May 30, 2023

Wildlife In Residential California: A Guide To Common Species

Common Wildlife Found in California

Here are some of the most frequently encountered animals in California:

Raccoons

Raccoons are notorious for their adaptability and varied diet. They consume fruit, berries, eggs, poultry, vegetables, fish, insects, rodents, carrion, pet food, and, of course—garbage. In urban settings, raccoons make their dens in hollow trees, drain pipes, under decks, in brush piles, and even inside attics.

Raccoons are known carriers of:

Additionally, they often carry fleas, ticks, lice, and mites, which can transmit diseases. To reduce the risk of raccoon infestations, keep tight lids on trash cans and eliminate potential entry points into your attic.

Opossums

Opossums are the only marsupials in North America. As omnivores, they eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, meat, eggs, insects, carrion, pet food, and garbage. They thrive in both woodlands and urban environments, making their homes in attics, garages, chimneys, woodpiles, chicken coops, and under houses or decks.

While opossums are generally non-aggressive, they can become a problem if they settle inside homes, causing foul odors and structural damage by chewing insulation and electrical wires. Additionally, they may attack curious pets or expose them to diseases.

Skunks

Skunks are nocturnal animals that feed on insects, small rodents, carrion, poultry, eggs, nestling birds, fruit, pet food, and garbage. They make dens in various places, such as woodpiles, burrows, culverts, and underneath houses, decks, and sheds.

While skunks are shy and avoid humans, their strong-smelling spray becomes an issue when they reside near homes. Frequent spraying can be a nuisance, and pets that get too close may get sprayed. If skunks become a problem on your property, it’s best to hire a professional for safe removal.

Racoon in trash

What Happens to Wildlife During California Wildfires?

Wildfires in California have become more frequent and destructive in recent years, causing billions of dollars in damage. However, humans aren’t the only ones who lose their homes—wildlife is also severely impacted.

While many animals flee during wildfires, some species, such as reptiles and amphibians, seek shelter in burrows or under rocks. Unfortunately, some animals are unable to escape due to man-made barriers like walls and fences.

After a fire, food sources are destroyed, and water supplies become contaminated, forcing displaced animals to migrate. When large numbers of animals move into new areas, it can disrupt ecosystems, leading to territorial conflicts and competition for limited resources.

How to Prevent Wildlife From Entering Your Backyard

As California’s population grows and development encroaches on wildlife habitats, human-animal encounters will inevitably increase. If you live in an area with high wildlife activity and want to keep animals like raccoons and opossums away from your property, here are some effective prevention tips:

Call the Wildlife Control Experts in Redding

Observing California’s wildlife from a distance can be a wonderful experience, but when animals venture too close, they can pose risks to both people and themselves. If you’re dealing with unwanted wildlife on your Redding property, contact the experts at Big Time Pest Control. Our wildlife control services include safe and humane trapping, removal, and preventative measures to keep wild animals from returning. Call us today to protect your home and property!

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