Fall Wildlife Outlook For Richmond Residents
October 15, 2023 - Wildlife

Some residents of Richmond have an appreciation for certain types of wildlife and install features such as birdfeeders, birdhouses, or bird baths to attract them. However, often these attractants will encourage visits from less desirable creatures such as squirrels, rats, or possums. Meanwhile, urban development slowly eliminates existing habitats and deforestation often disrupts the natural ecosystem, which results in forms of wildlife uncharacteristically living in neighborhoods.
Some of the most common types of nuisance wildlife that might enter the homes of property owners in Richmond encounter include squirrels, raccoons, and bats. To a lesser extent, homeowners might also notice the presence of mid-sized predators such as foxes, bobcats, and coyotes.
Are you regularly dealing with problematic forms of nuisance wildlife on your property? The best course of action involves contacting a professional. A local company specializing in pest control services in Richmond understands how to remove these troublesome creatures from the premises and the best strategies to prevent them from returning.
Why Wildlife Problems Are More Common In Fall And Winter
As the weather cools during the fall, many forms of wildlife are increasingly drawn to homes. One reason for this increase involves shortages of food, as many forms of prey retreat into hibernation and the plant life that many animals consume becomes dormant or dies. Further, some types of wildlife seek warmth inside homes and may create indoor nests.
Are you struggling to keep unwanted forms of wildlife from entering your property? Promptly consult with a professional wildlife removal company for assistance with these Richmond pests.
Common Wildlife Threats Facing Richmond Homes
What are some of the most common types of wildlife in the Richmond area that enter the homes of local residents? The following three creatures are among the most prevalent:
Squirrels: Among the most common types of squirrels in the Richmond area include the eastern gray squirrel, the American red squirrel, and the fox squirrel. Homeowners in Richmond, particularly those in tree-lined neighborhoods, notice squirrels as they busily forage for nuts, seeds, leaf buds, and other foods. Squirrels will often enter homes through openings including chimneys or holes in shingles or wood siding and may carry parasites, damage insulation, and chew through wiring.
Raccoons: Raccoons are often the size and weight of a house cat and have distinctive “mask-like” facial fur and gray and black striped tails. Raccoons may contaminate surfaces with their waste and create damage to external vents, soffits, shingles, and drywall.
Bats: As the lone type of flying mammal, bats sometimes invade attics and other upper areas of homes. Bats are known carriers of rabies and generate waste known as guano which can cause serious respiratory concerns.
Have one of the aforementioned types of undesirable wildlife infiltrated your home? Respond promptly by seeking assistance from a trained provider of residential wildlife control services.
Why Homeowners Shouldn't Try To Face Wildlife On Their Own
Property owners are discouraged from trying do-it-yourself methods of expelling wildlife, as these efforts are often ineffective and may pose safety concerns. For example, according to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), some of these creatures carry rabies, which is transmissible among mammals and could create a need for prompt medical attention.
The best way of responding to wildlife intrusions is to contact a local wildlife control company regarding safe and effective nuisance wildlife removal.
Your One-Stop-Shop For Wildlife Control In Richmond
Mitchells Pest Control is a licensed provider of Richmond wildlife control services. We have expertise in trapping, relocating, and excluding types of wildlife that might damage property and pose health risks. Our technicians are trained professionals who use many of the recommended techniques of the Basic Wildlife Control Operators (BWCO) and the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA).
Contact our office today for help with wildlife and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Richmond.