Owning a swimming pool is a dream come true for many homeowners in the US. Indeed, one of the first things many consider when admiring a new backyard is how likely they can fit a pool since pools offer a great opportunity for relaxation and fun. However, read on if you don’t want to wake up with raccoons in your new pool.
Swimming pools are as attractive to many animals as humans, though not for the same reasons. Where you might be attracted to the idea of getting in a few healthy laps in the pool, a raccoon, rat, or squirrel is drawn by an open, easily-accessible water source. The larger the body of water is, the likelier it becomes to attract other nuisance wildlife like Canada Geese, ducks, or other birds.
So what can you do to prevent wildlife from entering your pool?
Note: a wild animal in your pool is a risk to your health, as it exposes you to disease, but also at risk itself, since it may well drown in there. So be mindful of the animal’s welfare, also.
Cover up the pool when you’re not in
The easiest way to keep wildlife out of your swimming pool is to cover it when you’re not using it. Covering and uncovering may be quite a hassle, but it’s well worth it. Generally, wild animals won’t be likely to try and hit up your pool if someone’s nearby (or, obviously, in it), but they won’t be as shy once you’re back in the house.
For this, the easiest option is an automatic pool cover, which you can quickly draw back and forth to allow access to the pool only when needed.
Fence it up
A fence is an excellent way to prevent wild animals from entering the pool, though it’s only applicable against ground-bound animals, like raccoons or squirrels. Birds won’t be affected by a fence at all. Nevertheless, a fence may be helpful, depending on the type of wildlife you’re most likely to run into.
While a fence around the swimming pool is good, a fence around the entire backyard is better, as it creates a barrier against unwanted animals.
Try to limit food sources outside
Wild animals like a swimming pool are less likely to camp on your property if that’s the only thing you’re offering. If you see squirrel nest signs in the swimming pool or nearby, it could mean the animal’s also found a food source. They may find food left out for their pets, fallen fruit from trees, or an improperly sealed garbage can.
While no method is 100% wildlife-proof, limiting food sources outside can deter wildlife from setting up camp.
Get a dog as a natural predator
While it’s never a good idea to set your dog on wildlife or train it to attack, the mere presence of dogs can deter many wild animals from even coming near your yard. That’s because they understand that it’s unlikely they’d win between them and a big, scary dog.
That said, you should train your dog not to pursue wild animals, as this may expose it to disease or even a fatal altercation.
Use deterrence mechanisms
A solid way to limit the wildlife population on your property is to install a motion-activated deterrent device. Some of these devices emit light flashes, while others give off loud sounds to ward off nuisance wildlife. However, before installing any such device, consider the comfort of both yourself and your neighbors.
Get advice from a wildlife pro
Last but not least, ask a professional wildlife company for prevention advice. A wildlife pro will come and inspect your property, and they’ll be able to spot early warning signs of an infestation. On top of that, they’ll know what commonly attracts animals and what may put you at risk of an infestation.
While there is no way to guarantee a pest-free swimming pool, the above steps should significantly reduce those chances.