Homeowner Tips to Keep the Critters (and Us) Away

You know, as a company, we LOVE coming out and ridding you of your nuisance critters, big and small. But sadly, as a homeowner, I’m sure you’d much rather never see us.

Here are some helpful hints to keep the AWC team out of your dooryard (New England saying… yup, it’s a thing!).

Homeowner Tip #1: Bird Feeders

We all love seeing our magenta-footed, purple-bellied, bent-nosed finch swing through in the morning for some breakfast crunchies. But truth is, he’s spilling more on the ground than he’s eating.

If you insist on keeping that little bird buffet within 30 feet of the house, you’re going to have more critters enjoying the feast. Mice and rats. Yes… RATS.

They LOVE all that seed hitting the ground and will spend the entire summer stuffing it into every crevice of your home. They’re preparing for winter and tough times (like when you forget to refill the feeder).

Unless you want to find a cozy little nest in your waders, keep feeders at least thirty feet from your home. This allows you to enjoy your pickle-nosed flutter swallow without placing a direct food source at your foundation.

If rodents have already made themselves at home, our rodent removal services can help resolve the issue.

Homeowner Tip #2: Window Screens & A/C Units

Every year from late July into the fall months, we brace ourselves. Young bats have been born and are doing typical juvenile stuff—like ending up in places they don’t belong.

For example… your bedroom.

If you didn’t take the time to seal the gaps around that window A/C unit you just installed, you may be inviting them in. Bats need next to nothing for an opening, so tape off all gaps properly.

Also check above the A/C unit. Is there a gap between the window panes? Stuff foam or even a towel in there if needed. Trust us—you’ll thank us later.

CHECK YOUR WINDOW SCREENS. Just because you stored them for the winter doesn’t mean they survived it. Rodents love chewing on screens for sport. Before reinstalling them, inspect for tears, gaps, or improper fit.

Nothing says “mood killer” like a bat chasing you under the covers.

If you’re already dealing with bats in your home, our professional bat removal services are here to help. We also offer preventative wildlife services to seal up access points before problems start.

Stay tuned for more blogs with tips on how to protect your home from unwanted guests. We know you love our team—but you’d probably rather keep us out of your home and your wallet!

For videos, on-the-fly tips, and even some bloopers… follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Talk soon!

If you have questions or would like a free inspection, contact us anytime.