Wildlife, insects & living with nature

Geckos are usually welcome indoor or exterior insect hunters—they eat moths, mosquitoes and flies, though they do not eliminate an infestation. Spiders, frogs, toads, birds and bats are also predators, and bats can pollinate plants or disperse seeds. Their presence is normal and not evidence of a dirty house.

The chain works both ways: lights attract insects, insects attract geckos and spiders, and food waste attracts ants, roaches and rodents—which in turn can attract snakes. Controlling food, water, hiding places and entry points is often more sustainable than indiscriminate spraying. Do not touch, corner, feed, poison or try to relocate wildlife, and keep children and pets from investigating unknown animals.

• Use yellowish/warmer or shielded exterior lighting where suitable to reduce insect attraction while keeping safe visibility.
• Store food in sealed containers, wash dishes promptly and do not leave pet food out overnight.
• Keep firewood, cardboard, construction scraps and dense vegetation away from the house; trim branches touching the roof.