So, you’ve finally had that pesky squirrel, raccoon, or bird removed from your attic or chimney. Problem solved, right? Well, not quite. In San Antonio, it’s pretty common for wildlife and stray pets to find cozy places in homes especially when the weather gets too hot or too cold. But unless you take steps to stop them from coming back, there’s a good chance you’ll be calling for help again. Whether it’s your roof, attic, vents, or crawl space, animals love warm, dark, and quiet spots. This article will walk you through simple, practical ways to make sure they don’t return after removal. Because nothing’s more frustrating than hearing scratching noises again just weeks after you thought the issue was fixed. It’s time to protect your home and peace of mind with smart Pets And Bird Removing San Antonio strategies.
Start with a Full Inspection Because They Always Find a Way In
The first thing you need to do after removal is figure out how they got in. Most animals are clever, and birds in particular can squeeze through tiny gaps. Even something as small as a cracked vent cover, a broken shingle, or a gap under your eaves could be an open invitation. Hire a professional or do a detailed walk-around of your home. Look for droppings, nesting material, or scratch marks around vents, chimneys, attic openings, and even dryer exhausts. You can’t stop them from returning if you don’t know how they got in to begin with.
Block, Seal, and Screen: Your Three-Point Defense System
Once you know where the entry points are, it’s time to take action. Here’s how to create a strong defense:
| Prevention Method | What It Protects | Why It Works |
| Mesh or Metal Screens | Vents, chimneys, openings | Keeps animals out without blocking airflow |
| Sealant or Caulk | Cracks and gaps in siding | Stops small animals and insects from entering |
| Hardware Cloth | Attic vents, soffits | More durable than plastic screens, hard to chew through |
If you’ve ever dealt with birds in vents or squirrels in the attic, you already know they’ll chew through just about anything. That’s why cheap plastic covers or loosely placed mesh won’t cut it. Use galvanized metal or heavy-duty hardware cloth. And always secure it tightly. It’s also a good idea to install a chimney cap or bird guard if your fireplace is a common entry point. A small one-time investment can save you hundreds in repeat removals and repairs.
“If you remove the animal but not the opportunity, they’ll be back by next week.” That’s how one San Antonio wildlife expert put it and he’s right. The trick isn’t just getting them out, it’s taking away any reason they’d want to come back.
Think Like the Animal: Remove the Temptations
Believe it or not, sometimes you’re unintentionally attracting unwanted guests. Pets like stray cats or raccoons often come around because of food scraps or water left outside. Birds might return if they’ve previously nested in your attic and still smell traces of their old home. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Leaving pet food bowls outdoors overnight
- Storing trash in unsecured bins
- Not trimming tree branches that hang over your roof
- Skipping attic clean-up after removal (nest smells linger!)
San Antonio’s warmer climate makes homes extra inviting to animals looking for shelter. So keep your property tidy, your garbage sealed, and your pet food indoors—especially at night. These small changes make a huge difference.
Bird and wildlife exclusion
One service you might want to consider is bird and wildlife exclusion. This is a professional service that goes beyond basic removal. It includes sealing entry points, odor removal, and even attic clean-up. Some San Antonio companies offer warranties to make sure animals don’t come back. If you’re not the DIY type or want extra peace of mind, it might be worth the investment.
Safety and Cost: What You Should Expect
Let’s talk about what it costs to keep these animals out. Basic sealing and screening materials can cost as little as $50 if you DIY. But if you hire a pro for full home exclusion services, expect to pay between $200 to $800 depending on the size of your home and number of vulnerable spots. That may seem steep but compared to damage from nesting birds, chewed wires, or soaked insulation, it’s a smart investment. And don’t forget the safety angle. Wild animals often carry parasites or diseases. Leaving their droppings or nests behind can pose health risks, especially if disturbed. Proper clean-up, sealing, and prevention is just as much about safety as it is about cost.
FAQs About Keeping Birds and Pets Out After Removal in San Antonio
Q: Do animals really return to the same spot after removal?
Yes. Many birds and animals will return, especially if they previously nested there. They’re creatures of habit and follow scent trails.
Q: Can I use store-bought deterrents or sprays?
They might work short-term, but they’re not reliable long-term. Physical exclusion methods like screens and sealants are more effective.
Q: Is it legal to trap or remove birds on my own in San Antonio?
Not always. Some species are protected by state or federal laws. Always consult a licensed wildlife removal service before taking action.
Q: What if animals keep coming back even after I seal everything?
It may mean something was missed or improperly sealed. Get a second inspection and consider hiring a wildlife exclusion specialist.
Q: Can I prevent re-entry myself or should I call a pro?
If you’re confident with tools and know what to look for, you can try it yourself. But a professional will spot things you might miss and do a more thorough job.
Final Thoughts: A One-Time Fix Isn’t Enough
Removing a bird or stray animal from your home is only half the battle. Without proper prevention, sealing, and cleanup, you’re just setting yourself up for a repeat visit. The key is thinking long-term identifying how they got in, eliminating their attraction to your space, and fortifying your home against future break-ins. In San Antonio, where wildlife and weather create the perfect storm for animal intrusions, staying proactive is the smartest (and most cost-effective) move you can make. So after the animal is out, don’t just breathe a sigh of relief start working on keeping them out for good.
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