Many areas in the United States are known for their abundance and variety of wildlife. To the surprise of some people, wildlife can even be found in and around the urban areas of many of our large cities. The presence of wildlife in the cities is usually a delight to urban dwellers.
However, the close proximity of wildlife sometimes causes problems. Most people agree that a porcupine in an apple tree, a family of skunks under the front porch or a squirrel in the fireplace can be unsettling. Many people encounter these situations, yet few know what to do about them.
Avoiding Conflicts:
- Cover window wells with commercially available grates or bubbles, or make a cover yourself using quarter-inch hardware cloth or chicken wire.
- Close holes around and under the foundation of your home so that animals will not be tempted to homestead. Bury wire mesh 1 to 2 feet deep in places where animals might gain access.
- Don't give wildlife the opportunity to get into your garbage. Store it in metal or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. Keep the cans In a garage or shed, and put trash out only when it's scheduled to be picked up.
- Keep pet food inside.
- If birds are flying into windows, mark them with three strips of white tape or with raptor silhouettes.
- Fence gardens and cover fruit trees with commercially available netting to protect your harvest.
- Screen fireplace chimneys and furnace, attic and dryer vents, and keep dampers closed to avoid "drop-in" guests. Chimney tops should be screened from February to September to prevent birds and animals from nesting inside. To prevent fire and safety hazards, check with a knowledgeable source before attempting this.
- Seal all cracks and holes larger than a one-quarter inch in diameter to keep out rats, mice, bats and snakes.
An Ounce Of Prevention
The key to avoiding problem wildlife encounters is keeping unwanted wildlife out of homes, buildings and yards.
Here is a tip: DO NOT FEED WILDLIFE! Feeding songbirds is okay, but be aware it may attract other animals. Place bird feeders where they are not accessible to other wildlife species. Wild animals are capable of finding plenty of food on their own.
(Excerpts Courtesy of Colorado Division of Wildlife)
Rodney says, “ If birds are flying into windows, mark them with three strips of white tape or with raptor silhouettes."
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