While certain times of year may be the most active for some animal species, there are others that can pose a problem no matter when they appear on your property. The following wildlife can be problematic all year long.

Rodents

Once they’ve found a reliable nesting and a food source, rats and mice can not only spread disease, but also cause a lot of damage to your property in all seasons. Their collapsible ribcages allow rodents to navigate the smallest holes, cracks, and gaps in crawl spaces and walls.

Both rats and mice are known to go into heat every four or five days. Both can have up to 18 pups per litter, as long as shelter, food, and water are readily available. The best way to prevent any rodent infestation is to check your home regularly for entry points and seal them.

Opossums

Found throughout the state of California, opossums are nocturnal and fairly large members of the marsupial family. When they invade human spaces, opossums typically prefer attics, brush piles, and garages to build their dens, but they will also build under homes and decks. They’re known to carry fleas, so this is a common concern for pet owners.

Because opossums have multiple sharp teeth, it’s recommended that they never be handled unless you are trained and experienced.

Coyotes

Coyotes can be a very real wildlife problem in every season because they are survivors. Coyote fur gets thicker starting in fall, and their appetites also increase at this time. Cooler temperatures can cause coyotes to become more brazen, seeking any prey they can find, including pets.

The fact that coyotes are transmitters of disease and travel in packs makes them a concern for ranch and homeowners in California. Frequent sightings should be followed by prompt removal.

Raccoons

Like opossums, raccoons are nocturnal, roaming year-round in search of food. A common sign of a raccoon invasion is garbage all over yards, roads, and driveways. Raccoons live in high places, which is why they’re often found in chimneys and attics.

Raccoon infestations can cause extensive damage, and raccoon feces contain roundworm, which is very dangerous for humans. Prevention methods include removing preferred food sources like bird feeders. Female raccoons give birth between April and June, so removal is best delayed until after this time to avoid abandonment of the kits.

Skunks

Skunks represent another of California’s wild animals that can become a serious problem should they encounter humans. Like their raccoon counterparts, a sure sign that skunks are around is trash strewn everywhere. You may also find holes in your lawn from nightly skunk grub hunting.

Skunks have been known to spread rabies, but they are more likely to unleash their noxious spray when mating or attacking.

California’s Wildlife Removal Specialist

Whether you have a skunk, coyote, opossum, rodent, or raccoon problem, Animal Capture Wildlife Control can help. We have over 20 years of experience in safe and humane pest control; visit us today for more information.