Are You Feeding Wildlife Without Even Realizing It?

Unintentional Invitations That Bring Nuisance Animals to Your Doorstep

At 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control, we get it — you didn’t mean to roll out the red carpet for raccoons or throw a dinner party for rodents. But across Virginia, homeowners are unknowingly creating perfect feeding stations that draw in wildlife and set the stage for infestations.

Let’s break down the top ways people unintentionally feed nuisance animals — and what you can do about it.

1. Bird Feeders: More Than Just for the Birds

While birdwatching is a relaxing hobby, seed feeders quickly become hotspots for squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, and even black bears in some areas. Seed that falls to the ground is a buffet for rodents, and platform feeders are easy pickings for anything that can climb.

What to do:
Switch to feeders with catch trays, clean up seed daily, and bring feeders in at night.

2. Pet Food on Porches or in Garages

Leaving pet food bowls outside is a guaranteed wildlife magnet. Even if you only do it for “a few minutes,” animals like skunks, raccoons, and feral cats are opportunists and will remember a free meal.

What to do:
Feed pets indoors, or supervise meals and clean up immediately afterward.

3. Unsecured Trash Cans & Compost Bins

Trash night becomes wildlife night if you’re not using secured lids. Compost piles with food scraps are also prime targets — raccoons and rats don’t care that it's “organic.”

What to do:
Use wildlife-proof trash cans, store bins in a shed or garage, and avoid composting food waste unless it's in an enclosed tumbler system.

4. Fallen Fruit from Trees and Gardens

Fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and even unharvested crops can attract deer, groundhogs, raccoons, and more. Fallen fruit left on the ground is an open invite to every critter with a nose.

What to do:
Harvest produce promptly and pick up fallen fruit daily.

5. Bird Baths and Water Sources

It’s not just about food. Water is a powerful attractant, especially during hot months. Wildlife will travel far for a drink, and a steady water source can keep them coming back.

What to do:
Drain standing water at night and avoid letting decorative fountains or containers fill up.

6. Grills and Grease Traps

Used your grill recently? That drip pan is filled with tempting fat and food residue that scavengers love. We’ve seen raccoons and even bears tip over grills trying to get to it.

What to do:
Clean your grill and empty the drip tray regularly.

Unintentional Feeding = Intentional Infestation

The animals you’re feeding today might be in your home tomorrow. Food attracts wildlife. Wildlife finds entry points. Before you know it, you’re dealing with damage, droppings, noise, and potentially dangerous pathogens.

If you’re seeing signs of wildlife around your property — or want to make sure you're not setting yourself up for an issue — call 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control for a comprehensive home inspection.

We know wildlife. We know Virginia. And we know how to keep your home protected.