Critter Tips & Tricks

Although we do not provide animal control services in Syracuse for chipmunks, skunks or anything bigger than typical house rodents, check out our recommendations below to protect your home from wildlife.

• Animals frequently gain entry under the eaves of buildings.
• Look for smudge marks on corners of buildings where animals may have climbed.
• Keep trees next to house trimmed with no limbs that overhang roofs.
• Animals look for food and shelter. Reducing the amount of available food and shelter will make the area less attractive to animals.
• Don’t leave trash out all night. Animals that are attracted to trash are mostly nocturnal.
• Keep the area under bird feeders clean, and squirrel-proof the feeders.
• Feed pets indoors or bring the food bowls inside at night and clean up any food spills.
• Rake up and remove fruit or nuts that fall from trees that are near buildings.
• Keep a clean border around buildings. Mow grass and remove brush or debris piles.
• Install chimney covers to prevent raccoons, bats, squirrels, and birds from going down chimney flue.
• Cover dryer vents with a bird-proof vent cover.
• Squirrel-proof with a bird-proof vent cover.
• Close garage doors at night.
• Install window well covers.
• Treat lawns to reduce grub population. Grubs are a favorite food of skunks.
• Use steel wool in the cracks in the foundation to keep mice out of your basement

Protect Your Syracuse Home from Pests and Wildlife

Living in Syracuse, you may encounter a variety of pests and wildlife that can disrupt your peace of mind. With the nearby Onondaga Lake and lush parks, critters like raccoons, squirrels, and even the occasional skunk can find their way into your yard and home. The City of Syracuse offers resources through, which provides information on pest control and wildlife management. While we do not offer animal control services for larger wildlife, we understand the unique challenges that Syracuse residents face when it comes to pest removal.

Local homeowners often struggle with keeping their properties pest-free, especially during the warmer months when animals are more active. The presence of food sources, such as open trash cans or pet food left outside, can attract unwanted visitors. Also, the dense foliage in neighborhoods like Armory Square and the Near West Side can provide ample hiding spots for critters. To combat these issues, it’s essential to take proactive measures to secure your home.

By following our tips, you can create an environment that is less inviting to pests. Regularly maintaining your yard, such as trimming trees and cleaning up fallen fruit, can significantly reduce the likelihood of critters making your home their own. Moreover, utilizing resources from local government entities can help you stay informed about best practices for pest removal and wildlife management in the Syracuse area.