Wildlife Winter Exclusion: How Snow Affects Wildlife

Winter brings challenges for wildlife as they adapt to colder temperatures and snow-covered landscapes. For homeowners, this season often heightens the risk of animals seeking shelter indoors. Understanding how snow impacts wildlife behavior and the importance of winter exclusion can help protect your home while supporting wildlife in their natural habitats.

How Snow Impacts Wildlife Behavior

1. Limited Food Sources
   Snow buries natural food supplies like nuts, seeds, and vegetation, forcing animals to forage in areas closer to human habitation. This can lead to increased sightings of raccoons, squirrels, and other wildlife rummaging through garbage or bird feeders.
2. Search for Warmth
   Animals like rats, raccoons, and opossums often seek refuge from freezing conditions. Attics, crawl spaces, and basements become attractive due to their insulation and protection from predators.
3. Altered Movement Patterns
   Snow can limit mobility for some animals, restricting their access to familiar territories. As a result, they may venture into residential areas in search of resources, increasing the likelihood of interactions with humans.
4. Water Scarcity
   While snow provides moisture, accessing drinkable water can be challenging for wildlife. Melting snow near homes or outdoor water sources may attract thirsty animals.

The Importance of Winter Exclusion

Winter exclusion involves sealing your home to prevent wildlife from entering, ensuring both your safety and that of the animals. Here’s why it matters:

1. Preventing Property Damage
   Wildlife can cause significant damage by chewing wires, tearing insulation, or contaminating spaces with droppings. Proactive exclusion measures minimize these risks.
2. Protecting Animal Welfare
   Once inside, wildlife can become trapped, stressed, or injured. Exclusion helps keep animals in their natural environment, reducing unnecessary harm.
3. Reducing Health Risks
   Many animals carry parasites or diseases transmissible to humans. Sealing entry points minimizes the chance of exposure.

Steps to Exclude Wildlife During Winter

1. Inspect Your Home
   Look for gaps, cracks, or holes in your roof, foundation, and walls. Pay attention to vents, chimneys, and eaves, which are common entry points for animals.
2. Seal Entry Points
   Use steel mesh, caulk, or weatherproof materials to block openings. Ensure ventilation is still functional while keeping animals out.
3. Trim Vegetation
   Overhanging branches provide easy access to roofs. Trim trees and shrubs near your home to reduce entry opportunities.
4. Secure Food Sources
   Store garbage in sealed bins, clean up fallen fruits, and remove food from outdoor areas.
5. Install Barriers
   Use chimney caps and vent covers to prevent access while maintaining airflow.

When to Call Professionals

If you suspect wildlife has already entered your home, professional wildlife control services can ensure safe and humane removal. Experts can also assess your property for vulnerabilities and implement exclusion strategies tailored to your needs.

Supporting Wildlife During Winter

While keeping animals out of your home is essential, you can still support wildlife during the winter months:

• Provide bird feeders with appropriate seeds.
• Create brush piles or small shelters in your yard for animals to use as temporary refuge.
• Avoid using harmful chemicals like de-icers that can poison wildlife.

Snow significantly impacts wildlife behavior, driving animals closer to human habitats in search of warmth and resources. Implementing winter exclusion measures protects your home while ensuring wildlife remains safe in their natural environments. Proactive steps and professional guidance can prevent conflicts and foster a harmonious coexistence during the colder months.

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.