When Nature Moves In: Why Wildlife Targets Historic Homes

Historic homes are incredible. They’re full of character and are sometimes built even better than modern developments. However, they are also often targets for wildlife. Discover a few key reasons why wildlife is commonly drawn to historic properties.

Old Wood

Aged wood is significantly easier for squirrels and other rodents to chew through than newer building materials. Over time, wood naturally dries out, softens, and develops small cracks, making it far less resistant to persistent gnawing. Decorative trim and older structural elements are especially vulnerable, as their intricate details and joints provide natural entry points that rodents can exploit. Much of this damage occurs within walls, eaves, or attics and often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe.

Settling

Old buildings move and settle. Its unavoidable. Your home may even be noticeably crooked. When your home settles, gaps are created, and larger animals such as rats, mice, squirrels, and even raccoons can gain entry through those gaps.

Inspecting your home for holes and gaps regularly is a good idea not just for pest control but also because heat and cold can escape through those gaps, elevating your energy bill. Gaps most often show up between the home and the foundation or in the roof.

Complex Roofing

Complex roof designs, which are common in older and historic homes, can create numerous nooks and crannies that provide easy access points for wildlife. Features such as dormers, valleys, overhangs, and decorative trim often leave small gaps where materials meet or settle over time. These areas are difficult to seal completely and can offer animals discreet pathways into attics and wall cavities.

Unlike the simpler rooflines of many modern homes, intricate designs increase the number of seams and joints that require maintenance. As these components age and shift, even tiny openings can become entry points for birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other wildlife seeking shelter. Once inside, these animals can nest, cause damage, and remain hidden for long periods, making early detection and prevention more challenging.

Stone Foundation

While stone foundations can provide a great barrier, they can also attract pests as they age. Small gaps form between the stones as the mortar crumbles, providing great shelter for mice and small snakes.

If you have an older house, it may have specific pest control needs. At Critter Guard, our wildlife control solutions can help protect your historic home, especially your roof and attic. To learn more about our wildlife control products, contact us today.