Common Nuisance Wildlife in Kent
Raccoons
Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable. They enter attics through roof edge gaps, damaged soffits, and uncapped chimney flues. Once inside, they tear insulation for nesting material and create serious odor problems from waste accumulation. Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is a genuine health concern - the King County Public Health department advises against handling raccoon droppings without protective equipment. Guardian locates the entry point, safely removes any animals, and seals the access before they return.
Opossums
Opossums are Washington’s only native marsupial. They are slow-moving and non-aggressive, but they denning in crawl spaces causes odor and can attract secondary pests. They are attracted to unsecured garbage, pet food left outdoors, and low deck spaces. Exclusion - blocking access rather than trapping - is the most effective long-term solution.
Squirrels
Gray squirrels nest in attic insulation and chew on electrical wiring. Wiring damage from squirrel activity is a documented fire risk. They enter through gaps at rooflines, around pipe penetrations, and through damaged fascia boards. Guardian seals entry points with metal flashing and hardware cloth that squirrels cannot chew through.
Starlings and Other Birds
European starlings nest in roof voids, dryer vents, and exhaust fan openings. Nesting materials block airflow and create fire hazards in dryer vents. Guardian removes nests and installs vent covers and bird exclusion screens appropriate to each opening type.
Washington State Wildlife Regulations
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife classifies certain species as protected, requiring permits for trapping or relocation. Some species - including most songbirds - are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Guardian operates within WDFW guidelines on every wildlife call. We advise you on what is legally possible before any work begins.
The Exclusion-First Approach
Trapping alone does not solve wildlife problems. Another animal will occupy the same entry point within weeks. Exclusion - physically sealing every gap an animal used to enter - is the permanent solution. Guardian’s wildlife exclusion process identifies all potential entry points around the roofline, foundation, and utility penetrations and seals them with materials appropriate to each location. This is the same principle behind our rodent exclusion service, which carries a lifetime warranty. See our rodent control services in Kent for details on that guarantee.
Health and Safety Considerations
Wildlife in a structure creates health risks beyond the animal itself. Bat guano and raccoon droppings harbor fungal and parasitic organisms. Rodent-like wildlife may carry fleas and mites that remain active after the host animal leaves. Guardian recommends sanitizing affected insulation and surfaces after removal - our technician will advise on the scope of cleanup needed during the initial inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if an animal is still in my attic?
Scratching sounds that are most active at dawn and dusk suggest a nocturnal animal like a raccoon or opossum. Sounds in the morning more likely indicate squirrels. Our technician can confirm the species and activity level from an exterior inspection.
Can I deal with nuisance wildlife myself?
For many species in Washington, handling or relocating wildlife without a permit is illegal. Even for non-protected species, improper removal can cause the animal to die inside a wall cavity. Professional exclusion is safer for the animal and avoids costly remediation.
What Our Customers Say
★★★★★
“Raccoon had found its way into our attic. Guardian removed it humanely, identified where it was getting in through a damaged soffit, and sealed the entry point. They also checked for secondary pests. Very professional handling of a stressful situation.”
★★★★★
“Squirrels were getting into the crawl space and chewing through insulation. Guardian excluded them, installed a one-way exit, and sealed the gap. No re-entry in three months. Quick and clean work.”
★★★★★
“Starlings were nesting in our eaves every spring. Guardian installed exclusion netting and treated the area for secondary insects the birds had brought in. First spring in four years without the noise and mess. Excellent work.”