The start of a new year is usually reserved for gym memberships and financial resolutions, but homeowners in Western New York know there’s another priority that often goes overlooked until it’s too late: home protection. As we look ahead to 2026, the local wildlife populations in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse aren’t planning to slow down. Raccoons, squirrels, bats, and skunks are constantly adapting to urban and suburban environments, seeking warmth and shelter in the very places you call home.
Preparing your property against these uninvited guests requires more than just reacting to noises in the attic. Effective wildlife control is proactive, comprehensive, and best handled by professionals who understand the specific behaviors of local fauna. At Town and Country Pest Solutions, we believe that peace of mind comes from knowing your home is fortified against intruders—big or small. This guide will walk you through why wildlife intrusions happen, the risks they pose, and how our expert team can help you maintain a wildlife-free home throughout 2026.
Why Wildlife Wants In
It’s easy to think of wildlife invasions as random bad luck, but animals are driven by basic biological needs. Understanding why they are trying to enter your home is the first step in keeping them out.
The Search for Warmth
Western New York winters are notorious for their severity. As temperatures drop, warm-blooded mammals like mice, rats, and squirrels desperately seek heat sources. Your attic, basement, and wall voids offer a stable, heated environment that is far superior to a hollow tree or an underground burrow. Even in milder seasons, the shelter provided by a sturdy roof protects animals from predators and rain.
Nesting and Breeding
Spring signifies baby season for many local species. Raccoons, for instance, are known for tearing through shingles and soffits to find a safe, dark place to raise their kits. A mother raccoon is incredibly determined and strong; once she identifies your chimney or attic as a nursery, simple deterrents are rarely enough to stop her.
Easy Access to Food
Your home is often surrounded by an all-you-can-eat buffet. Bird feeders, unsecured garbage cans, pet food left on the porch, and compost piles are major attractants. Once an animal associates your property with an easy meal, they will naturally look for housing nearby to shorten their commute.
The Hidden Dangers of Wildlife Intrusions
Ignoring a scratching sound in the ceiling or a scurrying noise in the walls can lead to significant consequences. Wildlife infestations are not just a nuisance; they are a direct threat to your property and health.
Structural Damage
Animals are destructive houseguests. Rodents must gnaw constantly to keep their teeth filed down, which means they will chew through wood, drywall, and even electrical wiring. This creates a serious fire hazard. Larger animals like raccoons can rip off fascia boards, damage insulation, and destroy ventilation systems, leading to thousands of dollars in repairs.
Health Risks and Contamination
Wildlife carries diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets. Raccoons can carry rabies and roundworm; bats are vectors for histoplasmosis through their guano; and rodents spread Hantavirus and Salmonella. Furthermore, the accumulation of droppings and urine soaks into insulation and drywall, creating foul odors and potential respiratory issues for your family.
Our Approach: The Town and Country Difference
At Town and Country Pest Solutions, we don’t just set traps and hope for the best. Our approach to wildlife control is scientific, humane, and designed for long-term results. We serve the Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse areas with a strategy built on three pillars: Inspection, Removal, and Exclusion.
1. Comprehensive Inspection
Every successful wildlife intervention starts with a thorough inspection. We don’t just look at where you hear the noise; we examine the entire building envelope. Our technicians are trained to spot the subtle signs of entry, such as rub marks, droppings, tracks, and disturbed insulation. We identify the species, the entry points, and the extent of the damage.
2. Humane Removal
We prioritize humane and safe removal methods. Whether we are dealing with a skunk under the deck or a bat colony in the attic, we use species-specific techniques to remove the animals without causing unnecessary harm. This protects both the wildlife and your family.
3. Exclusion and Repair
Removing the animal is only half the battle. If the entry point remains open, another animal will simply take its place. This is where our exclusion services shine. We seal entry points using high-grade, animal-proof materials that can withstand gnawing and clawing. We also offer remediation services to clean up the mess left behind, ensuring your home is sanitary and safe.
Top Prevention Tips for Homeowners
While professional intervention is often necessary for established infestations, there are several steps homeowners can take to make their property less attractive to wildlife in 2026.
Fortify Your Roof and Foundation
Inspect your roof regularly for loose shingles, damaged vents, or rotting fascia boards. Install chimney caps to prevent raccoons and birds from nesting inside. At the ground level, check for gaps in the foundation and seal openings around utility pipes.
Manage Your Landscaping
Trim tree branches that hang over your roof. These act as bridges for squirrels and raccoons to access your upper levels. Keep shrubbery trimmed away from the house to eliminate hiding spots near the foundation.
Secure Your Trash
Invest in animal-proof garbage cans or keep your bins in a garage or shed until pickup day. If you compost, ensure the bin is secure and avoid adding meat or dairy products that attract carnivores.
Eliminate Water Sources
Standing water is a magnet for all types of pests. Ensure your gutters are clean and draining properly, and fix any leaky outdoor faucets.
Why Choose Town and Country Pest Solutions?
With over 1,150 Google reviews and an average 4.9-star rating, we have built a reputation for reliability and effectiveness across Western New York. We understand the local ecosystem and the specific challenges faced by homeowners in our region.
Our “Everything Package” offers comprehensive peace of mind, covering over 45 common pests and including free wildlife inspections. We offer a full season guarantee on our exclusion work because we stand behind our craftsmanship. When you hire us, you are hiring a team that treats your home with the same care and respect as our own.
Secure Your Home for the Future
As we approach 2026, don’t leave your home vulnerable to the whims of nature. A proactive stance on wildlife control protects your biggest investment and ensures the safety of your family. Whether you are in Rochester, Buffalo, or Syracuse, Town and Country Pest Solutions is ready to help you reclaim your space.
If you suspect you have unwanted guests or simply want to prevent them from moving in, contact us today. Let’s make 2026 a year where the only wildlife you see is through the window, exactly where it belongs.
