Pests and Wildlife

Insects and wildlife are a natural part of Colorado's environment. While no home can be built completely pest or wildlife proof, understanding prevention strategies and knowing when to call professionals will help you manage these challenges effectively.

Warranty Note

Pest and wildlife issues are excluded from warranty coverage. Prevention and treatment are homeowner responsibilities.

Common Pests and Wildlife

Insects

• Ants - Often enter seeking food or water
• Spiders - Common in garages and basements
• Wasps and bees - May build nests under eaves or in landscaping
• Other insects - Flies, moths, beetles

Wildlife

• Mice and rodents - Seek shelter especially in cold months
• Squirrels - May attempt to nest in attics or soffits
• Woodpeckers - Can damage wood siding and trim
• Snakes - Usually harmless, seeking shelter or prey

Prevention Tips

Area	Prevention Steps
Kitchen	Store food in sealed containers; clean up crumbs promptly
Exterior	Trim vegetation away from home; seal visible gaps
Garage	Keep doors closed; store pet food in sealed containers
Yard	Remove standing water; keep garbage sealed
Foundation	Address moisture issues; keep mulch away from siding

Routine Prevention

Interior Prevention

• Store food (including pet food) in sealed containers
• Clean up crumbs and spills promptly
• Don't leave dirty dishes out overnight
• Empty garbage regularly
• Fix dripping faucets (water sources attract pests)
• Seal gaps around pipes and utility entries where accessible

Exterior Prevention

• Keep vegetation trimmed away from the home
• Remove standing water sources
• Store firewood away from the house
• Keep garbage in sealed containers
• Clear debris from around foundation
• Ensure downspouts direct water away from home

Garage and Storage Areas

• Keep garage doors closed when not in use
• Store items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard
• Don't store pet food in garage unless in sealed containers
• Remove clutter that provides hiding places
• Check for entry points around doors and windows

Troubleshooting

Seeing Ants Inside?

1. Identify entry point - Follow ant trail to find where they're entering
2. Clean the area - Remove food sources and clean surfaces
3. Seal entry - Caulk gaps where practical
4. Consider treatment - Ant baits or professional service

Hearing Noises in Walls or Attic?

1. Determine timing - Dawn/dusk activity often indicates wildlife
2. Check exterior - Look for entry points (gaps, damaged soffits)
3. Don't trap inside - Ensure animals can exit before sealing
4. Call professionals - For wildlife in walls or attic

Woodpecker Damage?

1. Inspect damage - May indicate insect infestation in wood
2. Address underlying issue - Treat for insects if present
3. Deter woodpeckers - Visual deterrents, reflective tape
4. Repair damage - Fill holes, repaint

What to Avoid

warning

• Don't ignore early signs - Small problems become large infestations
• Don't seal animals inside - Ensure wildlife can exit before sealing entry points
• Don't use outdoor pesticides indoors - Use products as labeled
• Don't disturb wasp/bee nests - Call professionals for removal

Professional Resources

When prevention isn't enough, contact appropriate professionals:

• Pest control companies - For insect infestations
• Wildlife removal services - For animals in or around home
• County extension service - For identification and advice
• Animal control - For aggressive or injured wildlife

Related Topics

• Ventilation - Keeping vents screened
• Landscaping - Yard maintenance
• Roof - Preventing roof entry points

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Warranty Coverage: Pest and wildlife issues are excluded from warranty. See Pests and Wildlife Standards for details.