Recently our own library had a bird flying around and chirping for several days. Many staff members attempted to catch him and release him outdoors.

The common house sparrow's name implies the habit of such creatures to enter homes and human habitats. In the road, especially interstates, fast food trash and carrion attract ground squirrels, opossums and skunks. The nation's four million miles of road are a major contributor to loss of wildlife habitat. In contrast, mockingbirds feed on multi-flora rosebushes on the medians of I-95. Ornithologist Richard M. De Grasf claims that in eight years they swarmed into New England by that interstate. Sometimes we read about deer crashing through store fronts. News stories are abundant about bears in the backyard. In Wild Neighbors: The Humane Approach to Living with Wildlife, there is a listing of how sparrows, bats, starlings, raccoons, snakes and other animals enter our homes and yards. Some snakes can access openings as small as one eighth to one fourth of an inch! Starlings enter dryer and exhaust vents by lifting their flaps. Practical solutions for your home that include caulking, foam sealants, netting and fencing are available in the sources listed below.