Garages are often overlooked when it comes to wildlife prevention, yet they provide easy access to food, shelter, and safety for animals like raccoons, squirrels, bats, and even opossums. Protecting your garage from wildlife intrusions is essential to avoid property damage, health risks, and costly repairs. Here’s how Kansas City homeowners can keep their garages safe year round.
Identify Common Wildlife Visitors
Before preventing wildlife, it’s important to know which animals are likely to target your garage. In the Kansas City Metro area, common intruders include:
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Raccoons searching for food or shelter
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Squirrels nesting in stored items or insulation
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Bats seeking safe roosting spots
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Rodents like rats and mice attracted to stored boxes and pet food
Seal All Potential Entry Points
Wildlife can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Inspect your garage walls, rooflines, vents, and windows for gaps. Even a hole as small as a quarter can allow rodents or bats to enter. Seal cracks with durable materials such as steel mesh, caulk, or weatherproof foam.
Keep the Garage Clean and Organized
Clutter provides hiding spots and nesting opportunities for animals. Store boxes on shelves rather than on the floor, and keep rarely used items in sealed plastic containers. Clean up spills and remove any food sources, including pet food, birdseed, or compostable materials.
Install Proper Lighting and Motion Sensors
Wildlife generally avoids well-lit areas. Installing motion-activated lights around your garage can deter nocturnal intruders like raccoons and opossums.
Secure Trash and Recycling Bins
Many animals are drawn to trash as a food source. Ensure bins are tightly sealed and stored away from garage doors whenever possible. Consider using heavy-duty wildlife-proof containers for extra protection.
Maintain Exterior Landscaping
Trim tree branches that touch or hang over your garage roof, as they provide easy access for squirrels and raccoons. Keep shrubs and tall grass away from garage walls to reduce hiding spots for wildlife.
Professional Solutions for Persistent Wildlife Problems
Even with careful prevention, some wildlife problems require professional help. Humane wildlife removal and exclusion services ensure animals are safely relocated and cannot re-enter your garage, protecting your home from future intrusions.
Year Round Protection Keeps Your Garage Safe
Wildlife activity varies by season, but intrusions can happen at any time. Regular inspections, cleaning, and preventive measures help protect your garage throughout the year and safeguard your home from damage and health risks.
Contact Critter Control of Kansas City Metro today to schedule a professional wildlife inspection and keep your garage safe from intruders all year long.