bitten by a bat, you will need a rabies vaccine as soon as possible.  Their bat guano is also hazardous and can cause respiratory problems including histoplasmosis or scarring of the lungs.  If bats are discovered in your attic, it is best to stay out of the attic, make sure the attic door is shut tight, and call professionals.  Bats are very beneficial to the environment and need to be treated with care, while also protecting those who live in the home.

Lancaster County Bat Removal

Snakes in the House

To many homeowners, there’s not much scarier than the idea of a snake getting into their house. Fortunately, there are plenty of things to be done to help prevent them in the first place.

• Firstly, get rid of any conducive habitat close to the home. Keep shrubs and bushes trimmed 2-3 feet away from the foundation and move any log piles or debris away from the home.
• Second, make sure any gaps along the foundation and roofline are properly sealed or covered.
• Third, get rid of their food source! Snakes are our natural pest control eating mice, rats, and a variety of insects, however, to prevent the snakes from in turn becoming the pest, we recommend having your home inspected for rodents and bugs by pest control pros.

When Should Homeowners Call Critter Control

Homeowners should call Critter Control at the first sign of a critter problem. People usually notice strange sounds, bad smells, droppings, or physical damage. The longer an animal infestation is ignored, the more entrenched these critters can get. The longer pests are in the house, the more damage they cause.

Rory Smart currently leads the Northeast region which includes Virginia, Maryland, DC, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Massachusetts, Delaware, and New Jersey. He has experience as a wildlife control specialist helping homeowners with nuisance wildlife problems, division recruiter, and region service manager.

Carving pumpkins is one of the most popular activities in October. But jack o’lanterns aren’t just a symbol for Halloween, they also are critter magnets. We asked Meg Pearson, wildlife training manager, for her insights on what pests are attracted to pumpkins and tips on how to stop squirrels and critters from eating your pumpkin.

Why are pests attracted to jack o’lanterns?

Though your annual jack o’lantern is a fun, temporary piece of autumnal decor, it can essentially act as a free meal, served on a platter for the local critter community, most of which is constantly on the prowl for their next meals. The fact that the pumpkin is carved up only makes it easier for local wildlife to access its tasty insides, which many animals will happily chow down on, regardless of whether it’s fresh or rotting.

What serves as a festive decoration for us, is seen as an outdoor buffet to the local wildlife population.

Which pests are attracted to jack o’lanterns?

Many smaller animals, like mice, rats, and squirrels, will be interested in eating your jack-o-lantern, but it may also attract larger animals, including raccoons, opossums, deer, and more.

What are the best ways to deter them from gnawing on them?

The best way to keep local animals from approaching your home and eating your jack o’lantern is to keep proper care of your lawn: keep it mowed and be sure to regularly rake your leaves, as many smaller animals thrive in areas with unkempt lawns.

You may also want to keep your jack o’lantern on some sort of elevated surface that may be difficult for a mouse, rat, or squirrel to access, possibly deterring them from trying after a few attempts.

You must keep animals from approaching your house, in search of food, because after they finish scarfing down your jack o’lantern, they may decide to see if they can enter your house in search of even more food, and then you’ll have a much more serious critter problem on your hands. Be sure to seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation this fall, as many animals will be looking for a warm place to live through the winter, especially if it serves as a consistent food source.

Other seasonally appropriate preventative measures to stop critters from entering your home?

One of the best things you can do to keep nuisance wildlife away from your home and yard is to keep a clean, sealed space. For your yard, this means raking leaves and trimming branches and bushes. This prevents the animals from burrowing and climbing. You’ll also want to seal up any gaps in or around your home such as areas under decks, any sort of visible gaps in the foundation or outside of your home. Critters seek shelter and warmth, and openings in your house provide that for them. Finally, keeping trash tightly sealed and bringing in pets’ water and food dishes will deter critters from your property. 

Meg Pearson, Wildlife Training Manager

By Roger Maul, Region Sales Manager for Critter Control

As Houston grows and expands, so does the risk of squirrel infestations. While they may seem cute and harmless, squirrels are responsible for significant damage to homes and infrastructure. As a professional in wildlife management, I’ve seen firsthand how these furry creatures can wreak havoc, especially in urban settings like ours. Let me walk you through some key points to remember when it comes to squirrel infestations, particularly in Houston.

The Impact of Land Development on Local Wildlife

Houston’s land development directly contributes to the displacement of native species, including squirrels. When one species is displaced, the entire ecosystem feels the effects. Squirrels, like all animals, are driven by their need for three things: food, water, and shelter. As we build new homes, offices, and infrastructure, we’re inadvertently providing these animals with more shelter, driving them into attics, vents, and even weep holes in our homes.

Squirrel Behavior and Why They Love Your Home

Squirrels are highly adaptive animals. They can jump 5 to 6 feet vertically and 8 feet horizontally, which means even if you think the tree branches are far enough from your house, they can easily find their way in. Their natural ability to chew, particularly to file down their teeth, poses a serious threat to homeowners. Texas homes commonly use PVC and PEX piping, both of which squirrels can chew through, causing costly water damage. In addition, they can gnaw on wires, leading to electrical issues or even fires.

One of the most common entry points for squirrels is the roof, especially through vents created for attic air exhaust. Weep holes, which allow ventilation in homes, are another weak spot that squirrels exploit. In Houston, with its hot and humid climate, homes are particularly vulnerable to these types of entry points.

Recognizing the Signs of a Squirrel Infestation

Most people don’t realize they have a squirrel problem until it’s too late. Because squirrels are diurnal, they’re active during the day and often spend time outside, returning to your attic at night. This sneaky behavior means you might not notice them until you hear scratching or gnawing sounds at sunset, or worse—discover plumbing issues due to chewed pipes. Other telltale signs include fresh wood exposed under paint (from chewing) or tic-tac-shaped droppings scattered around your attic.

One particularly deceptive aspect of a squirrel infestation is their ability to create paths through attic insulation without leaving obvious signs. Squirrels also leave small piles of debris where they chew and build nests.

Year-Round Problem in Houston

Unlike in colder regions, squirrels in Houston don’t hibernate. The warmer climate means that squirrels breed year-round, doubling their birthing season and multiplying their numbers at an alarming rate. This is especially true right now as land development in Houston is displacing more wildlife than ever.

Houston is home to several species of squirrels, including the gray squirrel, ground squirrel, and fox squirrel. These species are now thriving in our urban environments, creating a year-round headache for homeowners.

Squirrel Prevention: It’s Not About Chemicals or Traps

If you think the solution to a squirrel infestation is a quick spray or a trap, think again. The real preventative measures involve physically blocking off potential entry points. Sealing small holes, gaps in roofing, and weep holes are crucial steps to keep squirrels out. However, it’s important to note that common sealants like spray foam are no match for squirrels’ powerful teeth—they can easily chew right through wood.

The best solution is a professional wildlife inspection to identify potential entry points and secure your home. We at Critter Control focus on proactive strategies like sealing gaps and reinforcing vulnerable areas to prevent squirrels from entering your home in the first place.

A Delicate Balance: Protecting Wildlife and Your Home

One final point to remember: in Texas, squirrels are considered a state resource, which means they are protected by law. While they can be incredibly destructive, shooting or harming squirrels is illegal. Instead, if you suspect a squirrel infestation, it’s best to call in a professional wildlife service to handle the problem humanely and legally.

Squirrel Removal in Houston

As Houston continues to expand, the issue of squirrel infestations will only grow. It’s important to be aware of the signs and take preventative steps to protect your home. Remember, squirrels aren’t just pests; they’re part of our ecosystem, and managing them responsibly is key to preserving the delicate balance between urban development and native wildlife.

Stay vigilant, and if you hear that telltale scratching in your attic, don’t wait. Contact Critter Control to assess and address any rodent or wildlife issues before they lead to costly damage.

About the Author

Roger has over 20 years of experience in sales, management, and business development. Roger has over five years helping customers identify nuisance wildlife problems throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Louisana, New Mexico, and Colorado. As Region Sales Manager, he recruits, trains, and mentors Critter Control’s wildlife sales consultants throughout the South Central region.

Rodents are the most commonly encountered mammal in Texas. Some of the most common rodents you’ll find in your Houston area home are:

1. Norway Rats
2. Roof Rats
3. House Mice
4. Eastern Gray Squirrels

The deer mouse, White Footed Mouse and nutria are other rodents in Houston area that can be a nuisance but aren’t as prevalent.

Homeowners in the Houston area tend to notice rodent feces or strange sounds in their walls and attics first. Rodent problems extend beyond those nuisances. Feces can transmit diseases. Rodents gnawing on electrical wires can increase the risk of fires. The pests introduce parasites like fleas into your house.

Critter Control in Houston specializes in rodent removal and control. Rodent removal begins with a thorough inspection to determine how severe the problem is. The more established rodents are, the more involved the removal process will be. After inspecting, our wildlife specialist will build a custom solution to trap, remove, and seal all entry points.

Rodent Damage in Houston

Home Inspection for Rodents

During a rodent inspection, our inspector will thoroughly inspect your attic as well as provide a full exterior home inspection. The most common signs of rodent activity are chewing, droppings, rub marks, nesting material, and small entry points.

The most common areas to find a rodent infestation are in your attic, in the crawlspace, and inside the walls. You’re likely to find evidence of rats and mice in your kitchen as they scavenge for food.

Signs of Norway Rats in Attic

Rodent Removal & Trapping

Based on the inspection, our wildlife specialist creates a strategic trapping plan to remove the rodents found in your home. Types of traps, placement of traps, and bait used in traps determine the effectiveness of rodent trapping.

Our wildlife specialist will ensure to use of the most efficient and safe removal process for your home. Though the standard rat trapping/removal duration is normally between 5 to 14 days, the trapping process may be longer if the rodents are well-established.

Rodent Control in Your Attic

There are a few ways to rodent-proof your attic, and most of them start before the rodents reach the attic. Some rodents like mice can fit through openings as small as half an inch in diameter, which means that small holes, gaps in doorways, and wall vents often serve as common entry points.

Rats are also proficient swimmers capable of traveling through sewer lines and entering buildings by emerging from toilets and open drains.

Check your roof and soffits for any small holes. Any rodent can take a pre-existing hole and gnaw it to make it bigger. Another way rodents can get into your home is through your vents. There are a few ways you can keep rodents out of your vents.

Rodent Control for the Crawl Space

Rodents can easily find their way into your crawlspaces. Norway rats and mice are the most common rodents in crawl spaces. Norway rats tend to burrow along the foundations of homes.

Rodent Exclusion

Rodent exclusion is the best rodent control method. The rats and mice got into your home. During the Critter Control free inspection in Houston and surrounding areas, our technicians identified all current and potential animal entry points.

After rodent removal, it is essential to repair any entry points on your home. Rodents leave pheromone trails, and other rodents quickly utilize those scent trails.

Habitat Modification for Rodent Control

Food sources, water sources, and shelter attract rats, mice, and squirrels to your house. Our technicians can offer simple ways to make your property less appealing to rodents.

Keep pet food inside and stored it. Removing trees or branches close to your roof and keep your property clear of debris can help to keep your property rodent free. Rodents love clutter and will use debris for nesting material.

Keep your garage door closed as much as possible, especially at dark. Garages are often used as storage spaces, and rodents will take advantage of any food they can get to or any items that can be used for nesting.

When Will I See Rodents Most?

Rats and mice are nocturnal and active year-round in Texas. Squirrels are diurnal and most likely to enter your home during their breeding seasons.

Hurricane season is the most popular time of year for Houston rodents to venture outside of their homes. However, limiting their activity to hurricane season is not entirely true. Anytime there are large rainfalls and flooding, we should be extra cautious when it comes to rodent invasion. Flooding forces rodents to venture inside.

Pest Control vs Wildlife Removal Services

Critter Control specializes in whole-home exclusions. We identify the rodent entry points and install materials designed to keep rodents out. We offer a one year warranty on whole home exclusions and suggest recurring rodent control services to keep your home protected.

Andrew Cuen, the district manager for Critter Control of Phoenix, appeared on 12News to help educate Phoenix residents about wildlife activity.

Read the full article here.

Living in Florida, we love our warm temperatures, beaches, lakes, and wetlands; unfortunately, so do mosquitoes. When mosquito season starts, our lush, tropical paradise can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes who want nothing more than to bite every living creature in sight, including you.

Mosquitoes are not only irritating when they bite, but can also spread diseases. You need expert mosquito control professionals. Most mosquito repellent sprays simply don’t work. We have a better solution.

When to Prepare for Mosquito Season?

Mosquito larvae will generally begin to hatch around March or April in North Florida, but a particularly warm winter can bring them out earlier.

How it Works

Critter Control Gainesville’s Mosquito Trap is made of strong plastic and uses water with a specific odor that attracts mosquitoes. Once inside, mosquitoes contact the specially treated gauze near the water surface and get contaminated with a larvicide and a fungus.

We know that mosquitos like to divide their eggs over many sites so we let them fly out of the Trap while carrying larvicide on their legs. They transport the larvicide, contaminating many breeding sites around the trap.

In this way, we can kill larvae in small, hard-to-find breeding sites. The mosquito also gets infected with an insect-specific fungus that kills her before she can spread diseases.

The Best Mosquito Plan

Once Mosquitoes start to bite it means the eggs have hatched and they are active. Although it’s not to late to control mosquitoes at this point, Critter Control recommends starting to control these pests before they are active.

Contact a mosquito control specialist at Critter Control for a free inspection and consultation. We’ll prepare a plan that will give you the best defense possible for the summer so that you can enjoy your outdoor living spaces.

Since 1983, Critter Control has been helping keep families safe from harmful pests. If you’d like a free inspection and consultation with a Critter Control Technician, call us at 352-372-3922.

In2 Care Mosquito Field Trial

• In2Care Traps kept mosquito populations at lower levels than conventional control
• There were clear reductions in Aedes eggs, larvae & adults in the In2Care Trap site
• Also impact on container-breeding Culex was observed

Birds are an essential part of Wisconsin’s wildlife, but when they take up residence in or around your home, they can cause more harm than harmony. Homeowners in Green Bay and across the state often face a variety of bird-related issues, particularly in the spring and summer months. From clogged vents to unsanitary droppings, bird problems can escalate quickly if not addressed. We understand the unique challenges local homeowners face and how to prevent them humanely and effectively.

Common Bird Problems in Wisconsin Homes
Nesting in Vents and Chimneys

Birds like starlings, sparrows, and swallows often seek out warm, sheltered spots to nest—making vents, chimneys, and exhaust openings prime targets. While it may seem harmless, nesting in these areas can lead to serious complications. Blocked dryer vents and bathroom exhausts can cause poor airflow, moisture buildup, and even fire hazards. In chimneys, nests can create dangerous obstructions that lead to smoke damage or carbon monoxide buildup. Additionally, these nests often attract mites, fleas, and other pests, creating a health risk for the people inside the home.

Gutter and Roof Damage

Gutters offer another inviting nesting spot for certain bird species. Unfortunately, nesting materials and droppings can clog gutters, leading to water overflow that damages fascia boards, soffits, and shingles. Prolonged clogging can also cause water to pool around the foundation, potentially leading to structural issues over time. Birds frequently perched on rooftops can also contribute to wear and tear, especially when combined with the corrosive effects of droppings.

Bird Droppings

Accumulations of bird droppings aren’t just an eyesore—they pose real health and property risks. Droppings are highly acidic and can erode paint, metal, and stone surfaces, leading to costly repairs. They also carry harmful pathogens such as histoplasmosis and Salmonella, which can become airborne or be accidentally inhaled or ingested during cleaning. Areas like decks, walkways, and vehicles can quickly become unsanitary when used as regular perches.

Aggressive Behavior During Nesting Season

Many homeowners in Wisconsin report aggressive bird behavior during nesting season. Birds such as robins or swallows may become territorial and act defensively when they perceive threats to their nests. This can lead to swooping or dive-bombing behaviors that are especially alarming to children and pets. In some cases, outdoor areas may become nearly unusable until the nesting season is over, turning your backyard from a place of relaxation into a source of stress.

How to Prevent Bird Problems

While some bird presence is inevitable, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of serious issues. Prevention starts with understanding how birds choose their nesting sites and taking proactive steps to make your home less inviting.

Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home’s exterior regularly and seal any small gaps or holes near soffits, attic vents, or eaves. Installing vent covers and chimney caps made from durable metal mesh can effectively block birds from accessing these sheltered areas without disrupting airflow.

Gutter Guards and Roof Maintenance

Keep your gutters clear by installing bird-resistant gutter guards and cleaning them seasonally. Trim overhanging branches that provide easy access to your roof, and watch for signs of nesting activity like twigs, feathers, or droppings.

Bird Spikes and Netting

For areas where birds consistently perch or roost—such as roof edges, signs, or ledges—bird spikes offer a humane deterrent that makes it uncomfortable for them to land. Netting is another effective option for protecting balconies, patios, or garages from nesting attempts.

Limit Food Sources

Eliminate easily accessible food sources by securing garbage bins and avoiding outdoor feeding of pets. If you enjoy feeding wild birds, consider placing feeders farther away from your home to reduce nesting nearby.

Use Visual Deterrents

Birds are cautious creatures and can often be scared away by simple visual deterrents such as reflective tape, predator decoys, or motion-activated devices. These can be especially useful during peak nesting season in the spring.

Professional Help When You Need It

If you’re currently dealing with a bird problem, professional intervention may be necessary. At Critter Control of Green Bay, we specialize in humane bird removal and Wildlife Exclusion Services techniques tailored to your specific situation. Our trained technicians understand the nesting habits and behaviors of local bird species and can implement safe, long-term solutions to protect your home.