Massachusetts is the third most densely populated U.S. state, and also home to an impressive variety of animals. Usually wild animals don’t interact with humans, but sometimes they can cause problems.
Start by following these general tips: Do not feed wildlife, keep garbage and compost in a secure container, don’t feed pets outside, remove bird feeders, and close off crawl spaces under porches, decks, and sheds.
Rodent- or bat-proofing buildings by sealing cracks and holes will prevent these animals from gaining access to suitable habitats where they are not welcome. Storing seed and pet food in tightly closed containers, controlling weeds and garden debris around homes and buildings, and storing firewood and building supplies on racks or pallets above ground level are also practices that can limit or remove the animals’ sources of food, water or shelter.