The great outdoors and “nature” wouldn’t be complete without wildlife. Deer, raccoons, opossum, squirrels, and chipmunks are a few of the critters we see in woodlands, grassy fields, and other ecological habitats.
But having these sometimes-destructive varmints in your own backyard can be a problem. Wildlife-proofing outdoor living spaces like patios, pools, and pergolas is a good way to keep your homestead safe and clean.
DO Fence Me In!
Fences are a great way to keep your backyard critter-free—if you have the right kind. Backyard fencing ideas include those made with wood, wrought iron, glass, steel mesh, and chain link.
Pool fencing laws vary by state, but utilizing tall structures are effective, not only for keeping small children from becoming interested in that attractive nuisance, but for deterring (most) wildlife from taking an uninvited swim. (Ducks and geese may have different ideas, though!). Deter wildlife from going after algae by cleaning the pool regularly.
Clean and Litter-free
Just as humans need food and water to live, so do mice, rats, moles, raccoons, deer, and other wildlife—and they’ll come looking for sustenance in and around your home. Outdoor kitchens are great for entertaining, but leftover food scraps and crumbs attract more than just bugs.
Keep critters away from your patio and outdoor living space by storing food in airtight containers, sealing garbage and compost bins, cleaning up crumbs and liquid spills, and sweeping up excess bird food from the feeders. Regular home pest inspections for indoors and outdoors will determine how effective your attempts are when it comes to wildlife-proofing.
Landscaping
Well-sculpted landscaping on residential property has several purposes. While it enhances the property and provides a sense of privacy and security, trees and shrubbery also invite birds, bees, and various types of fauna to the yard.
Mowing the lawn and pruning bushes and trees as needed help to deter wildlife, especially if critters like skunks, mice, raccoons, and opossum cannot find a place for nesting. Flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are also a draw for raccoons. Fruit trees and vegetable gardens welcome rabbits and deer.
Pergolas and Patios
Open-structured pergolas typically come in either wood, vinyl, steel, or fiberglass. In any case, the “openness” of the pergola invites critters in—especially if there is fabric and food scraps available. (Fabric is used for nesting materials). Adding screens or mesh to shield the open areas of a pergola may deter animals from checking out the scene, looking for food and shelter.
Open air patios aren’t easy to pest-proof, but removing outdoor furniture when not in use helps to keep animals from finding warmth in cushions and chair pads. Clean up all liquid spills—especially from drinks that have sugar in them—if you want to keep wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets at bay.
Outdoor “Security”
Deterring wildlife from hanging out on your property is really a hit or miss concept, but you can try these options, too.
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Naturally scented things that animals don’t like will keep them from getting too cozy on your property. For example, deer are not very partial to lavender, eucalyptus, urine, hot pepper, and garlic—just to name a few.
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Motion-activated security lights may frighten critters away from your home and outdoor living space.
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Dogs and outdoor cats are often good “watch” animals. “On duty” pets might do their job pretty well (but watch out for skunks).
Pesky varmints that live outdoors can also get inside your home. Inspect the house for cracks and holes in the foundation, entry points, windows, roofing, windows, and the chimney. Mice and squirrels can take up residence in the attic, crawlspace, and basement. If your home is being pestered by wildlife, the Wildlife X Team is here to help.
Teri Silver is a journalist and outdoor enthusiast. She and her husband live on 5 acres with a vast lawn, three gardens, a farm, a pond, many trees, and a lot of yard work! The best parts of the year are summer and fall when home-grown veggies are on the dinner table.