Wildlife
What are wildlife?
Wildlife pests can come in all shapes and sizes, and include bats, feral cats, groundhogs, opossums, moles, rabbits, raccoons, skunks, snakes, and squirrels.
Wildlife refers to undomesticated animals and plants living in their natural habitats, encompassing a vast array of species and ecosystems. These organisms play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. They include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and countless other organisms, each adapted to its specific environment and niche.
In the wild, raccoons make dens in tree cavities and caves, while skunks live in grasslands and forests. Rabbits prefer swamps and woodlands, with lots of groundcover for hiding or burrowing, and snakes live in forests, prairies, deserts, marshes, and near freshwater lakes and ponds.
However, it faces numerous challenges, primarily due to human activities. Habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade are among the significant threats to their populations worldwide. These pressures can lead to habitat loss, fragmentation, and endangerment or extinction of certain species.
Often when These pests invade homes or businesses, they are simply seeking a source of food, water, and shelter. Raccoons are extremely well adapted to this and like to live under porches, and in garages, abandoned buildings, and barns. They will eat anything they can find, including garbage, bird feeders, and unattended pet food. However, sometimes, they invade trying to replicate their natural nesting habitat. Bats roost under bridges, caves, and rock crevices. Looking for somewhere similar, they sometimes enter homes through open windows and doors, and end up roosting, and giving birth to young, in attics.
Wildlife control?
Use tamper-resistant outdoor garbage cans. Store garbage cans away from your home, Remove bird feeders and pet food. Trim back overhanging trees and shrubs. Build fences below and above ground. Seal potential entry points and openings. Secure gaps under decks and porches. Install screening over vents and chimneys. Remove collections of debris and brush. Use flashing lights or sound repellents.