Why You Shouldn’t Handle Wildlife Removal

A lot of our clients ask us why they should hire professional wildlife removal when they could just try to handle the removal themselves? In fact, many of the cases we’re called to are actually homes where the owners tried (and failed) to remove the wild animal on their own. So we thought we’d give you a quick rundown of why handling wildlife removal yourself might not be such a good idea, and why you should leave it up to companies like Wildlife X Team Nashville to handle it for you.

First things first, what do we mean by handling wildlife removal?

Basically, when you’re handling wildlife removal on your own, you typically invest in some form of trap (either a traditional snap trap, or a more humane live trap), and handle the baiting and removal of the nuisance animal. While some homeowners also try to get this done using deterrents (either organic/DIY, or store-bought), though those typically aren’t very effective.

Why shouldn’t you handle wildlife removal?

1.   You risk infection.

This one’s the most serious, and you really shouldn’t mess around with wild animals. Because all of these critters, from raccoons to squirrels to snakes to opossums, to anything else you might have living on your property, all carry and spread disease. Now, most of these critters aren’t nearly as aggressive as we imagine them to be, but they will still lash out (e.g. scratch or bite you) if they feel threatened.

An altercation with a nuisance wild animal can expose you to serious, even life-threatening diseases, so it’s best to avoid putting yourself in that situation. If you have been bitten, scratched, or have come into direct contact with wild animals, seek emergency medical care immediately. While many of these diseases can be treated, failing to do so in time can result in death.

2.   The chances of removing the wild animal are slim.

There’s a reason why people employ professional wildlife removal companies – they know what they’re doing. Since most homeowners lack the necessary apparel or expertise, their chances of successfully capturing and removing a wild animal from their property are tiny – so find a professional here.

So basically, you’re running the risk of wasting hours and even days trying to DIY, during which time, the animal has more time to pollute your home and destroy your property. That doesn’t sound like a very good deal to us.

3.   You’re not saving as much as you think.

The number one reason some homeowners are trying DIY wildlife removal is they think they’ll save a lot of money on it. Except that’s not quite true. Sure, if you compare the cost of hiring a professional with that of a store-bought live trap, then yes, there’s a big difference. But that’s not all you’ll be buying. After all, you also need to buy bait, necessary protective gear (to avoid a trip to the emergency room, in case you do come into contact with it), and professional-grade cleaning material and equipment…

And when you add all that up and then mix in the time and effort you’ll also be throwing at the problem, then people typically find it’s not such a worthwhile deal, after all.

4.   A professional can also help prevent future infestations.

One of the great things about hiring a professional wildlife removal company is that they will also be able to spot weaknesses around your home. They’ll look at things like entry points, and what may be attracting the wild animals to your home, and advise you on how to prevent future infestations. And you need to take that into account, otherwise, you’re just removing one raccoon to replace it with another before the month is out.

5.   You don’t want to get in trouble with the law.

Because yes, attempting improper DIY wildlife removal could get you into some legal hot waters. Depending on the state you live in, some wild animals, like bats, for instance, might be protected by law. And thus, removing them, or attempting to remove them might get you a visit from the police.

Now, a wildlife removal company already knows that, as well as the appropriate, legal steps to take, to fix your problem, but also abide by the law.