Animal Scratching Under House: Causes And Solutions
Are you tired of hearing strange noises coming from under your house, only to discover that animals have taken up residence there? Animal scratching under the house can be a frustrating and worrying issue for many homeowners. Not only can it be noisy, but it can also lead to property damage and pose health risks. In this article, we'll delve into the causes of animal scratching under the house and provide practical solutions to help you address the problem.
Causes of Animal Scratching Under the House
Before we dive into the solutions, it's essential to understand why animals are scratching under your house. Here are some common causes:
Denning and Nesting
Many animals, such as raccoons, opossums, and squirrels, seek sheltered spots to den and nest. Under the house provides a cozy and protected space for them to raise their young, hide from predators, and escape harsh weather conditions.
Food Attraction
Food sources, such as pet food, bird seed, and compost piles, can attract animals to your yard and under your house. These food sources can encourage animals to explore and scratch under the house.
Shelter and Protection
Under the house offers a warm and sheltered spot for animals to escape from extreme temperatures, wind, and rain. This can be especially appealing to animals during the winter months or in areas with harsh weather conditions.
Instinctual Behavior
Some animals, like rodents and rabbits, have an instinctual behavior to dig and burrow. This natural behavior can lead them to scratch under the house, even if there's no apparent food or shelter attraction.
Solutions to Animal Scratching Under the House
Now that we've explored the causes, let's discuss some practical solutions to help you address the issue:
Seal All Entry Points
One of the most effective ways to prevent animals from scratching under the house is to seal all entry points. This includes:
- Vents and chimneys
- Gaps around pipes and utilities
- Cracks in the foundation
- Loose or missing siding
Use hardware cloth, expanding foam, or caulk to seal these gaps and prevent animals from entering.
Remove Food Attractants
Remove any food sources that may be attracting animals to your yard and under your house. This includes:
- Pet food
- Bird seed
- Compost piles
- Food debris
Regularly clean up any food debris, and consider using animal-proof containers for pet food and bird seed.
Install a Barrier
Installing a barrier around the perimeter of your house can help prevent animals from scratching under the house. This can be:
- Hardware cloth
- Chicken wire
- Plastic sheeting
Bury the barrier 12 inches deep to prevent animals from burrowing underneath.
Use Repellents
Use repellents to deter animals from scratching under the house. This can include:
- Predator urine (e.g., coyote or fox)
- Hot pepper spray
- Ultrasonic repellent devices
Apply repellents around the perimeter of your house and in areas where animals are scratching.
Call a Wildlife Professional
If the problem persists, consider calling a wildlife professional to humanely remove the animals and seal entry points.
Gallery of Animal Scratching Under House
Frequently Asked Questions
What animals are most likely to scratch under my house?
+Raccoons, opossums, squirrels, and rodents are common animals that scratch under houses.
How do I know if animals are scratching under my house?
+Listen for strange noises, such as scratching, chewing, or scurrying sounds. You may also notice animal droppings, paw prints, or gnaw marks on the foundation or walls.
Can I use poison baits to deter animals from scratching under my house?
+No, using poison baits is not recommended, as they can harm pets, children, and other non-target animals. Instead, use humane repellents and exclusion methods to deter animals.
By understanding the causes of animal scratching under the house and implementing the solutions outlined above, you can effectively address the problem and prevent future occurrences. Remember to always follow local regulations and safety guidelines when dealing with wildlife. If you're unsure about how to handle the situation, consider consulting a wildlife professional for assistance.