Raleigh, Cary and Durham homeowners work hard to make their homes attractive. But in some cases, they should do the exact opposite. When it comes to keeping rodents and insects out of the house, homeowners need to create a less welcoming environment. Here’s how:

1. Plug holes. Animals come into homes looking for food and shelter. Some rodents can squeeze through quarter-size openings in foundations, sidings, windows and roofs. Periodically inspect your home from top to bottom and plug any holes to keep potential invaders out.

2. Trim trees and other vegetation near the house. Squirrels can use trees as a launching pad to your roof. Make it more difficult for them to reach your house by keeping trees and other bushes cut back.

3. Keep bird feeders away from the house. It may be enjoyable to see birds eating from a feeder located on your deck. But that food encourages other animals to come in close for a snack as well. Keep your bird feeder at a distance to discourage unwanted visitors.

4. Keep pet food under wraps. If you’re in the habit of giving Fido free reign of his food bowl when he’s outside, you’re also making it easy for other animals to come eat as well. Instead, feed your pet and put away any uneaten food.

5. Rid your home of any rodents. If you already have a pest control problem, you could soon have a bigger one. Squirrels in the attic or mice in the basement attract other predatory animals. So if you currently have pests, it’s best to get them taken care of right away.

6. Keep your garbage tightly sealed. Animals love leftovers and if they can get into your garbage can, they will see that as an invitation to stick around. When you throw out your garbage, make sure it is stored in a secure container that keeps in odors, and can’t be chewed through or knocked over.

7. Change your outdoor lighting. Insects are attracted to ultraviolet lights, so consider replacing those with yellow or high pressure-sodium bulbs.

8. Remove outside clutter. Bees and other insects can create nests in wood piles, outdoor sofa cushions, plastic grill covers, and among a collection of outdoor toys. Straighten these areas to make them less attractive to critters.

9. Remove any old animal nests or homes. Animals don’t mind living in a pre-owned property—honey bees, for example will move into an unused honey comb. If you find traces from an old critter’s home, remove them to dissuade others from following suit.

10. Project Wildlife suggests additional detractors to keep animals away. Sprinkling chili powder in and around trash or in the garden acts as a natural irritant for mammals (but is safe for birds in birdfeed). Ammonia soaked rags or ammonia sprayed in outdoor areas create an offensive odor that discourages critters. Fans, radios or balloons provide movement or noise that can frighten critters away.

If you have a critter problem—or want to prevent one, contact Critter Control of the Triangle in Raleigh, Durham, Cary and Apex, NC at 1-800-Critter or 919-382-0651. We’ll help you decrease your home’s curb appeal to pests.