During the late winter and early spring months, there are a few wildlife problems that you may need to look out for within your home and garden:

Cluster Flies may become visible at this time of year and can cause problems in late autumn and early winter, usually during October and March. Often found in large numbers in upper rooms or loft spaces, these insects ‘cluster’ around windows or undisturbed warm areas. Their habit is to gather in buildings during the autumn as they get ready to hibernate for the winter and re-emerge in spring.

Grey Squirrels can be destructive creatures; capable of chewing through plastic and metal including bird feeders, pipes and agricultural equipment. They also enter roof spaces, lofts and buildings during colder weather as they search for food and nesting materials. The resulting damage can be expensive and if electrical wiring is affected, can also present a fire risk.

Rats seek harbour in houses and gardens at this time of year, especially during spells of cold and wet weather. They are persistent animals and once they gain access to your property, can spread bacteria, disease and cause a lot of damage by chewing plastic, wiring and metals. They are also difficult to catch because they are mainly active at night – it’s possible that you may never actually see them (although they will leave droppings!)

Moles are often active again at this time of year, as they recover from a very dry summer. You may notice molehills on your lawn or field, which they create when digging extensive tunnel systems in their search for new territory. When there is a wet winter, mole populations increase as their food source becomes more readily available (they are insectivores).

If you would like any advice on dealing with rodents, mammals or insects on your property or business premises, please get in touch with me on 07876 14 11 53 or visit www.ladymolecatcher.co.uk