Keeping Critters Out of Your Home in Fair Oaks | Pest Pros Pest Solutions

Rodents, Possums, Raccoons & Skunks — What You Can Do and When to Call a Pro

Fair Oaks is known for its mature trees, established neighborhoods, and natural beauty. Unfortunately, those same features also make the area especially attractive to critters like rodents, possums, raccoons, and skunks.

These animals are smart, persistent, and surprisingly good at finding their way into attics, crawlspaces, garages, and under decks. Many infestations start quietly and go unnoticed until damage, odors, or noises become impossible to ignore.

Here’s what Fair Oaks homeowners can do to prevent critters from getting inside—and how to know when it’s time to call a professional.

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Why Fair Oaks Homes Attract Critters

Homes in Fair Oaks often have:

• Mature trees close to roofs and fences

• Older construction with aging vents and gaps

• Crawlspaces and raised foundations

• Abundant food and water sources

To critters, these homes offer shelter, warmth, and safety—especially during cooler nights and breeding seasons.

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Common Critters We See in Fair Oaks

Rodents (Rats & Mice)

Rodents squeeze through incredibly small openings and often nest in attics and walls. They can:

• Chew wiring and create fire hazards

• Damage insulation and ductwork

• Spread bacteria through droppings and urine

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Possums

Possums are drawn to crawlspaces, sheds, and decks. While generally non-aggressive, they:

• Tear insulation and vapor barriers

• Leave droppings and odors

• Attract other pests by scavenging food sources

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Raccoons

Raccoons are strong, intelligent, and destructive. In Fair Oaks, we often find them:

• Forcing entry into attics

• Tearing open vents or rooflines

• Creating large nesting areas

Once inside, they can cause extensive structural damage very quickly.

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Skunks

Skunks commonly burrow under homes, porches, and decks. Beyond the obvious odor risk, they:

• Dig and damage foundations

• Create entry points for other animals

• Can spray when startled or threatened

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What You Can Do to Prevent Critters from Getting Inside

There are proactive steps homeowners can take to reduce risk:

1. Trim Trees and Vegetation

Tree branches touching the roof act like bridges for rodents and raccoons.

Recommendation:

Trim branches back at least 3–5 feet from rooflines and structures.

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2. Secure Crawlspaces and Foundations

Critters love crawlspaces.

Check for:

• Damaged or missing vents

• Gaps along the foundation

• Loose lattice or access panels

Temporary fixes often fail—durable materials matter.

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3. Eliminate Food Sources

Outdoor food attracts wildlife.

Be sure to:

• Secure trash cans

• Store pet food in sealed containers

• Clean up fallen fruit and bird seed

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4. Inspect Rooflines and Vents

Many larger critters enter from above.

Look for:

• Bent or torn vents

• Loose shingles

• Gaps under eaves

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Signs Critters Are Already Inside

If you notice any of the following, the issue is likely beyond DIY prevention:

• Scratching, thumping, or heavy movement at night

• Strong odors (especially musty or skunk-related smells)

• Droppings in attics, crawlspaces, or garages

• Torn insulation or visible nesting material

• Repeat activity even after sealing openings

Sealing entry points without removing the animals first can trap them inside and make the situation worse.

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When It’s Time to Call a Professional

Professional critter control is the right move when:

• Animals are already inside the structure

• Entry points are high, hidden, or difficult to access

• Damage has occurred

• Activity keeps returning despite prevention efforts

A professional solution focuses on removal, exclusion, and prevention—not just chasing animals out.

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A Smarter Approach for Fair Oaks Homes

Effective critter control in Fair Oaks includes:

• Full exterior and structural inspection

• Identifying all active and potential entry points

• Humane removal when necessary

• Professional-grade exclusion to prevent re-entry

• Ongoing monitoring and protection

This is especially important for older homes, where vulnerabilities naturally develop over time.

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Schedule a Fair Oaks Home Protection Inspection

If you’re in Fair Oaks and dealing with rodents, possums, raccoons, or skunks—or want to prevent them before they become a problem—Pest Pros Pest Solutions is here to help.

📞 Schedule your Fair Oaks home protection inspection today and let our team create a customized plan to protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.

Because in Fair Oaks, keeping critters out starts with doing it right the first time.