The Problem With Bird Feeders

There is nothing more serene than sitting in your backyard and enjoying a little slice of nature. Many people choose to boost their outdoor serenity by installing a bird feeder or two in their yards to encourage the colorful fliers to nest and feed on their property. While birdfeeders do encourage birds to come and feast, they can also encourage other creatures, like mice, squirrels, and others. Before the situation spirals out of control, requiring mice removal Milwaukee specialists, it is best to understand the problem with feeders, how to defend them, and how to protect your yard and property.

Bird Feeder Buffet

Birds are not the neatest eaters in the world. As they dig through the feed, they fling and push seeds to the ground around the feeder. If you do not clean up around the feeder every day, other animals will find the food and eat. Unfortunately, when creatures, like mice, find a food source, they like to find a nesting site nearby, which often means your house because it is warm and safe.

Mouse-Resistant Feeder

It is possible to create a mouse-resistant bird feeder. You want to use metal and rounded feeders that are harder for mice to climb. You also want to avoid using ground-level feeding stations. Opting for hanging feeders does provide some protection against mice. Beyond selecting the appropriate feeder, you also want to keep the grass trimmed short around the feeder base. Tall grass can provide a nesting site for the mice or other small rodents. You should also install bird feeders away from your house, about 30 feet away, to discourage nesting near the structure.

Wildlife-Proof Yard

Beyond protecting your bird feeder from rodents and other wildlife, consider taking steps to protect your yard. There are at least four ways to limit the amount of wildlife seeking food and shelter on your property.

1. Clean yard debris: While many homeowners choose to leave some yard waste over garden beds for compost, lawn clippings and other debris provide ample material for wildlife nests. It is crucial to keep leaves, clippings, and other materials away from your house structure to avoid animals nesting too close.
2. Keep food indoors: Many people like to feed their pets outside to avoid the smell of pet food indoors, but this is not the best decision. If pet food is left outside, it can attract wildlife, who will then try to find a nesting site close to the available food source. If you must feed your pets outside, clean up immediately after they finish eating. Also, store pet food in sealed containers inside your home or other structure.
3. Seal trash bins: Lidless trash bins are more affordable than other options, but they do not provide significant protection against animals. If you want the most security against wildlife, purchase garbage cans with tight-fitting lids. Also, when the trash is not out to the curb, keep it in the garage or shed, not outside.
4. Trim trees, bushes, and shrubs: Even a secure home can have vulnerable entry points for creatures, chimneys, roof vents, etc. To limit access to these vulnerable places you can trim your trees, bushes, and shrubs, any that touch or overhang your house. Also, install covers and seal access points. You should hire a professional to inspect your property, ensuring that no animals are currently living in your property.

Do you have bird feeders in your yard, or do you think you have a wildlife problem on your property? If so, contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control and schedule a property assessment. Our mice removal Milwaukee technicians will come to your house and inspect your property, alerting you to any potential concerns or troubles.