Wildlife Inspection of Home & Property

### Conducting a Comprehensive Wildlife Inspection

When conducting a wildlife inspection, it's crucial to be systematic and thorough in order to effectively ascertain the presence, location, and entry points of any animals. Here’s how to carry out the inspection, focusing on signs of animal activity and potential entry points.

#### 1. **Initial Observations**

- **Visual and Olfactory Clues:** Begin by taking note of any signs of animal activity that you can see, hear, or smell. Listen for sounds like scratching, scurrying, or vocalizations that might indicate animal presence.

- **Assess Smells:** Pay attention to any unusual odors, which could indicate the presence of animals or waste. A strong, musky smell may suggest a larger animal like a raccoon or opossum, while a more pungent odor might indicate rodent presence.

#### 2. **Identifying Signs of Animal Activity Inside the Home**

- **Nests and Dens:** Look in attics, basements, and crawl spaces for nests made of leaves, grass, or other materials. Dens may be found in secluded areas.

- **Feces:** Identify droppings, which can vary in size and shape depending on the animal. Take note of their location to help determine the species.

- **Animal Tracks:** Examine dusty or muddy areas for tracks. You can use a wildlife identification guide to help identify the species based on track shape and size.

- **Damage:** Check for signs of gnawing on wood, wires, or insulation. This is particularly common with rodents.

#### 3. **Exterior Inspection for Entry Points**

- **Foundation and Walls:** Inspect the foundation and walls for cracks, holes, or gaps that could serve as entry points. Pay close attention to areas around vents, pipes, and utility lines.

- **Roof and Eaves:** Look for gaps in the roof, damaged shingles, or spaces at the eaves where animals could enter. Squirrels often use trees as a launching point to access roofs.

- **Vents and Chimneys:** Ensure that all ventilation systems are secured and that chimneys have caps to prevent animals from entering.

- **Windows and Doors:** Check for gaps around doors and windows, including damaged screens or weather stripping that could allow entry.

- **Yard Inspection:** Look for signs of animal activity in the yard itself, including burrows, tracks, or digging marks.

#### 4. **Evidence of Animal Damage**

- **Tracks and Fur:** Document any tracks found near potential entry points