Backyard Pests

Living in the northeast, it’s common to see squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and other wildlife perusing your yard. Your yard is host to so many pests and wildlife since there are so many conditions that create a perfect habitat for these critters. Albany's News Channel 10 reported the most common pests found in the backyard in the Northeast.

Deer ticks - These small ticks (about an eighth of an inch long), can carry Lyme disease. This year there is an increased risk for Lyme disease so take the necessary pre-cautions. Ticks feed on deer, and white tailed deer have become abundant in recent years, so tick populations are up too.

Groundhog - Groundhogs don't attack or bite, but they are prodigious diggers. Ignoring a groundhog can undermine the foundation under a deck or even a home. If you have improvements on your property, be on the lookout for them.

Garter snakes - Although not poisonous, garter snakes do bite. There are more than 120 snake species in the U.S., 17 of which are venomous. Instruct your children to stay away from all snakes.

Bobcats - These big cats can be found in most of North America, but their nocturnal habits make them hard to spot.

Gray Squirrels - Squirrels are typically considered pretty harmless, but they can carry rabies and be quite destructive in their own right. Squirrels can gnaw their way through shingles and other roofing materials to nest in attics and causing extensive damage.

Rats - Rats are found where there is shelter and a food source. Rats can make themselves at home in most places where people reside.

The following tips can help you make your property less attractive to potentially dangerous or destructive wildlife:

• Large mammals feed on smaller mammals, so it's always a good idea to keep all types of non-domesticated critters off your property, and that includes adorable squirrels and cute bunnies.
• The biggest draw to your property is usually the aroma wafting from your trash can. Keep a lid on your trash, and go the extra step of placing your food trash in a sealed plastic bag. Put your garbage out on trash pick-up day instead of letting it sit outdoors for days
• Remove dying vegetation and fallen tree branches from your property. Rotting vegetable material attracts insects, and insects attract critters.
• Trim shrubbery from around areas where your family and pets play. Snakes and small vermin can hide under shrubs and even in tall grass. The less extra foliage you have in the areas you frequent, the safer you'll be from bats, bugs, small rodents and larger mammals.
• Make a visual check of your backyard before exiting your home if you live in an area adjacent to a wildlife refuge or any other habitat where large mammals may be present.
• Never feed wild animals.
• Never approach a wild animal that appears to be "friendly." It may actually be sick or dying and could make you sick.
• Don't deal with wild animals yourself. If you see a snake or a wild mammal on your property, call your local animal control office for assistance.
• Keep outdoor pets inoculated against rabies and other infectious diseases

Wild animals can damage your property and be difficult to discourage or eradicate. These animals and pests can transmit potentially life threatening diseases, and many of them will attack when frightened or challenged. Thomas Pest Services, your pest control expert with experience in protecting your health, family, friends, children, pets and property. Thomas Pest Services, a local, family owned pest management company - contact us by phone 1-877-518-2847, email, twitter, or facebook for your free estimate and inspection today.