Roanoke's Handy Guide To Wildlife Prevention
11/13/2020
When people think of pest control, bugs usually come to mind. Folks tend to forget that there is a slew of animal pests ready and willing to enter their Roanoke home or business. This is even more likely when a property is in close proximity to a body of water or a grassy and wooded area.
One could argue that creatures are a greater threat than insects. They can scratch or bite humans and some can infect people with awful illnesses. Wildlife is frequently linked to the West Nile virus, histoplasmosis, rabies, and Lyme disease. At the very least, these pests can and will destroy structures and belongings. They can do a number of foundations. Take time now to get familiar with local wildlife so you’ll know how to prevent them with help from Star City Pest Control.
What Wildlife Are Common in Roanoke? What Are The Risks?
Among the wildlife known in the region are:
- Rabbits
- Voles
- Birds
- Squirrels
- Foxes
- Groundhogs
- Chipmunks
- Snakes
Racoons, skunks, and bats are also prevalent. Raccoons are tubby and round and can reach 3 feet in length. They have four legs and dark fur that’s a combination of black and brown. Black markings are on their tails and eyes. The ones around their eyes are similar to a face mask. When they exit forests, meadows, and other water spots, they come onto properties. Available fruit, nuts, and animals to prey on will draw raccoons in. Soon, they’ll make themselves at home by building dens near chimneys, attics, and patios.
If you begin to hear startling noises outside or find damaged insulation or roof shingles, you probably have an infestation issue. Also look out for wrecked gardens, wood, and trash cans. You’ll know for sure it’s a raccoon by the paw prints, nesting debris, and feces they leave behind. Beware; these creatures spread intestinal roundworms.
Skunks have elongated bodies that are 1 to 3 feet long. They have four legs and two-toned fur. Some are gray and brown, others are black and white. All have stripes. While they’ll consume anything, berries, plant material, and insects really drive them wild. They ruin lawns with their digging. If they make it indoors, they will go to the basement or garage. Be careful around them; they’ll put out their trademark stinky fluid if they feel threatened. Additionally, they can transmit distemper, histoplasmosis, and salmonella.
Flying bats vary in size and color. They can be 2 to 7 inches long, but they have a wingspan of 5 to 14 inches. Their bodies are covered in hair and are black or tan. If their search for a cave is unsuccessful, they will target homes and businesses. Looking for the closest place to a cave, they’ll get cozy in a garage or attic. Don’t touch their feces if you find it; it consists of fungi that are hazardous.
Most of the aforementioned pests are carriers of rabies. The viral strand of it triggers nervous system difficulties and cognition complications in humans. In the worst case, an individual can die.
How Can You Prevent Wildlife?
To reduce the chances of encountering wildlife, take these precautions:
- Put garbage in cans with secure lids.
- Trim greenery often, and place it two feet from exterior doors.
- Perhaps install a lawn fence.
- Seal gaps around utility and rooflines, foundations, windows, and doors.
What Can Star City Pest Control Do About Wildlife?
The highly-trained technicians at Star City Pest Control have the skills to humanely eradicate wildlife from your property. After a thorough inspection, they will implement a custom treatment plan. Solutions include trapping, exclusion, and methods to prevent future problems. All products will be safe for domestic pets. We pride ourselves on our affordable plans and pricing! Call us today!
Tags: common roanoke wildlife | wildlife prevention | wildlife identificaion |
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