Decks provide the perfect place to relax during the evening hours, but pests may enjoy the deck as much as humans do. A variety of pests can live underneath the deck, using it for shelter and using the backyard as a way to find easy access to food and water. If there are any pests under the deck, calling in the pros is always the best course of action. Below are some of the different types of pests that might be under the deck and how to handle them.
Raccoons
Raccoons look like bandits, so plenty of people think they’re adorable. Yet, they can be a huge nuisance when they’re living under the deck, can cause serious amounts of damage to the deck, and can leave behind droppings that contain diseases. If raccoons are detected under the deck, it’s a good idea to seek help from Animal Control Specialists to remove them, as raccoons can be dangerous and can carry rabies. A professional will know how to trap and relocate the raccoon to prevent it from coming back.
Rabbits
Rabbits are little balls of fluff, so some people may not mind the rabbits living under the deck. However, eventually, they will become a problem. Rabbits will multiply quickly, having up to 10 babies in each litter. Plus, they can cause damage to the underside of the deck, leave droppings under the deck and in the yard, and will decimate any vegetables planted in the yard. If you have noticed any rabbits under the deck, there are a few techniques to evict them and keep them away.
Cats
Cats can be amazing pets, but if they’re feral and living under the deck, they may need to be removed. It is best to look into a trap and release program for feral cats, so they’ll be spayed or neutered and then released in an area they can live in. Once they are out from under the deck, it’s a good idea to seal the deck to keep more cats from moving in. It’s also a good idea to determine if there are any food sources that need to be removed to discourage more cats from making the deck home.
Skunks
Skunks are known for their horrible smell when they spray, so it’s no surprise that homeowners will want them removed from under the deck. Most skunks are harmless, but the smell can be more than you want to deal with. The best idea is to remove any food sources so they will end up moving out to somewhere they can find food easier. If they don’t decide to move out, it is a good idea to have a professional trap and release them.
Snakes
While it’s likely that the snake under the deck isn’t venomous, it’s possible that it is. Even if it isn’t, snake bites can still be harmful, so you’ll likely want to remove it. To start, get rid of any potential food sources for the snake, if possible. Then, it’s going to be necessary to trap and release the snake. Professional assistance is always advised when dealing with snakes, especially if you aren’t sure what kind of snake it is.
Are you worried about pests in the yard? Professional help is available to remove any pests that might decide to call your deck home. If you have seen any pests or signs of pests under your deck, call a professional now to make sure the pests are removed quickly and to find out how to stop them from coming back.
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