Oct 19, 2023 | Wildlife
Bats are often misunderstood and feared by many, but they play an essential role in maintaining the balance of Georgia’s ecosystem. Georgia is home to 16 different types of bats, each contributing to the environment in unique and beneficial ways. Let’s go over some common Georgia bats and why they are so beneficial to humans.
Common Bats in Georgia
- Eastern Red Bat: These small, tree roosting bats are often seen in heavily wooded areas. They have rusty-red fur which makes them more recognizable when seen.
- Big Brown Bat: These bats are on the larger size and are known for their robust appearance. They often roost in buildings and feed on insects.
- Little Brown Bat: These bats are common in Georgia and play a vital role in controlling insect populations.
Benefits of Bats in Georgia
- Some species can consume their body weight in insects each night. This helps keep populations of pests low, including mosquitoes.
- Bats are also very beneficial in pollinating certain flowers, including some fruit-bearing species.
- They also help aid in forest regeneration by dispersing seeds. The fruits they feed on contain seeds and then they transport the seeds to various locations.
Conservation Efforts of Bats
While bats offer numerous benefits, they face several threats. This includes habitat loss, disease, and disturbance in roosting sites. Georgia has conservation initiatives aimed at protecting these creatures by protecting their roosting sites, educating the public, and monitoring bat populations for diseases, like white-nose syndrome.
Removing bats is a delicate matter in the state of Georgia and should only be handled by licensed wildlife control professionals. If you suspect you have bats in your home, be sure to give your local wildlife control company a call today!
Oct 5, 2023 | Wildlife
Cooler weather is approaching, and this means that wildlife will soon begin searching for warmth and shelter. This could result in them entering your home and making it their sanctuary for the season. Let’s go over common wildlife in Georgia you might see this fall and how you can deter them away from your home!
Common Wildlife in Georgia
Snakes:
Snakes can be more common in the fall time, as they start to search for a place to begin their hibernation or brumation over the winter months. Snakes might also be more noticeable as certain snake species mate in the fall months. These creatures can go into hiding as late as December, so it’s important to keep an eye out for them until then. Sealing cracks in your foundation and making your property less appealing to them will help deter them from seeking shelter nearby.
Rodents:
Rats and mice will often seek shelter in your home as it provides them with a readily available food supply throughout the winter. You will begin to hear their activity in the walls and attic in the fall as they start storing food in their nests. Keep these rodents out of your home by sealing up holes inside and outside of your home and storing food in airtight containers.
Raccoons:
These nocturnal creatures will mostly be seen searching for food at nighttime throughout the fall. They begin searching for food in the fall to prepare for the winter months when food is scarce. Food scarcity will encourage them to be more active and creative in their search for food, which often leads them to your garbage cans. Some preventative ways to ensure raccoons don’t enter your home this fall include utilizing a lid on your garbage can and storing it outside. Likewise, seal any entry points on the exterior of your home.
Squirrels:
In the autumn months, squirrels have a habit of “bulking up” in preparation for the colder season. It’s common for them to seek refuge in attics, using these spaces to build their nests and stash their food supplies. However, their presence in homes can be particularly problematic since they tend to gnaw through wires and wood, potentially causing substantial damage to your residence. The best prevention tips for squirrels are to install chimney caps or screens and to take down bird feeders in the fall.
Wildlife control can be a difficult task due to some regulations for certain species. Give your local Georgia wildlife company a call today for a customized plan and a free inspection!
Sep 15, 2023 | Wildlife
When it comes to living in the beautiful state of Georgia, there’s no denying that the warm climate and lush landscapes come with their fair share of wildlife encounters. One of the most common and, for many, dreaded encounters is with snakes. While Georgia is home to a variety of snake species, understanding snake control, prevention, and removal techniques is essential for safeguarding your property and your loved ones. In this blog post, we’ll explore common snakes in Georgia, when snake season typically occurs, and effective ways to keep these slithering neighbors at bay.
Common Snakes in Georgia
Before delving into snake control methods, let’s familiarize ourselves with some of the common snake species found in Georgia:
- Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: This venomous snake is one of the largest rattlesnake species in the world. They are mostly found in the southern part of the state.
- Copperhead: Copperheads are venomous and often have a copper-colored head. They are prevalent throughout Georgia.
- Eastern Coral Snake: Although rare, these venomous snakes can be found in certain parts of the state, particularly in the southern regions.
- Black Rat Snake: Non-venomous and beneficial for controlling rodent populations. They are widespread throughout Georgia.
- Eastern Garter Snake: Another non-venomous species often found in gardens and grassy areas.
- Eastern King Snake: These are known for their striking appearance and are valuable for keeping other snake populations in check.
When is Snake Season in Georgia?
Snake season in Georgia typically begins in the spring and lasts through the fall. During this time, snakes become more active as they search for food and suitable breeding grounds. It’s essential to be especially vigilant during these months to reduce the likelihood of unwanted snake encounters.
Ways to Keep Snakes Away from Your Home
Now that we’ve discussed common snakes and their active seasons, let’s explore effective snake control and prevention techniques to protect your home and family:
1. Maintain a Tidy Yard:
- Trim tall grass and overgrown vegetation.
- Keep firewood and debris piles away from your home.
- Regularly clean up fallen leaves and debris.
2. Seal Entry Points:
- Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks in the foundation, walls, and doors.
- Seal gaps around utility pipes and drainage lines.
- Repair damaged screens and vents.
3. Remove Attractants:
- Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids.
- Keep bird feeders and pet food indoors or in secure containers.
- Minimize rodent populations to reduce snake prey.
4. Install Snake Fencing:
- Consider installing snake-proof fencing around your property.
- These barriers can deter snakes from entering your yard.
5. Professional Snake Control and Removal:
- If you spot a snake on your property or inside your home, do not attempt to handle it yourself.
- Contact a licensed pest control professional for safe snake removal.
Protecting Yourself from Snake Bites
While preventing snake encounters is the first line of defense, it’s also crucial to know how to protect yourself from snake bites:
- Wear sturdy boots and long pants when working in areas where snakes may be present.
- Be cautious when stepping over rocks, logs, or tall grass.
- Use a flashlight at night to watch your step in snake-prone areas.
Request a Free Wildlife Control Quote
The importance of effective snake control and removal cannot be stressed enough. While Georgia’s natural beauty and warm climate make it an attractive place to live, it’s essential to be prepared for encounters with snakes. By following these snake control and prevention tips, you can create a safer environment for your family and minimize the chances of unwelcome snake guests. Remember that professional assistance through your local pest control company is just a phone call away if you ever need help with snake removal or control. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and enjoy all that Georgia has to offer!
Jul 13, 2023 | Wildlife
Raccoons are common wildlife found around homes or anywhere they can find an available food source. Although they look cute and cuddly, they are very aggressive when cornered and can cause significant damage to your home and yard.
Raccoons mate in February and March and litters are born 60-70 days after. They have anywhere from 2 to 5 kits per litter. Young raccoons are fully weaned and independent from their mothers in the summer, which is why we often see more of them this time of year. Mother raccoons are finding food and new nesting sites for their newly independent babies.
Raccoons will nest high in trees and are often found in our attics and crawlspaces. They are omnivores and will feed on anything, often raiding our trashcans for a meal. In late summer, they increase their food intake to build up their fat layers for the upcoming winter months.
Raccoons cause damage by upending trashcans and spreading trash across our yards, leaving droppings behind that contaminate our homes, urinating in attics which contaminates insulation and can cause mold, chewing through wires causing fire hazards, and shredding insulation for nests which can lead to costly damages and increased heating and air bills.
You can prevent raccoons by:
- Getting rid of food sources. These pests won’t hang around if there’s nothing to eat. Secure trashcan lids with either locking lids, bungee cords, or heavy items like cinder blocks placed on top. Bring pet food and bird feeders inside overnight. Clean up fruit that may have fallen from trees on the ground.
- Sealing entrances. Raccoons prefer to nest in dark, cozy spaces. They will often nest in attics, crawlspaces, and under porches. Block off entrances to these areas by closing gaps in attics, roofs, and siding and installing trellises around the bottom of porches.
- Calling professional wildlife control. They can be very aggressive when cornered or trapped. Contact your local pest control company who can safely remove and relocate raccoons from your property.
Jun 27, 2023 | Wildlife
Summer is a time when wildlife is often more active and visible around your home. While it can be exciting to see these animals, it’s important to take precautions to keep them out of your home and prevent any potential damage. Here is the most common summer wildlife you’ll begin seeing soon and some tips on how you can keep these critters away!
Squirrels
Squirrels are a common sight in many neighborhoods during the summer. While they can be fun to watch, they can also cause damage to your home and property.
To prevent squirrels in your attic or crawlspace:
- Make sure to seal any gaps in your home’s exterior
- Fix any holes in your roof or siding
- Trim back any tree branches that may be close to your home
Raccoons
Raccoons are another common summer wildlife that you may find around your home. They can be attracted to garbage cans and compost bins.
To prevent raccoons from being attracted to your property:
- Make sure to also seal any gaps or holes in your roof or siding
- Use trash cans with sealed lids
Snakes
Snakes are more active during the summer months and may be found around your home or yard. It’s not often that you’ll see venomous snakes near your property, but there are some that live in Georgia. Just be on the lookout while outside hiking or walking through wooded areas.
To prevent snakes from entering your home:
- Make sure to seal any gaps or holes in your foundation or walls
- Keep your yard tidy and free of debris
We hope these tips will help lessen the chances of wildlife finding their way indoors this summer. If you begin to suspect your home might have some uninvited guests, give your local wildlife control company a call today!
