As spring arrives, wildlife becomes more active, seeking shelter, food, and safe places to raise their young.

While raccoons, squirrels, and skunks might seem harmless, they can cause significant damage to your property, raid trash cans, dig up gardens, and even carry diseases. The best way to handle nuisance wildlife is through prevention. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to keep these animals from nesting in your yard.

Why Do Raccoons, Squirrels, and Skunks Nest in Yards?

Wildlife is drawn to human spaces for three main reasons:

• Food sources – Pet food, garbage, bird feeders, and gardens attract animals looking for an easy meal.
• Shelter – Animals seek safe, warm places like attics, crawl spaces, sheds, and under porches.
• Breeding sites – Spring is mating season, and mother animals look for secure nesting areas to raise their young.

How to Prevent Raccoons, Squirrels, and Skunks from Nesting in Your Yard

1. Secure Trash and Food Sources

One of the biggest wildlife attractions is food. To prevent unwanted visitors:

• Use heavy-duty trash cans with locking lids.
• Store trash bins inside a garage or shed when possible.
• Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outside overnight.
• Clean up fallen fruit from trees and food scraps from outdoor eating areas.

2. Seal Entry Points Around Your Home

Raccoons and squirrels often find their way into attics and crawl spaces, while skunks burrow under decks and sheds. To keep them out:

• Inspect your home for holes, cracks, or loose vents and seal them with heavy-duty materials.
• Install chimney caps and secure attic vents.
• Close off crawl spaces, porches, and decks with wire mesh or lattice.

3. Remove Hiding and Nesting Spots

Wildlife loves dense vegetation and cluttered yards. Reduce nesting opportunities by:

• Keeping grass trimmed and bushes well-maintained.
• Storing firewood at least 20 feet away from your home.
• Clearing brush piles, yard debris, and unused equipment.

4. Use Natural Deterrents

Wildlife dislikes strong scents and certain barriers. Try these humane deterrents:

• For raccoons: Ammonia-soaked rags or motion-activated lights and sprinklers.
• For squirrels: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or garlic powder near potential nesting spots.
• For skunks: Citrus peels, coffee grounds, or predator urine products (available at garden stores).

5. Install Motion-Activated Devices

Many animals avoid areas with sudden movement or noise. Consider:

• Motion-activated lights to scare nocturnal animals like raccoons and skunks.
• Ultrasonic repellents are designed to deter wildlife without harming pets.
• Wind chimes or aluminum foil strips in trees to discourage squirrels.

6. Keep Your Yard Fenced and Gated

A sturdy fence can prevent wildlife from entering your yard. Use:

• Buried fencing: Skunks dig, so extend fencing at least 12 inches underground.
• Electric fencing: Effective against raccoons and larger wildlife.
• Squirrel guards: Metal barriers on trees and bird feeders.

7. Know When to Call a Professional

If wildlife has already made a home on your property, avoid handling the situation yourself. Raccoons and skunks can be aggressive, and disturbing a mother animal may lead to legal and ethical concerns. Contact a licensed wildlife removal service to ensure safe and humane relocation.

Preventing raccoons, squirrels, and skunks from nesting in your yard requires proactive steps. By securing food sources, sealing entry points, and using humane deterrents, you can keep your property wildlife-free.

If you’re experiencing unwanted pests in your home or business, you want effective service as soon as possible to ensure the problem doesn’t become even worse. The professionals at Complete Pest Solutions are your top choice for timely, thorough pest control services and wildlife removal in Akron. Contact us today for pest control help when you need it!