Maryland’s diverse ecosystems make it a beautiful place to live, but they also create opportunities for wildlife to wander into residential areas. While most wildlife encounters are harmless, some animals can cause damage to homes, pose health risks, or disrupt daily life. Knowing the most common wildlife issues can help homeowners take proactive steps to protect their properties and families. Here are some of the most frequent wildlife problems Maryland homeowners face and tips for addressing them.
Squirrels in the Attic
Squirrels are agile climbers, and attics make an ideal nesting spot, especially during colder months. They often enter through gaps in roofs or soffits, causing structural damage and leaving behind droppings that can carry disease.
Prevention Tip: Seal potential entry points with durable materials like steel mesh and keep tree branches trimmed away from your home.
Raccoons in Crawl Spaces
Raccoons are resourceful and can find their way into crawl spaces, chimneys, or attics. They’re known for tearing up insulation, chewing on wires, and leaving behind waste that can harbor diseases like leptospirosis.
Prevention Tip: Install chimney caps and reinforce crawl space vents to keep raccoons out. Avoid leaving pet food or trash outside overnight, as it attracts these curious critters.
Bats in the Attic or Walls
Bats play an essential role in controlling insect populations, but they can become a problem when they hide out in attics or walls. Their guano can accumulate quickly, leading to unpleasant odors and health hazards such as histoplasmosis.
Prevention Tip: Install bat-proofing measures, such as exclusion devices, during the fall or winter when bats are less likely to be present. Avoid handling bats directly, as some may carry rabies.
Groundhogs Burrowing Under Foundations
Groundhogs are notorious diggers and can cause significant damage by burrowing under decks, sheds, or foundations. Their tunnels can undermine the stability of structures and create tripping hazards.
Prevention Tip: Use buried fencing or barriers around decks and sheds to prevent groundhogs from digging underneath.
Birds Nesting in Gutters or Vents
Birds often nest in gutters, vents, or other small openings in homes, which can block airflow, damage roofing, or introduce mites and other pests into the home.
Prevention Tip: Install bird guards or mesh screens over vents and clean gutters regularly to prevent nesting.
Snakes in Basements or Yards
While most snakes in Maryland are non-venomous, finding one in your basement or yard can be alarming. They often enter seeking shelter or prey like rodents.
Prevention Tip: Keep your yard free of debris, tall grass, and other hiding spots. Seal cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation to prevent entry.
Rodents Chewing Wires or Insulation
Mice and rats are common household pests that can chew through wires, insulation, and even structural materials. They also spread diseases through droppings and urine.
Prevention Tip: Store food in sealed containers, regularly clean up crumbs or spills, and seal all entry points, no matter how small.
Partner with K.P. Wildlife for Professional Wildlife Removal
Dealing with wildlife issues can be challenging, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At K.P. Wildlife, we offer humane and effective solutions to address wildlife problems and protect your home. Our experienced team provides thorough inspections, safe removal, and preventive measures to keep animals from returning. Contact us today to schedule an inspection, and let us restore peace and safety to your home.
