Yurts and Critters

[Jafo]

So far (knock on wood), we have been pretty fortunate that we have had no real vermin or other animal issues at our yurt. Considering that it is located in the middle of the woods, miles from electricity, people and traffic, that is saying something. We did have a bear move around part of our camp fire pit to get at some eggshells we accidentally left in there but otherwise nothing. I expected to see some evidence of mice at least, but so far so good. We also take great care to get all the food out of the yurt and we use a shop vac to vacuum up before we leave so as to even catch the crumbs.

What's everyone's experience in their yurt been like?

[blondie]

My reseach of the area indicates that critters are an issue. I have pondered putting some tin flashing around each of the deck support posts. Does anyone else have any ideas?

[Jafo]

We used 2X6 tongue and groove flooring for our deck so they are going to have to have some real sharp teeth to get through that. I was worried about them slipping in under the side cover. We put weatherstripping between the side cover and the skirt before we screwed it down. That has helped keep them out I believe.

I also think that limiting the drilling into the floor might help. Many times you can put that stuff out between the side cover and skirt. If you do have to run pipe or electrical, make sure there is no space left there. Mice can squeeze through a hole the size of the tip of your pinky. I found that expanding spray foam you get in a bottle really solves that issue. I have yet to see a mouse chew through that stuff. They also will not chew through steel wool so plug up any small holes with it if you want.