The promise of warmer weather, flowers and green grass aren't the only things that come with spring. An increase in raccoon, possum, pigeon and rodent nuisances is something that many homeowners dread as the summer months near.
"In Chicago, the spring is really when it really hits because a lot of the birds return from warmer climates," Joe Seid said. Seid is the owner of Bird-X Inc. a Chicago company that specializes in bird control.
Unwanted animal pests can destroy plants, can scatter garbage and can leave an unsightly fecal mess.
There is no exceptionally effective deterrent because animals can adjust, according to Steve Pincuspy, a program associate at the Safer Pest Control Project.
"Be aware of your home and what animals you have around," said Tom Tiddens, director of plant health care at the Chicago Botanic Garden. He suggests spraying repellents early.
"Try to do it before they even get a taste," Tiddens said.
Seid said that with certain products an animal’s behavior can be modified so it is not a constant annoyance.