Flooding in Orlando isn’t just a water issue—it also increases the chances of unwanted wildlife making their way into your home. As rising waters push animals from their natural habitats, they may seek shelter in residential areas. Here’s how flooding affects wildlife, how to recognize signs of infestation, and what Orlando homeowners can do to protect their properties.When floodwaters rise, creatures like snakes, raccoons, and rodents are often displaced and forced into new environments—including your attic, garage, or basement. This sudden shift can lead to unexpected and even dangerous encounters with wildlife. In addition to property damage, these animals can carry diseases, contaminate food, and cause electrical or structural issues. Knowing what to look for and how to respond can help you act fast and stay safe.

How Flooding Affects Wildlife in Orlando

1. Displacement of Wildlife from Natural Habitats

Floodwaters force animals such as raccoons, snakes, and armadillos out of forests, swamps, and riverbanks, pushing them toward drier, higher ground—often near or inside human homes.Without access to their normal shelters, animals instinctively migrate to places that offer safety and warmth. Residential areas, especially those near wooded or wetland zones, become easy targets. This sudden displacement can result in increased sightings and infestations almost overnight.

2. Contaminated Food and Water Sources

When their usual food and water supplies are disrupted or contaminated, animals search elsewhere for survival, often scavenging in garbage bins, attics, and basements.Floodwaters often carry pollutants, sewage, and debris that destroy or contaminate natural food chains. As a result, desperate wildlife invades homes looking for clean water and nourishment. Even pet food, compost piles, and open pantries can become feeding grounds for displaced animals.

3. Increased Nesting Opportunities in Homes

With trees and burrows flooded, wildlife looks for warm, dry places—attics, crawl spaces, and garages become prime real estate for nesting animals.Soft insulation, stored boxes, and rarely visited corners provide perfect environments for raising young. Animals such as squirrels, rats, and opossums can quickly build nests and start reproducing. Once settled, removing them can be difficult without professional help.

4. Elevated Reproductive Activity

Some species, like rodents and insects, may accelerate breeding after floods due to the sudden abundance of food or habitat changes.Flooding can disrupt predator-prey relationships, temporarily reducing natural threats and allowing certain species to flourish. Combined with access to human food and shelter, this leads to population booms in a short amount of time. This reproductive surge often overwhelms unprepared homeowners.

5. Greater Risk of Human-Wildlife Encounters

Floods bring animals closer to residential zones, increasing the chances of bites, scratches, and disease transmission such as leptospirosis or rabies.Children and pets are especially vulnerable during this time, as they may unknowingly approach wildlife in distress. Animals may become aggressive or defensive when cornered. Direct contact with urine, feces, or nesting materials can also pose health threats to residents.

6. Migration of Dangerous Species

Venomous snakes, alligators, and other dangerous wildlife may move into populated areas during floods, creating serious safety hazards for homeowners.These animals are often difficult to spot and may hide in waterlogged yards, garages, or under debris. A single unexpected encounter can result in injury or panic. Their presence demands immediate attention and professional removal to avoid potentially life-threatening situations.

Common Entry Points for Wildlife in Orlando Homes

• Gaps in the roofline or soffits
• Broken or uncovered vents
• Chimneys without caps
• Openings around pipes or cables
• Damaged or missing crawl space covers
• Cracks in the foundation
• Unsealed windows or doors
• Holes in the attic or garage walls

Signs of Infestation After Flooding in Orlando

• Droppings or foul odors
• Scratching, rustling, or scurrying noises at night
• Visible nests in attics, garages, or basements
• Chewed wires, insulation, or wood
• Tracks or muddy prints near entrances
• Pets showing unusual behavior
• Unexplained holes in your yard or garden
• Sighting of animals inside or near your home

How to Protect Your Orlando Home After a Flood

1. Seal All Entry Points

Inspect and close off any holes, cracks, or gaps that wildlife could use to enter your home. Use metal mesh, caulk, or professional-grade sealants for best results.

2. Clean Up Debris Quickly

Standing water, trash, and organic debris attract pests. Clear your yard and remove flood-damaged items promptly to avoid drawing in animals.

3. Secure Food and Garbage

Store food in sealed containers and keep trash bins tightly closed. Avoid leaving pet food outside, especially overnight.

4. Restore and Repair

Fix water-damaged insulation, drywall, and wood, which can serve as nesting material. Replace broken vents and reinstall screen coverings.

5. Use Wildlife-Proof Fencing

Consider fencing around your property or garden to deter larger animals like raccoons, armadillos, or even deer.

6. Install Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers

These can scare away nocturnal wildlife looking to take shelter around your home.

7. Consult a Pest or Wildlife Professional

After a flood, a professional inspection can uncover hidden signs of infestation and provide safe, humane removal options.

8. Schedule Routine Maintenance

Ongoing maintenance of your property ensures new entry points don’t appear and makes it harder for wildlife to re-enter.

Call for Emergency Wildlife Removal in Orlando

If you suspect that wildlife has entered your home after flooding, don’t wait. Delays can lead to property damage, health risks, and expensive repairs. Contact a professional for wildlife removal in Orlando to safely handle animals like raccoons, snakes, opossums, or rodents. These experts are trained to identify hiding spots, safely remove animals, and prevent re-entry, ensuring your home is safe and secure once more.

Conclusion

Flooding in Orlando doesn’t just damage homes—it disrupts ecosystems and sends wildlife into residential areas. By understanding the risks and taking preventive action, you can protect your home and family from unwanted wildlife encounters. Stay alert after storms, check for signs of animal activity, and don’t hesitate to call for professional help when needed.

FAQs

What animals are most likely to enter homes after flooding in Orlando?

Common intruders include raccoons, snakes, squirrels, opossums, and rats, all of which seek dry shelter during floods.

How soon after a flood should I inspect for wildlife?

Begin inspection immediately once it’s safe. Wildlife can move in quickly, especially within the first 24–72 hours post-flood.

Is wildlife removal safe and humane?

Yes. Licensed professionals use humane traps and relocation techniques to protect both animals and homeowners.

Can I prevent wildlife from returning after removal?

Yes. Sealing entry points, routine inspections, and habitat modifications help prevent reinfestation.

What should I do if I see a snake after a flood?

Stay calm, keep a safe distance, and contact wildlife removal experts immediately. Do not attempt to handle snakes yourself.