If you’re a Florida homeowner, you might think your deck or patio is just a space for weekend BBQs and relaxing evenings. But for many wild animals, it’s prime real estate—a warm, dark, and protected area to seek shelter, raise young animals, or avoid predators.
Whether it’s raccoons, skunks, or rodents, wildlife nesting under your deck can lead to significant property damage, attract insects, and even pose risks to pets and people. If you’re feeling unsure about how to manage these uninvited creatures, read on—we’ll break down how they get in, what keeps them there, and the most effective ways to get them out.
How Do Wild Animals Get Under Decks and Patios?
Florida’s warm, humid climate and dense vegetation make it a magnet for wild animals looking for a place to nest or hide. Decks, patios, and porches provide a structure with soil, shade, and space underneath—especially when there are gaps between deck boards, or no barrier around the perimeter.
Animals digging underneath to create a den or burrowing under patio blocks are common. Rodents, raccoons, opossums, and skunks are some of the usual suspects. They are often encouraged to move in by easy access and reliable food sources nearby.
- Gaps between patio blocks or wood
- Holes along fence lines
- Spaces in shrubs or overgrown grass
- Loose or rotted siding or framing
- Weak soil around the structure
What Attracts Wildlife to Your Deck?
It’s not just the shelter. Florida’s natural environment already supports a range of animals, but your backyard may unintentionally encourage animals to stay. Knowing what lures animals in can help you prevent your property from being attractive.
1. Food
Open trash cans, fallen fruit from trees, and even pet food left outside are like all-you-can-eat buffets for wildlife. Many animals have keen senses and will travel just to get a meal.
2. Water Sources
Birdbaths, fountains, and pet bowls may quench the thirst of more than just your family dog.
3. Lack of Human Activity
If you’re not using your yard often—especially during rainy or cooler seasons—it may seem abandoned to a passing critter.
Signs You Have Wildlife Living Under Your Deck
Some signs are subtle, others are not. If you suspect animals may be living under your structure, look (and listen) for the following:
- Scratching, rustling, or thumping sounds beneath the deck
- Scattered litter or nesting material
- Holes in the soil or visible digging underneath
- Animal droppings or tracks
- Strong odors—especially in the case of skunks
- Gnaw marks on wood or wires
- Pets acting agitated near the deck
If you notice these signs, don’t attempt to remove the animals by yourself. Instead, contact a professional wildlife removal company that can perform humane trapping and relocation.
The Risks of Letting Wildlife Stay
Letting small animals or even larger ones remain under your deck can lead to:
- Structural damage from burrowing and nesting
- Health risks from diseases like leptospirosis or rabies
- Fleas, ticks, and insects carried in by animals
- Predators following prey onto your property
- Safety issues for pets or children
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, nuisance wildlife calls have increased nearly 20% over the past five years. And in 2024, over 8,000 calls in Florida alone involved wildlife invading human spaces, most commonly under decks and patios.[1]
How to Evict Animals From Under Your Deck (Humanely)
You don’t need to panic—but you do need a plan. Here’s how to stop animals from turning your deck into their den:
1. Inspect the Area
Before taking action, make sure there are no young animals present. Removing a mother could result in orphaned babies dying underneath—creating bigger problems.
2. Create Disturbance
Wildlife dislikes disruption. Try playing talk radio or installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers. This can make the space feel less safe.
3. Use One-Way Doors
Install a one-way door at the entry point that allows animals to exit but not return.
4. Seal Entry Points
Once you’re sure all animals have left, seal all gaps and openings using:
- Wire mesh
- Hardware cloth
- Heavy-duty material that resists chewing
- Bury mesh at least 12 inches deep to stop future digging
5. Deter with Scent
Critters have sensitive noses. Natural deterrents like vinegar, predator urine, or ammonia-soaked rags can encourage them to leave.
How to Prevent Wildlife From Coming Back
Evicting them is only half the battle. To prevent animals from returning:
Secure Trash Cans
Use tight-fitting lids and store them in a shed if possible.
Remove Food Sources
Don’t leave pet food outside. Pick up fallen fruit and remove bird feeders at night.
Trim Back Shrubs and Weeds
Eliminate hiding spots near the perimeter of your deck or yard.
Maintain Your Structure
Repair cracks in the wood, seal gaps, and clear away litter.
Add a Physical Barrier
Install an underground barrier like hardware cloth or wire mesh to prevent burrowing.
When to Call a Wildlife Professional
If DIY efforts fail or the situation feels dangerous—especially with aggressive species like raccoons or venomous snakes—call a licensed wildlife removal expert. In Florida, wildlife specialists are trained to rid properties of animals humanely and in compliance with state regulations.
Avoid attempting to trap or relocate wildlife yourself. In many cases, it’s illegal without a permit and could make the problem worse.
Get Connected to Professional Wildlife Removal
It’s no surprise that Florida’s subtropical climate creates the perfect storm for wildlife encounters. While it’s possible to protect your home and prevent animals from moving in, it’s also important to remember that these creatures are just trying to survive.
By making a few strategic changes—sealing entry points, removing food, and installing a barrier—you can enjoy your deck or patio in peace, without turning it into a wildlife hotel.
If you’re feeling unsure about what’s under your deck, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the easier it will be to reclaim your space.
Contact Nuisance Wildlife Rangers for more information on how we can remove animals from under your decks and patios.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What time of year are animals most likely to shelter under decks in Florida?
While wildlife can seek shelter year-round in Florida’s mild climate, spring and early summer are peak seasons for nesting. During these months, young animals are born and mothers seek protected spaces—like under decks and patios—to raise them safely.
2. Can animals under my deck attract snakes or other predators?
Yes. The presence of small animals like rodents or birds can attract dangerous predators such as snakes or coyotes. Predators follow scent trails and sounds, so a populated space under your deck could turn into a mini food chain hub.
3. Is it safe to use repellents or deterrent sprays?
Some commercial repellents are safe when used properly, but always check labels for ingredients that may be harmful to pets, children, or plants. Natural deterrents like vinegar or citrus peels can be effective short-term solutions, but they often need frequent reapplication and are best used alongside physical exclusion methods.
4. Do I need a permit to remove wildlife from my property in Florida?
In many cases, yes—especially if you’re dealing with protected species or plan to trap and relocate animals. Florida law restricts how certain animals can be handled. Always consult a licensed wildlife removal professional or check with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for guidance.
5. Why do animals keep coming back even after I seal everything?
Even well-executed barriers can fail if nearby conditions still attract animals—such as unsecured garbage, pet food, or fallen fruit. Wildlife also leave behind scent trails and pheromones that signal to others the space was once habitable. Cleaning thoroughly and removing food sources is just as critical as sealing entry points.
6. Can wildlife under my deck affect my home’s foundation?
In extreme cases, yes. Persistent burrowing, digging underneath, and soil displacement can destabilize deck footings or cause uneven settling. While most critters won’t damage deep foundations, decks built on shallow supports are more vulnerable to long-term structural issues.
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