Wildlife Removal After Freezing Temperatures

As winter temperatures drop and freezing conditions set in, wildlife often seeks shelter in homes, attics, basements, and crawl spaces. When the weather begins to warm up, many homeowners in North Texas find evidence of unexpected animal guests that have taken refuge inside their properties. Proper wildlife removal after freezing temperatures is essential to prevent damage, health risks, and future infestations.

Why Do Animals Enter Homes in Winter?

During extreme cold, many animals struggle to find warmth and food outdoors. To survive, they may seek out human-made structures, taking advantage of small entry points and weak spots in a home’s exterior. Common winter invaders include:

• Rodents (rats, mice, and squirrels) – These small creatures squeeze through tiny gaps in search of warmth and food.
• Raccoons – Intelligent and resourceful, raccoons enter attics and chimneys to escape freezing conditions.
• Opossums – They may burrow under porches, decks, or inside crawl spaces.
• Snakes – Though less active in winter, some snakes may seek warmth inside basements or garages.

Once inside, these animals can cause significant damage by chewing on wires, contaminating insulation, and leaving behind waste.

Steps for Wildlife Exclusion After Winter

Inspect Your Home for Entry Points

As temperatures rise, wildlife will either leave their hiding places or become more active inside your home. Inspect the following areas for signs of entry:

• Gaps around doors, windows, and vents
• Open chimneys or damaged roof shingles
• Cracks in the foundation or walls
• Broken screens or open attic vents
• Crawl space openings

Look for signs such as droppings, gnaw marks, fur, or nesting materials.

Seal Off Entry Points

Once you’ve identified possible access points, it’s crucial to seal them properly. Use the following methods:

• Steel mesh for vents and chimney openings
• Caulking or expanding foam for small cracks and gaps
• Heavy-duty hardware cloth to block crawl space openings
• Weather stripping around doors and windows

Sealing entry points helps prevent future infestations and prevents needing wildlife removal after freezing temperatures.

Remove Attractants

Wildlife is drawn to homes not only for warmth but also for easy food sources. Make your property less inviting by:

• Securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids
• Removing food from outdoor areas
• Keeping bird feeders away from the house
• Cleaning up fallen fruit or debris from trees
• Trimming back overgrown vegetation near the home

Address Interior Infestations

If animals have already nested inside, professional removal may be necessary. Signs that an infestation has occurred include:

• Strange noises (scratching, scurrying, or chirping) in walls or attic
• Unpleasant odors from droppings or urine
• Damaged insulation, wires, or ductwork

Never attempt to remove wildlife on your own, as many animals can carry diseases or become aggressive when cornered.

Hire Professional Wildlife Control Services

If you suspect animals have taken refuge inside your home, a professional wildlife removal service can:

• Safely remove the animals without harm
• Clean and sanitize contaminated areas
• Repair entry points and recommend long-term exclusion strategies

As winter fades, it’s important to assess your home for signs of wildlife activity and take preventative measures to keep animals out. By inspecting for entry points, sealing gaps, removing attractants, and calling professional wildlife control when necessary, you can protect your home from unwanted intruders. Wildlife exclusion after freezing temperatures isn’t just about removing animals—it’s about ensuring they don’t return.

If you need expert assistance with wildlife removal after freezing temperatures in North Texas, reach out to a professional service to safeguard your home today.

Are you in need of wildlife removal? Our friendly operators at Dallas Fort Worth Wildlife Control are available now at (817) 606-7607. Find out more about our wildlife removal in Arlington and Fort Worth, TX.