Encounters with wildlife can be both fascinating and frightening. While many people are eager to get a glimpse of wild animals in their natural habitats, some may find them to be a nuisance or even extremely destructive to their property and a threat to their safety. In these cases, it is common for people to turn to do-it-yourself (DIY) methods to control wildlife, such as trapping or relocating them. However, what many people fail to recognize is that DIY wildlife control methods can be dangerous, both for the person attempting the control and for the animals themselves.
In this article, we will explore the five main reasons why DIY wildlife removal can be hazardous and why it is often better to seek the assistance of trained professionals for rodent infestations and other issues involving wildlife in homes or buildings.
1. Lack of expertise
Wildlife control professionals undergo specialized training to learn how to handle wildlife safely and effectively—from rodent problems in the kitchen to roosting bats in the attic. They know how to identify different species, assess their behavior, and use appropriate techniques to remove them from residential or commercial properties. In contrast, DIY wildlife control methods often involve guesswork or online tutorials, which may not take into account the specific behaviors of the animal in question. This lack of expertise can lead to ineffective control methods or, worse, dangerous encounters with wildlife.
2. Unpredictable behavior
It does matter if you’re dealing with snakes, snunks, bats, rats or mice—wild animals are unpredictable and can exhibit sudden changes in behavior, especially when they feel threatened or cornered. Even if you think you know how to handle a particular species, it could still attack or harm you. For example, a raccoon that looks docile during the day could become aggressive at night when it feels threatened. Professionals are trained to anticipate and handle these unpredictable situations safely.
3. Legal issues
Wildlife control is regulated by local, state, and federal laws, and certain species may be protected. It is illegal to trap, relocate, or kill certain species without a permit, and attempting to do so can result in fines or even criminal charges. Wildlife control professionals are licensed and permitted to handle wildlife according to the laws and regulations in their area. Attempting to handle wildlife on your own without the necessary permits can result in legal consequences.
4. Health risks
Wild animals can carry diseases and parasites that can be transmitted to humans through bites, scratches, or contact with feces or urine. Rabies, for example, is a deadly disease that can be transmitted to humans through the saliva of infected animals. Even handling a dead animal can pose health risks, as the carcass could be infected with bacteria or viruses. Wildlife control professionals have the proper protective gear and training to minimize the risk of disease transmission, as well as effectively clean and disinfect any contaminated areas.
5. Humane concerns
DIY wildlife control methods may not be humane and could cause unnecessary suffering to the animal. For example, using a glue trap to capture a rodent can result in prolonged suffering, as the animal struggles to free itself. Wildlife control professionals are trained to use humane methods that minimize the risk of harm to the animal, such as live trapping and relocation to natural habitats. This approach is more ethical and can also prevent the spread of disease, as stressed animals are more likely to become carriers of pathogens.
Why Choose Animal Capture Wildlife Control
Animal Capture Wildlife Control specializes in professional wildlife control services, including trapping, removal, and exclusion techniques to prevent future animal intrusions. We have licensed and trained technicians who use humane and effective methods to handle a variety of wildlife species, including bats, snakes, raccoons, opossums, and more. If you are looking for a professional wildlife control company, call Animal Capture Wildlife Control at (310) 551-0901.