There’s a reason Cookeville (in addition to Monterey, Sparta, and Crossville) was named one of the fastest-growing micropolitan areas. Nestled on the Upper Cumberland Plateau, the world’s longest hardwood forested plateau is home to numerous plants and animals. Once a remote and rugged wilderness, the idyllic landscape continues to attract people and wildlife.
Like people, animals fundamentally need three things- food, shelter, water. Animals are resourceful. As people continually push into wildlife habitats, wildlife will find resources for food, shelter, and water in your home.
What are some of the most common wildlife issues that homeowners face in Cookeville, TN? The most common wildlife issues in Tennessee involve nuisance encounters such as raccoons, squirrels, skunks and bats nesting in homes – and increased numbers of brown recluse spiders along with termite infestations due to urban expansion. All of these interactions with wildlife and pests cause damage to property and homes.
How do the seasons affect nuisance wildlife activity in your area? Seasonal changes drive wildlife activity. Spring brings breeding and nesting while fall/winter brings animals seeing shelter and food. In Tennessee’s high-risk, humid climate, the most common termite-related wildlife issue is infestation by subterranean termites.
What are some common signs of nuisance wildlife activity? Common signs of nuisance wildlife in Middle and East Tennessee include scratching noises in walls or attics, structural damage from chewing, droppings, and musky odors. Common pests like raccoons, squirrels, skunks, and mice often leave behind nesting materials, disturbed insulation, or enter through gaps in roofs, vents, and foundations.
Any prevention tips for residents in your area? Eastern Tennessee homes from wildlife (raccoons, skunks, snakes) and pests by sealing foundation cracks, installing chimney caps, and cleaning gutters.
Key exclusion steps include trimming trees 6–8 feet from roofs, removing debris/woodpiles, securing trash in locked containers, and reducing moisture in crawl spaces.
Effective pest prevention requires sealing entry points, reducing moisture, and maintaining landscaping by trimming shrubs and trees.
To prevent subterranean termites in EasternTennessee, homeowners must eliminate moisture and wood-to-soil contact. Key actions include keeping firewood at least 20 feet from the home, fixing leaky gutters and plumbing immediately, reducing moisture in crawl spaces, and sealing foundation cracks. Schedule annual professional inspections, particularly in early spring.
When should homeowners call Critter Control? Homeowners should call for a free wildlife or pest inspection annually. Spring and fall is ideal and will help catch nesting animals along with winterizing pests. If you hear noises in the attic or see droppings, call immediately to address issues.
If you are seeing spiders or any other pests in the spring, call asap to stop the invasion.
