Dec 13, 2013 | Uncategorized
Noises in Your Attic? Could be a raccoon.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
Raccoons are one of the most charismatic species of animals found in North America. They are said to be very intelligent; they can remember the solution to tasks up to three years later.
- 16 to 28 inches in length
- Weighs 8 to 20 lbs
- Grayish in color with white and black facial markings
HABITS
- Superb ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
- Common residents in cities, towns, and suburbs.
- Will live in hollowed out trees, caves, or even an attic or garage if they find one available.
- Consume both animal and plant matter.
- Diet varies with locality, season, and availability.
THREATS
- Commonly raid gardens, garbage cans, bird feeders, fish-ponds, and even kitchen cabinets.
- Have been known to use door knobs which makes cabinet doors fair game.
- A pet door is an open invitation into a home.
PREVENTION
- Provide an exclusion barrier where needed.
- Live cages around garbage cans.
For more information on raccoons and other wildlife removal, call Northwest Exterminating.
Nov 22, 2013 | Uncategorized
The Proper Steps to Getting Rodents Out of Your Home
If you’ve read this blog before then you know that prevention is key. Whether talking about ants, termites, mice, or other pests and rodents, prevention is always the first step. Taking the proper steps to prevent these creatures from entering your home is the key to eliminating pest and rodent problems.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, rodents, such as rats and mice, spread over 35 diseases. Their diseases are spread through contamination by urine, feces, saliva, or bites.
So what are the proper steps to getting rid of rodents in your home?
First, is a thorough inspection of your home by a licensed professional who is knowledgeable about wildlife removal. Northwest Exterminating’s wildlife team specializes in the exclusion, removal, and control of rodents and wildlife. The wildlife team will inspect your property for any current infestations and points of entry. After that, they will work with you to customize a plan to get rid of any current rodents and the necessary steps to prevent future rodent infestations.
Second, is trapping the rodent. After your rodent control specialist has inspected your property and identified the infestation they will place traps or bait in the areas where the rodents will most likely travel.
Third, after rodents have been trapped and controlled, the wildlife team will work with you to take the necessary steps to prevent future rats and mice from returning. Proper prevention can include but is not limited to sealing cracks, blocking off entry points, eliminating food sources, and cutting back tree limbs from the roofline.
Lastly, it is very important that after the rodents have been properly trapped and out of your home that the area is carefully cleaned to avoid the spread of disease. Droppings and urine should be cleaned immediately, any nests should be removed, damaged wires repaired, and contaminated insulation should be replaced.
For more questions on rodent or wildlife control please call 888-466-7849 or visit us at www.callnorthwest.com
