Keep Unwanted Guests Away This Thanksgiving: Wildlife Control Tips for a Safe and Cozy Holiday

As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us look forward to gathering with family and friends, enjoying delicious meals, and creating lasting memories. But while you’re preparing for your holiday feast, local wildlife might be looking for their own invitation into your home! At Bay Area Wildlife Solutions, we specialize in humane wildlife control, helping Delaware and Maryland homeowners keep their homes safe and critter-free during the holiday season.

Common Wildlife Problems During Thanksgiving

As temperatures continue to drop, many animals begin seeking warm places to spend the winter—sometimes that means your home! Here are some common wildlife intruders to watch out for as you prepare for Thanksgiving:

  • Squirrels: These furry foragers love to stock up on food, and your attic or garage might seem like the perfect storage spot.
  • Raccoons: Always in search of food, raccoons can be attracted to your trash cans and even your kitchen if they can find a way in.
  • Rodents (Mice & Rats): As it gets colder, rodents look for warmth and easy access to food. They can sneak through tiny cracks in your walls or foundation.
  • Bats: While bats are typically associated with Halloween, they may still be seeking shelter in your attic as temperatures drop further.

How to Prevent Wildlife Intrusions During the Holiday Season

The last thing you want is to have your Thanksgiving dinner disrupted by unwanted critters. Here are some steps to protect your home from wildlife this season:

  1. Check for Gaps and Cracks: Wildlife can enter through even the smallest holes. Make sure to inspect your home’s foundation, roof, windows, and doors for any gaps, and seal them up.
  2. Secure Your Trash: Raccoons and other wildlife are attracted to the smell of food. Make sure your trash cans are tightly sealed and stored away from your home.
  3. Keep Food Indoors: If you’re deep frying a turkey or hosting outdoor festivities, be cautious about leaving food scraps or leftovers outside, which could attract wildlife.
  4. Maintain Your Yard: Clear fallen leaves, branches, and other debris that could serve as shelter for rodents or squirrels. Trim back trees that hang over your roof to prevent easy access.
  5. Install Chimney Caps and Vent Covers: Raccoons and birds often try to enter homes through chimneys or vents, so it’s important to install protective caps or covers.

Why Thanksgiving Wildlife Control Matters

While wildlife may be cute from a distance, their presence in your home can cause real problems. Animals can chew through insulation, wires, and even damage your home’s structure. Some wildlife, like rodents and bats, can also carry diseases, posing a health risk to your family and guests. That’s why it’s important to address wildlife issues before they get out of hand—especially before the busy holiday season.

How Bay Area Wildlife Solutions Can Help

If you hear strange noises in your attic or notice signs of wildlife activity, don’t wait until after Thanksgiving to act. At Bay Area Wildlife Solutions, we offer:

  • Thorough inspections to identify signs of wildlife and entry points.
  • Humane trapping and removal to safely get rid of unwanted critters.
  • Wildlife exclusion services to prevent future issues by sealing entry points.
  • Cleanup and repair services to restore any damage caused by animals.

Enjoy a Peaceful, Critter-Free Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, make sure your only guests are the ones you’ve invited. Contact Bay Area Wildlife Solutions for expert wildlife control and exclusion services in Sussex County, Kent County, Talbot County, and beyond. We’ll help you keep your home cozy, safe, and free from unwanted intrusions—so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday season!