Got an unexpected animal (or several) living under your deck, or maybe in your attic or chimney? You may be thinking of looking for a live trap so that you can attempt to capture him, her or them and then relocate the animal(s) to a natural area. This may seem like a good idea, but if you want to get them out of the house space they are occupying without causing unintentional harm or making the problem worse, that’s not the best way to go. … [Read more...]
Bat in House … What to do?
If you discover a bat flying around your house, don’t take it personally. It’s not a comment on your housekeeping—or lack thereof! Sometimes they accidentally fly in through an open door without being noticed. Other times they find their way in through gaps in your eaves, spaces around loose-fitting windows or doors, vents, or other small openings. So, okay, that may be a comment on the need for some outdoor maintenance, but we’ll get to that … [Read more...]
Raccoon Trap 101
Although trapping is frequently suggested as a solution to wildlife conflicts, it’s neither the best nor the most effective approach. Here is what you need to know about trapping before you even think about using a raccoon trap. In many states it is illegal to trap and remove raccoons without a license, so check with your state wildlife agency, county, or local animal care and control department. Even if it is legal, trapping usually … [Read more...]
Want to Get Rid of Raccoons?
If the is a raccoon (or raccoons) inside your house or building there are a couple of recommended solutions to get rid of raccoons. First it is important to know that there could be dependent young inside between late February and September and trying to kick a momma raccoon out during this time may result in some damage to your house as mom’s strong maternal instincts compel her to get back to her babies. It is also important that you don’t … [Read more...]
That Noise May Be a Bird in a Vent
Whether you love birds or barely notice them, you’re not expected to love them nesting in the various exhaust vents of your home, rustling and chattering at the crack of dawn. But that’s exactly where cavity-nesting birds often look to make their nests. House sparrows and starlings are both widespread and numerous, after having been brought to North America where they were misguidedly and purposefully released. Unlike most wild birds, these “vent … [Read more...]
How to Get Rid of Mice
You have your suspicions… maybe you’ve seen some tiny droppings here and there, or heard little rustling noises when you enter the kitchen. Mice! But how can you be sure? Are the mice in your attic? The basement? So, how do you get rid of mice? Fear not. Although a mouse infestation is a challenging situation, it is not an unsolvable one, and you’re already on the right path simply by reading this article. Check out the signs… In addition … [Read more...]
Bird in Basement? Here’s What to Do!
Okay, don’t be embarrassed if you freaked out a little when that bird in your basement suddenly startled you, making you completely forget what you went down there for. Who expects a bird in their basement? But stay calm, and carry on with trying to remember what you meant to look for. You can safely do that first and attend to getting the bird out later, because not all birds are going to behave like those in the Hitchcock movie—well, none, … [Read more...]
Bat Traps: How to Remove Bats from Buildings
Bats are a huge help in keeping insects in check. But they may seem a bit less helpful when they “check in” to your attic or roost nearby behind a shutter or in your gazebo or carport. And especially when one accidentally gets into your home and starts zipping around, seeking a way out. If one of these scenarios has you searching for bat traps, read on for helpful guidance. Putting important safety concerns in perspective… Although bats can … [Read more...]
Havahart Traps and Other Live-catch Wildlife Traps
This article focuses on how to ensure live-catch traps work their best, both for resolving your situation and preventing, or at least minimizing, harm or stress for wildlife. Before attempting to trap any wild animal in or near your home, though, you need to check with your local humane society or state wildlife agency about pertinent laws for your area. Even more important—before resorting to obtaining a live-catch trap, such as one of the … [Read more...]
Wild Life Control: An Ounce of Prevention…
Preventive maintenance is the best form of wild life control, or more correctly, "wildlife" control. Want to troubleshoot your home and gardens before problems begin? Check out the tips below. Preventing wildlife access to your home… Periodically inspect your home’s exterior, looking for likely entry points for wildlife, so you can avoid needing wildlife control services. Always be sure no animals are inside before sealing an opening or … [Read more...]