Humane Wildlife Control: Ethical Ways to Deal with Nuisance Animals 

It’s a jungle out there. No matter where you live — rolling farmlands, sprawling suburbs, or bustling urban centers — you could be in closer proximity to wildlife than you may think.  

Truth be told, as populations expand and land development increases, humans encroach more and more on wildlife habitats. It’s only natural that animals, in turn, occasionally wander into human territories. Wild animals are continually adapting to their environments, which may provide excellent viewing opportunities for wildlife outdoors, but it also increases the likelihood that you could end up with wildlife causing problems on your property or inside your home or business.  

USX Pest Control has expertise in providing ethical, humane wildlife control in New York and Western Massachusetts. One thing we know for certain is the more you know about wildlife control, the better prepared you will be when it happens to you.  

Common Wildlife Pests in Upstate New York and Massachusetts 

Upstate New York and Western Massachusetts are home to some seriously stunning natural wonders. From the majestic Adirondacks and sprawling parklands in New York to Massachusetts’ breathtaking wilderness, Mount Greylock, and sparkling Quabbin Reservoir, the sights in the region exemplify “the great outdoors.”  

With so much nature right at your doorstep, various wildlife species are likely to be your neighbors, even if you live and work in the suburbs and urban areas. Animals are drawn to properties of all types, largely due to food, shelter, or ease of accessibility.  

Do you hear scurrying in your walls or attic? Maybe you wake up to find your trash scattered outside, burrows in your yard, and sounds of suspicious activity under your porch. These are just a few signs that you could be dealing with one (or more) of Upstate New York’s and Western Massachusetts’ common pests.  

Let’s take a closer look at some of the common household pests found in the region. 

Squirrels 

Gray, flying, red, and tree squirrels are all common in the area. These fluffy-tailed animals are cute, but they can do extensive damage in the garden and indoors.  

Signs of Squirrel Activity:  

• Gnawed siding, weatherstripping, and insulation 
• Chewed up wires 
• Stolen bird and pet food 
• Excavated seeds and bulbs from the garden 

Raccoons 

These masked bandits look cute, and they are known to be both curious, intelligent, and incredibly agile climbers. Raccoons love getting into garbage and gardens and will nest in attics, basements, and other areas. 

Signs of Raccoon Activity:  

• Strange noises, including hissing and screaming 
• Cylindrical, dark-colored droppings near woodpiles or around the base of trees 
• Dens established in sheltered areas like attics and sheds 
• Garbage thrown around 

Skunks 

These pests really stink. Skunks use their distinctive, foul-smelling spray as a defense mechanism, but it’s not the only unpleasant thing you will notice if they invade your property. These nuisance wildlife often dig large holes in yards and can spread dangerous diseases and parasites. 

Signs of Skunk Activity: 

• Persistent odors under porches or around woodpiles 
• Cone-shaped holes in yards and landscaping 
• Scratching sounds in sheds, garages, under porches, or inside buildings 

Bats 

Bats are protected because they are critical to many ecosystems. However, these animals can carry rabies, making them roommates you definitely don’t want to have. Bats can also contaminate insulation and other surfaces with their droppings. 

Signs of Bat Activity: 

• Strange noises, including scratching and squeaking 
• Bat droppings, which can eat away at wood and other materials 
• An unexplained scent of ammonia 

Groundhogs 

Groundhogs look cute and cuddly from a distance, but they can cause widespread damage to lawns, gardens, and structures. Not only do these critters dig large holes, but they also create tunnel systems between holes and build dens adjacent to buildings, under sheds, and beneath porches. Their digging can weaken foundations and cause structural damage in addition to harming crops and plants. 

Signs of Groundhogs: 

• Ruined crops and landscaping 
• Large holes  
• Unexplainable cracks in driveways, sidewalks, and foundations 

Ground Nesting Birds and Geese 

Most birds, along with their eggs and nests, are protected and require a permit to handle or even attempt to remove them. Bird species can be problematic for many reasons, including the possibility that their droppings could transmit diseases, destroy vegetation, and affect gutters and painted surfaces. Additionally, species like Canadian geese can be aggressive and strip vegetation from the properties they inhabit.  

Signs of Ground Nesting Birds and Geese: 

• Destruction of lawns or flowerbeds 
• Increase in the amount of bird waste  
• Damage to siding and structural materials 
• Screeching and other noises  
• Visible nests 

How to Humanely Control Wildlife Pests 

Damage to property and the health risks posed by wildlife pests are only part of the equation. Many wildlife species are protected by local, state, and federal regulations. Federal agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services take part in regulating wildlife control. Additionally, certain federal laws like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act, were passed to protect specific species. 

Beyond the laws and regulations, there are also ethical concerns surrounding wildlife control and removal. Treating animals in a respectful manner and following all regulations and laws is essential. That’s why professional intervention is a must when wildlife invades your home, business, or property.  

However, it’s possible to take some proactive steps for humane wildlife control in Massachusetts and New York.  

Prevention Is Key 

Animals often venture into human spaces for food, water, and shelter. By eliminating access to these elements, it’s possible to naturally prevent infestations. Habitat modifications, including keeping the grass trimmed and preventing standing water, can help avoid attracting wildlife looking for nesting spots and water. Other preventive steps include: 

• Eliminate access to food by securing garbage in secure, lidded receptacles. Don’t leave pet food outdoors and be careful with bird feeder placement and seed storage. 
• Remove debris, including leaves and wood piles, and store firewood off the ground 20 feet or more from the house. 
• Plan your landscaping with wild animals in mind. Avoid berry bushes and other plants that provide animals with food or shelter or fence them off to prevent animals from getting to them. 
• Trim shrubs, trees, and landscaping away from the exterior of your home or building to prevent giving animals’ easy access. 
• Seal potential entry points by placing screening over vents and fan openings and installing door sweeps under exterior doors.  

Repellents 

Natural methods for keeping wildlife away can deter animals without disrupting the ecosystem or harming wildlife. For example, using a combination of patience and unpleasant sounds and smells can help drive animals away from the area. Rags soaked in cider vinegar and bright lights and loud music at night can transform what seemed to be a safe haven into one that is no longer an attractive shelter. 

Professional Assistance 

Professionals, like the expert team at USX Pest, can accurately identify different species and help determine why they moved into the space. Additionally, professionals can help monitor the situation, comply with all applicable laws and regulations, and devise customized preventive plans. Moreover, having pros on your side can open new avenues for prevention, including the installation of Rodent and Wildlife Exclusion Systems. These rigid barriers provide humane, chemical-free, targeted protection to keep pests out.  

Contact USX Pest for Professional Wildlife Control for Your Property 

Dealing with nuisance animals can be dangerous. Not only can they be aggressive when cornered, but they can carry dangerous diseases that affect humans and other animals alike. Combined with the ethical implications, it’s clear that animal removal isn’t a DIY project.  

Rely on the professionals at USX Pest. Our team can promptly and effectively remove wildlife from your property following all ethical means and applicable laws and regulations. Your property will be in good hands. Schedule a free inspection today to get started.