Cleveland’s blend of city life and natural surroundings makes it a great place to live—not just for people, but for wildlife, too. While these creatures play an important role in the ecosystem, they can become a serious nuisance when they invade residential properties. At Critter Control of Cleveland, we believe that prevention is key. Here are some of the best practices for keeping your home and yard wildlife-free.
Secure Entry Points
One of the most effective ways to keep wildlife out is by sealing up access points around your home. Wild animals are resourceful and can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps in siding, roofing, vents, and chimneys. Inspect your home's exterior regularly for signs of wear or openings, especially near the roofline, foundation, and attic vents. Use durable materials like steel mesh or hardware cloth to close off these entry points. A seasonal inspection and quick fixes can prevent animals from moving in and causing damage.
Manage Trash and Compost Carefully
Garbage is one of the biggest attractants for wildlife, especially raccoons, opossums, and rodents. These animals are drawn to the smell of food scraps and will dig through unsecured trash bins or compost piles to find a meal. To avoid this, use wildlife-resistant garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and store them in a garage or shed when possible. If you compost, avoid including meat, dairy, or oily foods. Responsible waste management is an easy and essential way to keep animals from turning your property into a buffet.
Keep Your Yard Clean and Maintained
Wild animals look for quiet, sheltered areas to nest—and a cluttered or overgrown yard offers just that. Keep your lawn mowed, trim back bushes, and clear away brush piles or yard debris. Prune tree limbs away from your roof to discourage squirrels or raccoons from climbing up. Firewood should be stacked at least 20 feet from your home and raised several inches off the ground. A tidy yard leaves fewer hiding spots for wildlife and makes your property less appealing overall.
Don’t Leave Pet Food Outdoors
Feeding pets outside can unintentionally invite wild animals to dinner. Even small amounts of leftover food can attract raccoons, skunks, or stray animals. Whenever possible, feed your pets indoors. If you must feed them outside, clean up bowls immediately after mealtime and avoid leaving water out overnight. Store pet food in tightly sealed containers indoors to prevent odors from attracting wildlife. This small change can have a big impact on keeping your home critter-free.
Protect Gardens and Bird Feeders
Your vegetable garden or bird feeder may be inviting more than just birds and bunnies. Deer, groundhogs, and squirrels often raid gardens and feeders for easy snacks. To prevent this, consider using fencing around gardens—at least three feet tall and buried a foot underground to stop burrowing. Choose bird feeders with built-in squirrel deterrents and bring them in at night to discourage nocturnal animals. These precautions allow you to enjoy nature while minimizing conflicts with it.
Call in the Professionals When Needed
Even with the best prevention practices, persistent wildlife can still find a way in. That’s when it’s time to bring in the experts. Critter Control of Cleveland provides professional wildlife inspections, humane removal services, and custom exclusion plans to protect your home long-term. Our team understands local wildlife behaviors and tailors our approach to fit the specific challenges of Ohio properties. Partnering with professionals gives you peace of mind that your home is in good hands.
Staying One Step Ahead
Living near nature has its perks, but it also requires some responsibility. By taking proactive steps—like sealing entry points, securing trash, and maintaining your yard—you can create strong boundaries that keep wildlife where it belongs. And if problems do arise, Critter Control of Cleveland is here to help with safe, effective solutions. With a little effort and the right support, you can keep your property protected year-round.