How to Keep Unwanted Animals Away

Living with wildlife can be a rewarding experience, but it can also pose some challenges for homeowners. What should you do if you find wild animals in your yard? How can you handle this situation in a way that is respectful of the animals and your environment? Here are some practical tips to help you.

1. Use natural repellents

Some natural repellents can be effective in deterring wildlife. For example, the smell of garlic, cayenne pepper, or vinegar can be unpleasant to many animals and keep them away. Spread these ingredients around the areas you want to protect. Avoid using toxic chemicals whenever possible. Pesticides and herbicides can not only harm wildlife, but also contaminate the environment and drinking water.

2. Use sensory barriers

Wild animals are often sensitive to sensory stimuli such as sound, light and movement. You can use devices such as ultrasound or flashing lights to scare animals away and keep them from approaching your garden.

3. Install physical barriers

Fencing, trellises or netting can be very effective in preventing animals from accessing your garden. Make sure the barriers are high enough and buried deep enough to discourage digging animals.

4. Opt for repellent plants

Some plants have repellent properties that can help keep unwanted animals away. For example, lavender, peppermint, and geranium are known to deter insects and rodents. Incorporate these plants into your garden to discourage unwanted visitors.

5. Eliminate food and water sources

Wildlife is attracted to food and water sources. Keep your yard clean by removing food scraps and keeping trash cans tightly closed. Also, avoid leaving standing water in containers outside, as this can attract animals.

6. Brighten up dark areas

Many wildlife are nocturnal and prefer to move around in the dark. Lighting dark areas of your yard can deter them from venturing near your property. Use motion-sensor lights to automatically illuminate areas where animals may be hiding.

7. Avoid shelters

Skunks, for example, often seek out sheltered places to hide during the day. Eliminate potential shelters by sealing holes in walls, repairing cracks in foundations, and removing piles of wood or debris where they might hide.

8. Repeat strategies

Be patient and persistent in your efforts to keep wildlife away. Some methods may take time to become effective, and it may be necessary to try several strategies before you find the one that works best for you.

9. Keep pets indoors

If you have pets, be sure to keep them indoors at night. Skunks can be attracted to pet food and can come into conflict with your pets if they encounter each other. And we don’t want to get our pet sprayed by a skunk at all costs!

10. Call on professionals

If you are faced with a situation involving dangerous or legally protected animals, it is best to seek professional assistance to handle the situation. Your local wildlife control or animal services department can help you assess the problem and find safe, humane solutions to resolve the conflict.

By combining these tips with a wildlife-friendly approach, you can create a welcoming garden while discouraging unwanted animals from taking up residence in your outdoor space.

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