Wildlife Removal Services in California

Raccoon Removal

The population of raccoons throughout the United States is on the rise(Opens in a new window), which indicates more raccoons will be looking for shelter in homes or businesses. Naturally, raccoons den in existing shelters like hollow trees, ground burrows, and muskrat houses, but with habitat loss, spaces like attics, crawlspaces, and chimneys are becoming more prevalent. These clever creatures are excellent climbers and intelligent problem solvers, making raccoon removal a daunting task for a property owner.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in raccoon removal. In order to remove and control a raccoon or family of raccoons on your property, our wildlife specialist will perform a thorough inspection to ascertain the severity of the raccoon infestation. After the inspection, they will build a custom solution to trap, remove, and seal all entry points. They will also provide warranty options as well as an estimate for preventative services.

Raccoon Inspection

The Wildlife Service Technician will look for signs such as footprints on, in, or around your home, large openings leading to the attic or crawl space, and racccoon poop.

Raccoon Trapping & Removing

Live trapping is the most effective and humane way to remove a raccoon. Direct capture is not commonly used because raccoons are a rabies vector species. If legal, a healthy trapped raccoon will be relocated with written permission. When babies are removed from an attic, our wildlife specialists seek help from a local wildlife rehabilitation center.

Exclusion and Habitat Modification

Preventative exclusion services are the most effective means to prevent a raccoon from entering your home. After raccoon removal, it is imperative to seal all entry points to prevent future entry. Ensuring you don’t create a home for raccoons outside your property will also help prevent attracting raccoons. However, habitat modification will become very important for prevention after dealing with a raccoon invasion. Frightening devices only temporarily work, and there are no toxicants regulated for raccoons.

Mole Control

Moles are small, burrowing mammals that are found throughout many parts of the world. They are known for their pointed snouts, tiny eyes, and large, paddle-like feet that are adapted for digging.

While moles play an important role in the ecosystem by aerating soil and controlling insect populations, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. Moles create an extensive network of tunnels underground, which can damage lawns and gardens, and disrupt landscaping.

At Best Pest Wildlife and Control, we specialize in humane mole control and removal. Our team of experienced professionals uses safe and effective trapping methods to remove moles from your property, and we work with you to develop a plan to prevent future mole infestations.

We also offer mole exclusion services, which involve sealing up any entry points to prevent moles from returning to your property. Our goal is to provide our clients with a safe, effective, and long-term solution to their mole problems.

Opossums

Opossums, also known as possums, are the only marsupial native to North America. They are typically around the size of a large cat, with grayish-white fur and a long, pointed nose. Opossums have a prehensile tail that they can use to climb trees and carry nesting material.

While opossums are often considered pests, they actually play an important role in controlling insect and rodent populations. They are also one of the few animals that can eat venomous snakes without being harmed.

However, opossums can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are known for rummaging through trash cans, stealing pet food, and creating dens in attics or crawl spaces.

If you’re dealing with an opossum problem, it’s important to seek professional help. Opossums can carry diseases such as leptospirosis and tuberculosis, and they may become aggressive if they feel threatened.

Skunks

Skunks are small mammals known for their distinctive black and white striped fur and the strong odor they emit when threatened. They are native to the Americas and are found throughout North, Central, and South America.

Skunks are omnivores and feed on a variety of foods, including insects, small animals, fruits, and vegetables. They are nocturnal animals and are most active at night.

While skunks are generally considered harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. Skunks are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they can cause damage to property by digging burrows and tearing up lawns in search of grubs and insects.

Squirrels

Squirrels are small to medium-sized rodents that are found all over the world. There are more than 200 species of squirrels, ranging in size from the tiny African pygmy squirrel to the larger fox squirrel and gray squirrel found in North America.

Squirrels are known for their bushy tails, which they use for balance and communication. They have sharp teeth and strong jaws that they use to crack open nuts and other tough food items. Squirrels are also excellent climbers, with sharp claws that allow them to scale trees and buildings with ease.

While squirrels are generally considered cute and harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they may cause damage to property by chewing on wood, insulation, and other materials.

Rats

Rats are medium-sized rodents that are found all over the world. There are two main species of rats that are commonly found in urban and suburban areas: the brown rat and the black rat. Both species can be carriers of diseases that can be transmitted to humans, making them a serious health risk.

Rats have sharp teeth and strong jaws that they use to chew through wood, plastic, and other materials. They are also excellent climbers, with strong legs and sharp claws that allow them to scale walls and buildings with ease.

Rats are known to be scavengers and will eat just about anything, including garbage, pet food, and even other rodents. They are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they may cause damage to property by chewing on wires, insulation, and other materials.

Flying Squirrel Removal

Flying squirrels are small, nocturnal tree squirrels that possess the ability to glide from perch to perch using webbed flaps of skin, which extend along the sides of their bellies between their hands and feet. The omnivorous rodents live in trees and sometimes eat bird eggs and small bugs like moths and beetles in addition to their regular diet of nuts, berries, and fruit.

Flying squirrels are like most wildlife. They spend most of their time searching for food, water, and shelter. Their top priority is food, so if you see flying squirrels in your trees, lawn, attic, or roof, you likely have a good food source nearby. Examples include birdseed in birdfeeders, nuts, grains, berries, mushrooms, flower buds, bugs, and fruit.

While you may only see them on rare occasions, you will likely see signs of their activity. Also, flying squirrels prefer to colonize. Where you find one, there are likely twenty or more nearby.

SIGNS OF FLYING SQUIRRELS

When Critter Control experts inspect properties for signs of flying squirrels, they look for the following:

• Chew marks on the roof’s edges, shingles, eaves, soffits, etc.
• Scratch marks on walls, trees, siding, etc.
• Damage to garden crops or flowers
• Sight and smell of droppings
• Noises like chirping and chattering

Flying squirrels will build a nest in your attic if they can. However, they prefer living in holes in trees or birdhouses. They like dense vegetation that allows them to glide from place to place. Flying squirrels are known to live in colonies. Therefore, if you see one, there are probably more. Some groups of squirrels create latrines, meaning they choose one area they will use as a bathroom. The amount of feces and urine in one spot leads to foul odors much quicker than if one squirrel is living there. In addition, squirrel feces can be a host for salmonellosis.

FLYING SQUIRREL CONTROL METHODS

Controlling flying squirrels on residential properties is much different than on commercial properties. For example, a squirrel in a chimney is much easier to remove than a squirrel living in a nest inside a gutter outside the 20th floor of an office building. When a squirrel chews through an electrical wire at your residence, your home is affected. When they chew the electrical wires of a business, the consequences can affect every office in the building and possibly on the street.

Flying squirrel control is best done by wildlife experts who understand their habits and any laws that apply to removal. Flying squirrels are generally skittish and want to avoid conflict. Deterrents can be effective. In the case of flying squirrels, motion-detecting sprinkling systems are a great deterrent. If squirrels inhabit your attic or shed, place a radio inside and let it play all day and night. The noise might scare the squirrels, and they will move on.

Most flying squirrels are not protected and can be trapped, but you must use the correct bait and trapping system. Trapping flying squirrels can take weeks or months, depending on how many colonize your property. Trapping is followed by releasing the squirrel on your property and reuniting them with their young if any were found in a nest. In most states, transporting and relocating a squirrel is illegal due to the potential spread of disease. For this reason, exclusion methods are a must for controlling activity.

EXCLUSION METHODS

An exclusion means preventing an animal from entering your home and making your property unattractive. Examples include removing birdfeeders filled with seeds, You can add a squirrel barrier to your bird feeder to keep them out, but you will still need to keep the ground below the feeder clean. Another exclusion technique is to install roof and tree barriers to prevent climbing and maintaining your lawn. In addition, seal all holes and cracks big enough for flying squirrels to enter your home, repair broken windows and doors, and secure chimney and vent openings with wire mesh or a cap.

Keep tree branches pruned so they do not make it easy for squirrels to jump onto your roof. Another trick is to place PVC pipe over outdoor electrical wires. When a squirrel tries to run across, it will spin and the squirrel will fall off. This must be done by a professional, either from the electrical company or a wildlife pro, to ensure safety for everyone.

Flying squirrel removal can be dangerous. Squirrels are known to carry lice, fleas, and ticks that carry bacterial infections they can give to you. For example, deer ticks carry the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that lead to Lyme disease. Also, squirrels may bite or scratch if they feel threatened, especially if they have recently given birth.

It is always best to call a wildlife control professional who can complete the job quickly and ensure safety for you and the flying squirrel.

Gopher

As ridiculously funny as the movie Caddy Shack was, there is some painful truth to the damage gophers wreak and how tricky gopher control can get. Gophers spend their whole lives underground, where they build complex systems of tunnels. Within these tunnels, they eat by munching on roots and pulling plants into their tunnel, mate, and raise their pups.

The four large incisor teeth gophers are notable for continuing to grow throughout their lives, as do other critters in the rodent family, such as mice and rats. However, unlike most rodents, they are not nocturnal.

HOW DO I KNOW IF A GOPHER IS IN MY YARD?

When looking out at a lawn with mounds of dirt, it may not be easy to distinguish between a gopher or mole problem. Both create extensive tunnels beneath the grass and spend most of their time underground. It will take a Critter Control specialist to identify exactly which pest is on your property.

Nice lawns make the perfect habitat for gophers. They love healthy, loose soil, so the better your lawn looks to you, the better it looks to a gopher too. Gophers love garden vegetables, bulbs, and other roots they come across. Their primary way of foraging for food is to eat through plant and lawn roots as they build their tunnels. One gopher will consume 60 percent of its body weight every day. This process can destroy the ecosystem beneath your lawn.

GOPHER DAMAGE

The unsightly mounds gophers make are just the visible damage they create. The tunnels they create weaken the ground you walk on and could cause a cave-in. And, by eating the roots as they dig, the grass will begin to die, causing brown patches in the lawn you’ve worked so hard to maintain the beauty of. Gopher problems also arise when the rodents feed on garden crops, ornamental plants, shrubs, and trees.

GETTING RID OF GOPHERS

Gopher removal is a time-consuming and resource-intensive process. Gophers are smart animals that can easily outsmart an untrained person trying to capture them. And, with extensive tunnels crossing through your lawn, it’s hard to know exactly where they are. The best way to handle a gopher problem is to call a Best Pest Wildlife and Control specialist who will arrive with the right tools and training to trap the gophers safely and mitigate any potential damage.

Ground Squirrel Control

Identifying ground squirrels requires much more than looking out the window and observing a squirrel on the ground.

Ground squirrels are much larger than other tree squirrels. Their weight ranges from 3 to 15 or more pounds. They have fur that resembles the colors of the earth to help them blend in and hide. Their tails are thinner and less bushy than most other squirrels.

As their name indicates, these squirrels mostly stick to the ground even though they are excellent climbers. Ground squirrels make shelters underground and dig extensive tunnels, which can lead to problems on properties with expensive landscaping or crop fields.

HOW TO GET RID OF GROUND SQUIRRELS FROM YARD

Working with a wildlife control expert is best for ground squirrel control and removal. For example, you will receive several options when you call to inquire how to get rid of thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Below are examples of the various options available:

HABITAT MODIFICATION

If not done correctly, modifying the habitat of ground squirrels can lead to other problems. It’s imperative to get expert advice. For example, squirrels avoid thick vegetation. Allowing areas on your property to grow will keep the squirrels away but may also attract other nuisance wildlife. Creating flooded areas will deter squirrels but may waste much-needed water. A wildlife technician can help you find the proper modifications for your site based on your specific ground squirrel problem.

REPELLANTS

Using repellants to create an invisible fence around your property can help with ground squirrel control. Scents and sounds are recommended for repellants. The smell of coyote urine makes squirrels feel threatened. However, if it is placed in the wrong location, near an excellent food source, or burrows, it will not work.

Applying different sound repellants can keep ground squirrels away. Depending on the issues you are experiencing, an expert can recommend things like predator sounds and ultrasounds. They can also help you determine if you need daytime or nighttime repellants, motion-activated, and remote control.

TOXICANTS AND BAITS

Depending on which one, toxicants can be dangerous for humans and are not recommended for getting rid of ground squirrels. Also, you must check state laws to ensure it is legal to use the chemicals. They fall into two categories: first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (FGARs) and zinc phosphide. Hiring an expert can help you choose which can be used in residential areas and for fields only and discuss price differences and effectiveness.

EXCLUSIONS AND FENCING

Exclusions are techniques specific to each animal causing a nuisance on your property. Install sturdy metal fencing above and below ground around your garden or other parts of your property to deter ground squirrels, including the thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Also, use plastic netting and row covers to protect plants. If you must feed birds, use a squirrel barrier or fill it with the food they hate.

Other exclusion tips include decluttering your yard, maintaining the lawn, installing tree barriers or netting, and keeping branches trimmed.

GROUND SQUIRREL TRAPPING

Companies such as Best Pest and Wildlife Control have a safe and humane trapping system that protects you, the squirrel, and the technician. Different types of traps include bait and cage. With both types, you must know which bait to use, where to place the traps, and how to avoid attracting wildlife other than the ground squirrel.

You must also understand local and state laws regarding trapping squirrels. Some are considered fur-bearing game animals and require hunting and trapping licenses. Because they may have diseases, it is illegal to relocate a squirrel to another area. Therefore, you must have a plan for what you will do after ground squirrel removal. Another thing to consider includes regulations regarding testing the squirrel for diseases.

A wildlife expert, like the technicians at Best Pest and Wildlife Control, can help you each step of the way, from inspection to exclusions.

Mice

The house mouse, one of the most detrimental pests in the United States, is second only to humans as the most common mammal in cities across the nation. House mice are notorious nibblers who climb, jump, and swim in order to get to their favorite foods, which are often found in HOUSES, farms, open fields, and commercial buildings. They are curious and fearless creatures that will chew through WALLS, electrical cables, and storage containers in order to get what they want.

HOW TO GET RID OF MICE

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in mice removal and control. Mouse contro begins with a thorough inspection to determine how severe the problem is. The more established mice are, the more involved the control process will be.

When approaching a rodent removal plan, the key to long-term success is to consider the entire mouse population. A few mouse traps won’t solve the problem. A comprehensive plan will include careful inspection, trapping, removal, exclusion, prevention, and clean up. The goal is to exterminate the current infestation, prevent future issues, and reclaim a sanitary environment. Here’s a breakdown of the thorough process:

With the reproductive rate of these animals sitting like a ticking time bomb in your home, a comprehensive mouse control program is necessary.

HOME INSPECTION FOR MICE

During a rodent inspection, our inspector will thoroughly inspect your attic as well as provide a full exterior home inspection. The most common signs of rodent activity are chewing, droppings, rub marks, nesting material, and small entry points.

MOUSE TRAPS & MICE REMOVAL

Based on the inspection, our wildlife specialist creates a strategic trapping plan to remove the mice found in your home. Types of traps, placement of traps, and bait used in traps determines the effectiveness of rodent trapping.

Our wildlife specialist will ensure to use the most efficient and safe removal process for your home. Though the standard trapping/removal duration is normally between 5 to 14 days, the trapping process may be longer if the rodents are well established.

MOUSE CONTROL: EXCLUSION & HABITAT MODIFICATION

Rodent exclusion is the best way to prevent mice from entering your home, but many homeowners do not protect their home until they have experienced a nuisance animal. After rodent removal, it is essential to repair any entry points on your home.

HABITAT MODIFICATION TO PREVENT MICE

Remove trees or branches close to your roof and keep your property clear of debris can help to keep your property rodent free. Rodents love clutter and will use debris for nesting material.

Keep your garage door closed as much as possible, especially at dark. Garages are often used as storage spaces, and rodents will take advantage of any food they can get to or any items that can be used for nesting.

ADDITIONAL RODENT REMOVAL SERVICES

Best Pest and Wildlife Control also offers recurring services to keep your home protected and under warranty. In addition, Best Pest and Wildlife Control provides warranty options as well as an estimate for preventative services to keep your home free future rodent problems.

Muskrats

Muskrats are large rodents that live near freshwater wetlands and feast on aquatic plants throughout North America. Classified as fur-bearing animals, muskrats are a valuable source of fur and may only be trapped during certain times of the year by licensed hunters. They are excellent swimmers able to hold their breath for up to 15 minutes and move at speeds of 3 miles per hour.

We can help you get rid of muskrat problems.

Norway Rats

Reviled as the most destructive mammal pest, Norway rats compromise the well-being of humans and cause costly damage to manmade structures. They can live as long as two years in the wild and produce as many as 20 young in that span of time. Norway rats are mostly active at night, have poor eyesight, and rely on their other senses to guide them. Actually quite intelligent, Norway rats quickly detect and avoid unfamiliar objects that show up in their chosen environment, such as traps and baits. Their rapid rate of reproduction and elusive nature make them particularly challenging to control.

We can help you get rid of norway rat problems.

Pack Rats

Woodrats, commonly called pack rats or trade rats, are found throughout the United States, Mexico, and some parts of Canada. Unlike other species of rats that have scaly tails, pack rats have furry tails. Nocturnal by nature, the pests get their common name from their habit of collecting nonfood items and storing them in a larder near their nests.

We can help you get rid of pack rat problems.

Prairie Dog

Included in the same family as squirrels, chipmunks, and marmots, prairie dogs stick to the ground and prefer to live in open grasslands in order to keep track of potential predators. The animals gain shelter from harsh elements and predators by digging extensive underground tunnel systems. The existence of prairie dogs is instrumental in the survival of other prairie animals, like snakes, and owls, who also utilize prairie dog burrows for shelter.

Rodents

Between 1,000 and 2,000 species of rodents exist on every continent around the world except Antarctica. All types of rodents share the characteristic feature of large, ever-growing front teeth. Most are small mammals that feed primarily on plants, though some rodents will eat practically anything.

In places where humans live, rodents are often considered pests because they contaminate food, damage houses, and spread diseases.

The most common rodents we find to be a nuisance are mice, rats, and squirrels.

Rodent Control

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in rodent removal and control. Rodent removal begins with a thorough inspection to determine how severe the problem is. The more established rodents are, the more involved the removal process will be. After inspecting, our wildlife specialist will build a custom solution to trap, remove, and seal all entry points.

Home Inspection for Rodents

During a rodent inspection, our inspector will thoroughly inspect your attic as well as provide a full exterior home inspection. The most common signs of rodent activity are chewing, droppings, rub marks, nesting material, and small entry points.

RODENT TRAPPING & REMOVAL

Based on the inspection, our wildlife specialist creates a strategic trapping plan to remove the rodents found in your home. Types of traps, placement of traps, and bait used in traps determines the effectiveness of rodent trapping.

Our wildlife specialist will ensure to use the most efficient and safe removal process for your home. Though the standard trapping/removal duration is normally between 5 to 14 days, the trapping process may be longer if the rodents are well established.

RODENT EXCLUSION: LONG-LASTING CONTROL

Rodent exclusion is the best way to prevent rodents from entering your home, but many homeowners do not protect their home until they have experienced a nuisance animal. After rodent removal, it is essential to repair any entry points on your home. Rodents leave pheromone trails, and other rodents quickly utilize those scent trails.

HABITAT MODIFICATION TO PREVENT RODENTS

Remove trees or branches close to your roof and keep your property clear of debris can help to keep your property rodent free. Rodents love clutter and will use debris for nesting material.

Keep your garage door closed as much as possible, especially at dark. Garages are often used as storage spaces, and rodents will take advantage of any food they can get to or any items that can be used for nesting.

ADDITIONAL RODENT REMOVAL SERVICES

Best Pest and Wildlife Control also offers recurring services to keep your home protected and under warranty. In addition, Best Pest and Wildlife Control provides warranty options as well as an estimate for preventative services to keep your home free future rodent problems

Roof Rats

Also known as black rats or ship rats, roof rats are Old World rodents that were probably brought to North America on accident by early shippers and traders. They currently live throughout the world, especially in warmer areas where the proximity of the ocean keeps the climate mild. Roof rats in the United States, for instance, tend to be concentrated in the Southeast, along the West Coast, and on the Hawaiian Islands. They are often regarded as one of the most serious pest mammals because of their ability to ruin stored grain, spread disease, and damage property.

We can help you get rid of roof rat problems.

Voles

Commonly called meadow mice, voles thrive in both grasslands and mountainous areas. They can be found throughout the United States and feed on a variety of plants. Their feeding habits damage growing trees, lawns, and gardens.

We can help you get rid of vole problems.

Deer Mouse

Deer mice are some of the most abundant and adaptable creatures in North America. They are common in rural areas all across the United States and are similar in appearance to common house mice, with which they are often confused. Deer mice are responsible for causing structural damage, thwarting crop and orchard seeding efforts, contaminating food sources, and spreading harmful diseases.

Kangaroo rats

Kangaroo rats are small rodents that are found in the deserts and grasslands of North America. They are named for their powerful hind legs, which allow them to jump up to six feet in a single leap, similar to a kangaroo.

Kangaroo rats are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They have large eyes and ears to help them navigate in the dark, and they have specialized kidneys that allow them to conserve water in the arid environments where they live.

These rats have a distinctive appearance, with short fur that is often sandy or brown in color, large hind feet, and a long tail. They typically weigh less than 4 ounces and are less than 6 inches in length.

Kangaroo rats are solitary creatures and are known for their agility and speed. They are herbivores, feeding primarily on seeds and grasses, and they have a unique adaptation that allows them to extract moisture from their food, reducing their need for water.

While kangaroo rats are generally considered harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they may cause damage to property by chewing on wires, insulation, and other materials.

Bat Removal

The United States is home to over 40 bat species (Arizona and Texas have the widest variety of bat species). Bats play a vital role in the local ecosystem and can help the economy. Most American bats are insectivores. One bat can eat up to 1,000 MOSQUITOES PER HOUR(OPENS IN A NEW WINDOW).

HOW TO GET RID OF BATS

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in humane bat removal and prevention. There are six species of bats that are federally protected, and numerous states have specific regulations regarding bat removal. To avoid breaking any laws or regulations, call a professional for help when dealing with a bat problem.

Our inspector will perform a full interior and exterior inspection. Due to the dangers of exposure to guano, it is extremely important for a respirator to be worn when in an attic containing bats. After inspecting, he/she will construct a custom plan for your home to safely remove the bats and properly seal your home. Our inspector will also provide warranty options as well as educate you on our recurring programs.

If a bat is in your living space at the time of the inspection, the top priority to keep you as well as the bat safe. Bats should never be handled with bare hands. Our wildlife specialist will use gloves specifically designed to handle animals and ensure the bat is safely released outdoors.

BAT INSPECTION

Our Wildlife Specialist will search for signs such as rub marks, guano, a strong scent of ammonia, and small openings.

BAT REMOVAL PROCESS

The most effective and humane way to remove bats is by utilizing a bat valve in conjunction with a full home exclusion. A bat valve is like a one-way door. It allows for bats to exit your home but not re-enter. Since each bat removal is unique, our specialist will use or create a bat valve specifically for your home. Our inspector will determine the proper amount of bat valves to be used, but most removals only require one bat valve.

Once the bat valve is installed, all other entry points will be sealed, allowing for bats to only exit through the valve. The removal process typically takes 3-7 days. Our specialist will perform a final attic inspection before removing the valve. After removing the valve, the final entry point will be sealed, leaving your home bat-free.

Keep in mind that many states have regulations in which bat removal cannot be performed during maternity season. Call a
Best Pest and Wildlife Control Professional for details in your state.

BAT EXCLUSION

Some bats return to the same roost year after year. If you want to prevent bats from entering your home, preventative exclusion is the best precaution you can take. Because bats are not gnawers like rodents, they only utilize existing entry points to make their way into your home.

Another way to help prevent bats are to keep outside lights turned off at night. The lights will attract insects, and insects are a huge food source for bats.

Bats also drink a lot of water, so minimizing water sources around your property, if possible, is a way to prevent bats and other wildlife from being a nuisance.

However, with your home excluded, bats are great to have around. Bats will help reduce the insect population around your house, and they also pollinate many flowers and crops that we utilize every day.

Bird Control

Sometimes, birds make their way into buildings, where they can become a nuisance due to loud noises, structural damage, and messes. Birds are an important part of our natural environment, playing a key role in seed dispersal, plant pollination, and even pest removal. In the United States alone, there are 1,100 avian species. Birds are afforded considerable protection by laws, regulations and public sentiment that controls what kind of bird control can be implemented.

In these cases, it’s important to know about your options while abiding by the federal, state, and local laws regarding bird removal. Some birds require different removal strategies, otherwise, the problem might worsen. Best Pest and Wildlife Control can humanely and legally solve your bird control problems.

INSPECTION FOR BIRDS

Every bird removal begins with a thorough inspection of the area of concern. Best Pest and Wildlife Control Technicians first aim to discern the specific species causing issues for the homeowner, and whether they are federally protected. Wildlife Technicians use their knowledge of bird nests, visual identification, auditory calls, and bird behavior to identify the species in question. Their expertise in avian ecology informs them of the subsequent steps to solve the problem and prevent reoccurrence.

BIRD REMOVAL AND CONTROL

After identifying the bird species, we may start by physically removing the species in question. In rescue situations, such as chimneys or basements, birds can be released on-site if the entrance has been secured properly. Occasionally, live traps will be used, especially if flocks of birds are involved. For persistent birds and larger flocks, several advanced techniques may be applied simultaneously including spikes, mylar tape, scare tactics, and more.

The most effective method of bird control is prevention and exclusion.

BIRD EXCLUSION AND PREVENTION

Once the bird or nest has been successfully removed, Best Pest and Wildlife Control wildlife technicians will seal openings and apply caps on vents or chimneys where necessary. If a bird has occupied the area, Best Pest and Wildlife Control agents will clean any bird messes and apply sanitization agents to ensure the safety of the home.

For exterior areas such as roofs and trees, any combination of habitat modification, exclusion architecture, and repellents. The primary objective is to make the property unsuitable or unattractive to birds. We can also provide suggestions to maintain the property so birds do not continue to be problematic.

Blackbirds

The term blackbird refers to a variety of North American birds which share common characteristics such as black feathers, predominantly seed-based diets, and congregational roosting behaviors. Common types of blackbirds found throughout the United States include common grackles, red-winged blackbirds, and brown-headed cowbirds. Because these birds share many similar behaviors, they are often seen roosting and feeding in large groups together, along with other species of blackbirds and starlings.

We can help you get rid of blackbird problems.

Pigeon Control

Pigeons are abundant and look for roosting and nesting spots that resemble the rocks and cliff ledges they prefer. Having pigeons in your yard means you have gutters, chimney ledges, or balconies they enjoy for scoping out the area for food. Pigeons may also use eaves, barns, sheds, or roof vents to build a nest.

Pigeons are active all day, but even more so in the early mornings when they search for bugs, insects, flowers, grains, animal waste, and human food.

SIGNS OF PIGEONS

You will not likely find a pigeon in your home, but they make themselves known outside. The signs of pigeon activity can be easy to find. Pigeon droppings, for example, will be directly below the roosting spots. If you have multiple pigeons, the buildup of droppings can become a problem. Large amounts of droppings can be heavy and put pressure on wooden boards and beams. Eventually, wood will erode and become unstable, which can lead to cracking or breaking.

Pigeon droppings are acidic, killing vegetation and corroding parts of a home. Droppings can plug gutters, causing water drainage problems. It can grow mold spores that, when inhaled by humans, can cause respiratory issues. Pigeons are carriers of parasites that carry bacteria, like ticks and fleas. Pigeons are known to build their nests using dried droppings. If they build a nest in your ventilation system, it will create a fire hazard.

Our inspection process gives a definitive answer to whether you have a pigeon problem and, if so, how serious it is. We then create a plan to get rid of pigeons from your property.

PIGEON CONTROL METHODS

Whether you have a residential or commercial property, controlling pigeons and nuisance birds is much different than controlling other nuisance wildlife. For example, raccoons, bats, and squirrels can be easily and safely trapped. Trying to control birds with a trap is not conceivable since they can fly right back to their desired spot. Factors such as this make bird control difficult, especially for commercial property owners. One example is that pigeons and nuisance birds build nests in places dangerous for humans, like overhead signs and rafters.

Best Pest and Wildlife Control offers multiple options for controlling pigeon activity. Our technicians inspect the area where pigeons are active, determine the problem, then match it with an appropriate solution. If the problem is a pigeon getting into your chimney, we have various removal methods. If the problem is the birds are damaging garden crops, installing fencing is an option. If pigeon droppings are clogging your gutters or piling up under trees, we can install barriers and reduce the number of branches for roosting.

We seal and block access to their roosting spots. This can mean fixing broken vents or screens or installing roof barriers or netting. Mechanical repellents like spikes or porcupine wire deter pigeons from landing nearby. While trapping a pigeon using safe and humane methods is something we can do, it doesn’t always make the most sense. Pigeons are clever and will find their way back to your property. In some areas, relocating pigeons is not allowed to prevent the spread of disease.

The most beneficial control technique is to change the physical area to get pigeons to fly away on their own. Techniques we use include nets, spikes, and repellents that make it too uncomfortable for a pigeon to stay and roost.

EXCLUSION METHODS

Exclusion methods keep pigeons away because they quickly realize there aren’t any good places to roost and food is scarce. Pigeons must have about an ounce of water daily and will leave an area if water is not readily available. Repairing leaky faucets and properly draining gutters can help control pigeon behaviors. Other methods include pruning trees so they do not get too thick, which is what pigeons like. Best Pest and Wildlife Control techs can teach you additional exclusions, like the following:

• Properly store garbage in garbage cans.
• Remove bird feeders.
• Fence gardens.
• Keep lawn free of pet waste.
• Avoid throwing out leftovers close to your home.
• Sealing areas on sheds and barns.

Hire a professional wildlife expert who can remove pigeons without risking your or your family’s safety.

Sparrow

Extremely common throughout the world, sparrows live in close proximity to humans. House sparrows are not native to North America, and their presence adds to the decline of native bird populations. Sparrows regularly take up residence in and around manmade buildings, which contributes to noise pollution as well as various health hazards that result from their droppings.

We can help you get rid of sparrow problems.

Starlings

Famously released in New York City’s Central Park in 1890 as a way to introduce North Americans to the animals mentioned in the works of Shakespeare, starlings are an invasive species that now holds a strong presence totaling over 150 million birds. They live mainly in urban settings and flock in large numbers, which causes various problems for crops. Starlings can also spread a number of diseases to humans and other animals.

We can help you get rid of starling problems.

Swallows

Many types of swallows can be seen darting above open fields and bodies of water across North America, snatching up bugs and insects, or swooping down to skim the surface of ponds for a drink of water. Of the eight types of swallows found throughout the country, two come into frequent contact with humans and are considered nuisances: cliff swallows and barn swallows. Buildings and other manmade structures, such as bridges, inadvertently provide excellent nesting sites for the migratory birds, which has led to a rise in swallow populations over the past few decades.

We can help you get rid of swallow problems.

Woodpeckers

Various species of woodpeckers can be found and heard throughout the forested regions of North America. Known for their habit of drumming on trees in search of food, woodpeckers use their stiff tail feathers for balance and powerful neck muscles to drive the blows. The bird has a thick skull which allows for shock absorption, as well.

We can help you get rid of woodpecker problems.

Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are named for the warning sounds they make when threatened. While their menacing appearance and toxic bites have earned them a bad reputation, the snakes keep rodent populations in check. Still, finding them near homes is frightening and dangerous for both families and pets.

Snakes

A slithering snake can give anyone a shock. In many cases, the worst that a snake will do is give you a fright. Not only is the thought of having a snake in your home an unpleasant one, but also a snake can be a sign of another pest problem. So, it’s still worth calling in professional help to safely remove snakes.

SNAKE REMOVAL

Snake removal is a tricky task, so it’s best not to go it alone. Instead, calling in professional help can ensure that you safely remove this slithering guest from your home for good.

The process starts with a thorough home inspection. Snakes are experts at squeezing into tight holes to stay out of sight. But our professionals will find all of their hidden corners.

During the inspection, we will look for what lured the snakes into your home. Unfortunately, snakes are often a sign of a rodent infestation. So, we will carefully look for any potential rodents that could act as a food source for the snakes in your home.

After the inspection, we will carefully remove the snakes. We do this with humane trapping. Snake traps include a funnel trap or glue board (vegetable oil harmless counteracts the glue and releases the snake). If the snake hasn’t moved, we can remove it with snake tongs. No snake removal job is finished until the rodent population is under controlled. An active rodent population will continue to attract snakes into your house.

As a wildlife removal company, we will not exterminate snakes like some pest control companies might. Snakes present little danger to people and fill an essential roll within a local ecosystem.

HOW TO SPOT A SNAKE PROBLEM

Snakes themselves rarely present a safety issue to humans because snakes will not bite unless cornered or handled. Generally, a snake will simply frighten you with their simple presence.

On the whole, snakes are actually a positive feature in the ecosystem surrounding your home. After all, they eat pests like rodents, which are a harbinger of diseases that you definitely don’t want in your home.

In fact, the presence of a snake in your home often indicates a RODENT INFESTATION that can cause significantly more damage to your home than a simple snake. Since snakes often point to a bigger underlying issue, it’s a smart move to keep an eye out for these critters.

Signs of a snake in your house include shed skins and snake droppings. Due to the relatively secret nature of snakes, you might come across these signs and never see the snake itself. If you do come across a snake, don’t attempt to capture it. That’s a recipe for a snake bite.

HOW SNAKES GET INTO YOUR HOME

Snakes enter your home when the conditions inside are suitable and means of entry are available. Snakes do not create any property damage and cannot create an entrance to your home.

Generally, snakes make their way into your home on the hunt for a rodent. But sometimes, snakes will seek out the shelter of your home.

Two common entry points include any cracks in your foundation and gaps around doors. You are most likely to see a snake under your porch, in a crawl space, or in the garage. However, snakes have some outstanding climbing abilities, so it’s possible to find them in the attic.

Sealing up these entry points is the most effective snake control method to keep snakes out of your home. It can help prevent a snake problem. But it can also help you prevent rodents from coming into your home.

Fox Control

Relatives of domestic dogs, foxes live throughout the world on every continent except Antarctica. They are traditionally noted for being resourceful, intelligent, and cunning, qualities that also contribute to their status as nuisance pests. Foxes can adapt to most types of habitats found within their range, and they frequently live in areas where human activity results in the high availability of food, water, and shelter. The most common species in the United States are the red fox and the gray fox.

We can help you get rid of fox problems.

Bees

Bees are one of the oldest living species. In addition to providing humans with beeswax and honey, they pollinate about 1/3 of all crops eaten in the U.S. However, since the pests also construct nests in homes, barns, and sheds, homeowners find their presence frustrating.

Hornets

The social wasps known as hornets are found across the United States. Only young queens survive the cold season by finding protected areas indoors or under tree bark in which to overwinter. In the spring, workers are born and start expanding the hive.

Stinging Insects

Depending on the location, the formation of a beehive or stinging insect nest can be a welcome addition or cause for concern.

Some bees, paper wasps, and hornets may build nests in attics, walls, under eaves, in soffits, under porches, and in tree branches. Other insects such as yellowjackets and some bees build their nests in the ground.

Social insects such as honey bees, hornets, yellowjackets, and paper wasps can build colonies containing thousands of workers. These insects will defend their nests.

Although a simple sting may not affect you too much, 5-7% of the popular are highly allergic to stinging insects. What’s worse is if you stumble across a hidden hive in the ground or one camouflaged in a tree, you could get attacked by a swarm.

If the entire hive feels threatened, they will swarm together, fly after an intruder, and attack all at once.

We can safely remove any stinging insect nests and hives including wasps, bees , yellow jackets, hornets, and paper wasps.

Wasps

Wasps fall into two groups: social or solitary. While solitary wasps can sting and may annoy individuals with their presence, they are rarely targeted for pest control because they don’t usually appear in large numbers. Social wasps include yellow jackets, paper wasps, and hornets. These wasps gather in the thousands and are a serious threat to people.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are most active during spring and summer months as they hibernate during winter. The pests keep diets of insects, nectar, and other sugary liquids. They fly around residential areas and parks bothering people and looking for trash, picnics, and plants.

Scorpions

The scorpion is a venomous arachnid that lives in warm habitats all over America. These pests have a stinger they use to kill or stun their prey.

There are many different species, and their size, color, and appearance can vary greatly.

Spiders

These arachnids are common in houses and yards across the country. Some spiders spin webs near outdoor light sources or among boxes in basements, while others hunt for live insect prey around baseboards and closets.

Because some species are venomous, many people fear spider bites.

Ants

Ants are some of the most common and abundant pests in American homes. If left undisturbed, these social insects may create large colonies in lawns, trees, or around the home.

The pests can contaminate food, damage property, and become a nuisance to residents.

Centipedes

Centipedes are small arthropods with many legs and body segments. Some people consider them beneficial because they feed on common household pests, while others dislike their presence.

Centipedes are fast-moving and frequently appear in damp conditions.

Crickets

Crickets are insects that are found in almost every part of the world. There are over 900 species of crickets, and they belong to the family Gryllidae.

Crickets are known for their chirping sound, which is produced by rubbing their wings together. Male crickets use this sound to attract females, and the sound can also serve as a territorial warning to other males.

Crickets are typically brown or black in color, and they have long antennae and wings. They are about 1-2 inches in length, with a cylindrical body and six legs.

These insects are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They feed on a variety of organic materials, including plants, fruits, and other insects.

While crickets are generally considered harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are attracted to light and may gather in large numbers around outdoor lights or inside buildings.

Silverfish

ilverfish are small, wingless insects that are found in many parts of the world. They belong to the family Lepismatidae, and there are several species of silverfish.

Silverfish are known for their distinctive appearance, with a silvery, metallic sheen to their scales. They have long, slender bodies, and they are usually about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in length.

These insects are primarily nocturnal, and they feed on a variety of materials, including paper, glue, and textiles. They are attracted to damp and humid environments, and they can often be found in bathrooms, basements, and other areas of the home where moisture is present.

While silverfish are generally considered harmless, they can cause damage to paper goods, books, and other materials if they are allowed to infest an area for an extended period of time. They can also be a sign of other moisture-related problems in a building, such as leaks or inadequate ventilation.

Millipede

Millipedes are arthropods that belong to the class Diplopoda, which means “double foot”. There are over 12,000 species of millipedes, and they are found in many parts of the world.

Millipedes are known for their long, cylindrical bodies, which are made up of many segments. They have two pairs of legs on each segment, and they can have up to 400 legs in total. Despite their name, millipedes do not actually have a thousand legs.

These insects feed on decaying plant material and other organic matter, and they are important decomposers in many ecosystems. They are typically found in damp environments, such as under logs or in leaf litter.

While millipedes are generally considered harmless, some species can secrete a defensive fluid that can irritate the skin or eyes of humans and other animals. They can also be a nuisance if they enter homes in search of moisture or food.

Earwig

Earwigs are small insects that belong to the order Dermaptera. They are found in many parts of the world, and they are known for their distinctive pincers at the end of their abdomen.

Earwigs are typically about 1 inch in length, and they are brown or black in color. They have flattened bodies and short, leathery forewings, which they use to protect their delicate hindwings. Earwigs are primarily nocturnal, and they feed on a variety of materials, including plants, insects, and other small animals.

Contrary to popular belief, earwigs do not crawl into human ears and lay eggs. While they are capable of using their pincers to defend themselves if threatened, they are not aggressive towards humans.

Earwigs are often found in damp environments, such as under mulch or in piles of leaves. They can be a nuisance if they enter homes in search of moisture or food.

If you’re dealing with an earwig infestation, it’s important to identify the source of the problem and take steps to eliminate it. This may include removing organic material around your home, sealing cracks and crevices, and using insecticides or other control methods.

Raccoon Removal

The population of raccoons throughout the United States is on the rise(Opens in a new window), which indicates more raccoons will be looking for shelter in homes or businesses. Naturally, raccoons den in existing shelters like hollow trees, ground burrows, and muskrat houses, but with habitat loss, spaces like attics, crawlspaces, and chimneys are becoming more prevalent. These clever creatures are excellent climbers and intelligent problem solvers, making raccoon removal a daunting task for a property owner.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in raccoon removal. In order to remove and control a raccoon or family of raccoons on your property, our wildlife specialist will perform a thorough inspection to ascertain the severity of the raccoon infestation. After the inspection, they will build a custom solution to trap, remove, and seal all entry points. They will also provide warranty options as well as an estimate for preventative services.

Raccoon Inspection

The Wildlife Service Technician will look for signs such as footprints on, in, or around your home, large openings leading to the attic or crawl space, and racccoon poop.

Raccoon Trapping & Removing

Live trapping is the most effective and humane way to remove a raccoon. Direct capture is not commonly used because raccoons are a rabies vector species. If legal, a healthy trapped raccoon will be relocated with written permission. When babies are removed from an attic, our wildlife specialists seek help from a local wildlife rehabilitation center.

Exclusion and Habitat Modification

Preventative exclusion services are the most effective means to prevent a raccoon from entering your home. After raccoon removal, it is imperative to seal all entry points to prevent future entry. Ensuring you don’t create a home for raccoons outside your property will also help prevent attracting raccoons. However, habitat modification will become very important for prevention after dealing with a raccoon invasion. Frightening devices only temporarily work, and there are no toxicants regulated for raccoons.

Mole Control

Moles are small, burrowing mammals that are found throughout many parts of the world. They are known for their pointed snouts, tiny eyes, and large, paddle-like feet that are adapted for digging.

While moles play an important role in the ecosystem by aerating soil and controlling insect populations, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. Moles create an extensive network of tunnels underground, which can damage lawns and gardens, and disrupt landscaping.

At Best Pest Wildlife and Control, we specialize in humane mole control and removal. Our team of experienced professionals uses safe and effective trapping methods to remove moles from your property, and we work with you to develop a plan to prevent future mole infestations.

We also offer mole exclusion services, which involve sealing up any entry points to prevent moles from returning to your property. Our goal is to provide our clients with a safe, effective, and long-term solution to their mole problems.

Opossums

Opossums, also known as possums, are the only marsupial native to North America. They are typically around the size of a large cat, with grayish-white fur and a long, pointed nose. Opossums have a prehensile tail that they can use to climb trees and carry nesting material.

While opossums are often considered pests, they actually play an important role in controlling insect and rodent populations. They are also one of the few animals that can eat venomous snakes without being harmed.

However, opossums can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are known for rummaging through trash cans, stealing pet food, and creating dens in attics or crawl spaces.

If you’re dealing with an opossum problem, it’s important to seek professional help. Opossums can carry diseases such as leptospirosis and tuberculosis, and they may become aggressive if they feel threatened.

Skunks

Skunks are small mammals known for their distinctive black and white striped fur and the strong odor they emit when threatened. They are native to the Americas and are found throughout North, Central, and South America.

Skunks are omnivores and feed on a variety of foods, including insects, small animals, fruits, and vegetables. They are nocturnal animals and are most active at night.

While skunks are generally considered harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. Skunks are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they can cause damage to property by digging burrows and tearing up lawns in search of grubs and insects.

Squirrels

Squirrels are small to medium-sized rodents that are found all over the world. There are more than 200 species of squirrels, ranging in size from the tiny African pygmy squirrel to the larger fox squirrel and gray squirrel found in North America.

Squirrels are known for their bushy tails, which they use for balance and communication. They have sharp teeth and strong jaws that they use to crack open nuts and other tough food items. Squirrels are also excellent climbers, with sharp claws that allow them to scale trees and buildings with ease.

While squirrels are generally considered cute and harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they may cause damage to property by chewing on wood, insulation, and other materials.

Rats

Rats are medium-sized rodents that are found all over the world. There are two main species of rats that are commonly found in urban and suburban areas: the brown rat and the black rat. Both species can be carriers of diseases that can be transmitted to humans, making them a serious health risk.

Rats have sharp teeth and strong jaws that they use to chew through wood, plastic, and other materials. They are also excellent climbers, with strong legs and sharp claws that allow them to scale walls and buildings with ease.

Rats are known to be scavengers and will eat just about anything, including garbage, pet food, and even other rodents. They are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they may cause damage to property by chewing on wires, insulation, and other materials.

Flying Squirrel Removal

Flying squirrels are small, nocturnal tree squirrels that possess the ability to glide from perch to perch using webbed flaps of skin, which extend along the sides of their bellies between their hands and feet. The omnivorous rodents live in trees and sometimes eat bird eggs and small bugs like moths and beetles in addition to their regular diet of nuts, berries, and fruit.

Flying squirrels are like most wildlife. They spend most of their time searching for food, water, and shelter. Their top priority is food, so if you see flying squirrels in your trees, lawn, attic, or roof, you likely have a good food source nearby. Examples include birdseed in birdfeeders, nuts, grains, berries, mushrooms, flower buds, bugs, and fruit.

While you may only see them on rare occasions, you will likely see signs of their activity. Also, flying squirrels prefer to colonize. Where you find one, there are likely twenty or more nearby.

SIGNS OF FLYING SQUIRRELS

When Critter Control experts inspect properties for signs of flying squirrels, they look for the following:

• Chew marks on the roof’s edges, shingles, eaves, soffits, etc.
• Scratch marks on walls, trees, siding, etc.
• Damage to garden crops or flowers
• Sight and smell of droppings
• Noises like chirping and chattering

Flying squirrels will build a nest in your attic if they can. However, they prefer living in holes in trees or birdhouses. They like dense vegetation that allows them to glide from place to place. Flying squirrels are known to live in colonies. Therefore, if you see one, there are probably more. Some groups of squirrels create latrines, meaning they choose one area they will use as a bathroom. The amount of feces and urine in one spot leads to foul odors much quicker than if one squirrel is living there. In addition, squirrel feces can be a host for salmonellosis.

FLYING SQUIRREL CONTROL METHODS

Controlling flying squirrels on residential properties is much different than on commercial properties. For example, a squirrel in a chimney is much easier to remove than a squirrel living in a nest inside a gutter outside the 20th floor of an office building. When a squirrel chews through an electrical wire at your residence, your home is affected. When they chew the electrical wires of a business, the consequences can affect every office in the building and possibly on the street.

Flying squirrel control is best done by wildlife experts who understand their habits and any laws that apply to removal. Flying squirrels are generally skittish and want to avoid conflict. Deterrents can be effective. In the case of flying squirrels, motion-detecting sprinkling systems are a great deterrent. If squirrels inhabit your attic or shed, place a radio inside and let it play all day and night. The noise might scare the squirrels, and they will move on.

Most flying squirrels are not protected and can be trapped, but you must use the correct bait and trapping system. Trapping flying squirrels can take weeks or months, depending on how many colonize your property. Trapping is followed by releasing the squirrel on your property and reuniting them with their young if any were found in a nest. In most states, transporting and relocating a squirrel is illegal due to the potential spread of disease. For this reason, exclusion methods are a must for controlling activity.

EXCLUSION METHODS

An exclusion means preventing an animal from entering your home and making your property unattractive. Examples include removing birdfeeders filled with seeds, You can add a squirrel barrier to your bird feeder to keep them out, but you will still need to keep the ground below the feeder clean. Another exclusion technique is to install roof and tree barriers to prevent climbing and maintaining your lawn. In addition, seal all holes and cracks big enough for flying squirrels to enter your home, repair broken windows and doors, and secure chimney and vent openings with wire mesh or a cap.

Keep tree branches pruned so they do not make it easy for squirrels to jump onto your roof. Another trick is to place PVC pipe over outdoor electrical wires. When a squirrel tries to run across, it will spin and the squirrel will fall off. This must be done by a professional, either from the electrical company or a wildlife pro, to ensure safety for everyone.

Flying squirrel removal can be dangerous. Squirrels are known to carry lice, fleas, and ticks that carry bacterial infections they can give to you. For example, deer ticks carry the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that lead to Lyme disease. Also, squirrels may bite or scratch if they feel threatened, especially if they have recently given birth.

It is always best to call a wildlife control professional who can complete the job quickly and ensure safety for you and the flying squirrel.

Gopher

As ridiculously funny as the movie Caddy Shack was, there is some painful truth to the damage gophers wreak and how tricky gopher control can get. Gophers spend their whole lives underground, where they build complex systems of tunnels. Within these tunnels, they eat by munching on roots and pulling plants into their tunnel, mate, and raise their pups.

The four large incisor teeth gophers are notable for continuing to grow throughout their lives, as do other critters in the rodent family, such as mice and rats. However, unlike most rodents, they are not nocturnal.

HOW DO I KNOW IF A GOPHER IS IN MY YARD?

When looking out at a lawn with mounds of dirt, it may not be easy to distinguish between a gopher or mole problem. Both create extensive tunnels beneath the grass and spend most of their time underground. It will take a Critter Control specialist to identify exactly which pest is on your property.

Nice lawns make the perfect habitat for gophers. They love healthy, loose soil, so the better your lawn looks to you, the better it looks to a gopher too. Gophers love garden vegetables, bulbs, and other roots they come across. Their primary way of foraging for food is to eat through plant and lawn roots as they build their tunnels. One gopher will consume 60 percent of its body weight every day. This process can destroy the ecosystem beneath your lawn.

GOPHER DAMAGE

The unsightly mounds gophers make are just the visible damage they create. The tunnels they create weaken the ground you walk on and could cause a cave-in. And, by eating the roots as they dig, the grass will begin to die, causing brown patches in the lawn you’ve worked so hard to maintain the beauty of. Gopher problems also arise when the rodents feed on garden crops, ornamental plants, shrubs, and trees.

GETTING RID OF GOPHERS

Gopher removal is a time-consuming and resource-intensive process. Gophers are smart animals that can easily outsmart an untrained person trying to capture them. And, with extensive tunnels crossing through your lawn, it’s hard to know exactly where they are. The best way to handle a gopher problem is to call a Best Pest Wildlife and Control specialist who will arrive with the right tools and training to trap the gophers safely and mitigate any potential damage.

Ground Squirrel Control

Identifying ground squirrels requires much more than looking out the window and observing a squirrel on the ground.

Ground squirrels are much larger than other tree squirrels. Their weight ranges from 3 to 15 or more pounds. They have fur that resembles the colors of the earth to help them blend in and hide. Their tails are thinner and less bushy than most other squirrels.

As their name indicates, these squirrels mostly stick to the ground even though they are excellent climbers. Ground squirrels make shelters underground and dig extensive tunnels, which can lead to problems on properties with expensive landscaping or crop fields.

HOW TO GET RID OF GROUND SQUIRRELS FROM YARD

Working with a wildlife control expert is best for ground squirrel control and removal. For example, you will receive several options when you call to inquire how to get rid of thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Below are examples of the various options available:

HABITAT MODIFICATION

If not done correctly, modifying the habitat of ground squirrels can lead to other problems. It’s imperative to get expert advice. For example, squirrels avoid thick vegetation. Allowing areas on your property to grow will keep the squirrels away but may also attract other nuisance wildlife. Creating flooded areas will deter squirrels but may waste much-needed water. A wildlife technician can help you find the proper modifications for your site based on your specific ground squirrel problem.

REPELLANTS

Using repellants to create an invisible fence around your property can help with ground squirrel control. Scents and sounds are recommended for repellants. The smell of coyote urine makes squirrels feel threatened. However, if it is placed in the wrong location, near an excellent food source, or burrows, it will not work.

Applying different sound repellants can keep ground squirrels away. Depending on the issues you are experiencing, an expert can recommend things like predator sounds and ultrasounds. They can also help you determine if you need daytime or nighttime repellants, motion-activated, and remote control.

TOXICANTS AND BAITS

Depending on which one, toxicants can be dangerous for humans and are not recommended for getting rid of ground squirrels. Also, you must check state laws to ensure it is legal to use the chemicals. They fall into two categories: first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (FGARs) and zinc phosphide. Hiring an expert can help you choose which can be used in residential areas and for fields only and discuss price differences and effectiveness.

EXCLUSIONS AND FENCING

Exclusions are techniques specific to each animal causing a nuisance on your property. Install sturdy metal fencing above and below ground around your garden or other parts of your property to deter ground squirrels, including the thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Also, use plastic netting and row covers to protect plants. If you must feed birds, use a squirrel barrier or fill it with the food they hate.

Other exclusion tips include decluttering your yard, maintaining the lawn, installing tree barriers or netting, and keeping branches trimmed.

GROUND SQUIRREL TRAPPING

Companies such as Best Pest and Wildlife Control have a safe and humane trapping system that protects you, the squirrel, and the technician. Different types of traps include bait and cage. With both types, you must know which bait to use, where to place the traps, and how to avoid attracting wildlife other than the ground squirrel.

You must also understand local and state laws regarding trapping squirrels. Some are considered fur-bearing game animals and require hunting and trapping licenses. Because they may have diseases, it is illegal to relocate a squirrel to another area. Therefore, you must have a plan for what you will do after ground squirrel removal. Another thing to consider includes regulations regarding testing the squirrel for diseases.

A wildlife expert, like the technicians at Best Pest and Wildlife Control, can help you each step of the way, from inspection to exclusions.

Mice

The house mouse, one of the most detrimental pests in the United States, is second only to humans as the most common mammal in cities across the nation. House mice are notorious nibblers who climb, jump, and swim in order to get to their favorite foods, which are often found in HOUSES, farms, open fields, and commercial buildings. They are curious and fearless creatures that will chew through WALLS, electrical cables, and storage containers in order to get what they want.

HOW TO GET RID OF MICE

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in mice removal and control. Mouse contro begins with a thorough inspection to determine how severe the problem is. The more established mice are, the more involved the control process will be.

When approaching a rodent removal plan, the key to long-term success is to consider the entire mouse population. A few mouse traps won’t solve the problem. A comprehensive plan will include careful inspection, trapping, removal, exclusion, prevention, and clean up. The goal is to exterminate the current infestation, prevent future issues, and reclaim a sanitary environment. Here’s a breakdown of the thorough process:

With the reproductive rate of these animals sitting like a ticking time bomb in your home, a comprehensive mouse control program is necessary.

HOME INSPECTION FOR MICE

During a rodent inspection, our inspector will thoroughly inspect your attic as well as provide a full exterior home inspection. The most common signs of rodent activity are chewing, droppings, rub marks, nesting material, and small entry points.

MOUSE TRAPS & MICE REMOVAL

Based on the inspection, our wildlife specialist creates a strategic trapping plan to remove the mice found in your home. Types of traps, placement of traps, and bait used in traps determines the effectiveness of rodent trapping.

Our wildlife specialist will ensure to use the most efficient and safe removal process for your home. Though the standard trapping/removal duration is normally between 5 to 14 days, the trapping process may be longer if the rodents are well established.

MOUSE CONTROL: EXCLUSION & HABITAT MODIFICATION

Rodent exclusion is the best way to prevent mice from entering your home, but many homeowners do not protect their home until they have experienced a nuisance animal. After rodent removal, it is essential to repair any entry points on your home.

HABITAT MODIFICATION TO PREVENT MICE

Remove trees or branches close to your roof and keep your property clear of debris can help to keep your property rodent free. Rodents love clutter and will use debris for nesting material.

Keep your garage door closed as much as possible, especially at dark. Garages are often used as storage spaces, and rodents will take advantage of any food they can get to or any items that can be used for nesting.

ADDITIONAL RODENT REMOVAL SERVICES

Best Pest and Wildlife Control also offers recurring services to keep your home protected and under warranty. In addition, Best Pest and Wildlife Control provides warranty options as well as an estimate for preventative services to keep your home free future rodent problems.

Muskrats

Muskrats are large rodents that live near freshwater wetlands and feast on aquatic plants throughout North America. Classified as fur-bearing animals, muskrats are a valuable source of fur and may only be trapped during certain times of the year by licensed hunters. They are excellent swimmers able to hold their breath for up to 15 minutes and move at speeds of 3 miles per hour.

We can help you get rid of muskrat problems.

Norway Rats

Reviled as the most destructive mammal pest, Norway rats compromise the well-being of humans and cause costly damage to manmade structures. They can live as long as two years in the wild and produce as many as 20 young in that span of time. Norway rats are mostly active at night, have poor eyesight, and rely on their other senses to guide them. Actually quite intelligent, Norway rats quickly detect and avoid unfamiliar objects that show up in their chosen environment, such as traps and baits. Their rapid rate of reproduction and elusive nature make them particularly challenging to control.

We can help you get rid of norway rat problems.

Pack Rats

Woodrats, commonly called pack rats or trade rats, are found throughout the United States, Mexico, and some parts of Canada. Unlike other species of rats that have scaly tails, pack rats have furry tails. Nocturnal by nature, the pests get their common name from their habit of collecting nonfood items and storing them in a larder near their nests.

We can help you get rid of pack rat problems.

Prairie Dog

Included in the same family as squirrels, chipmunks, and marmots, prairie dogs stick to the ground and prefer to live in open grasslands in order to keep track of potential predators. The animals gain shelter from harsh elements and predators by digging extensive underground tunnel systems. The existence of prairie dogs is instrumental in the survival of other prairie animals, like snakes, and owls, who also utilize prairie dog burrows for shelter.

Rodents

Between 1,000 and 2,000 species of rodents exist on every continent around the world except Antarctica. All types of rodents share the characteristic feature of large, ever-growing front teeth. Most are small mammals that feed primarily on plants, though some rodents will eat practically anything.

In places where humans live, rodents are often considered pests because they contaminate food, damage houses, and spread diseases.

The most common rodents we find to be a nuisance are mice, rats, and squirrels.

Rodent Control

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in rodent removal and control. Rodent removal begins with a thorough inspection to determine how severe the problem is. The more established rodents are, the more involved the removal process will be. After inspecting, our wildlife specialist will build a custom solution to trap, remove, and seal all entry points.

Home Inspection for Rodents

During a rodent inspection, our inspector will thoroughly inspect your attic as well as provide a full exterior home inspection. The most common signs of rodent activity are chewing, droppings, rub marks, nesting material, and small entry points.

RODENT TRAPPING & REMOVAL

Based on the inspection, our wildlife specialist creates a strategic trapping plan to remove the rodents found in your home. Types of traps, placement of traps, and bait used in traps determines the effectiveness of rodent trapping.

Our wildlife specialist will ensure to use the most efficient and safe removal process for your home. Though the standard trapping/removal duration is normally between 5 to 14 days, the trapping process may be longer if the rodents are well established.

RODENT EXCLUSION: LONG-LASTING CONTROL

Rodent exclusion is the best way to prevent rodents from entering your home, but many homeowners do not protect their home until they have experienced a nuisance animal. After rodent removal, it is essential to repair any entry points on your home. Rodents leave pheromone trails, and other rodents quickly utilize those scent trails.

HABITAT MODIFICATION TO PREVENT RODENTS

Remove trees or branches close to your roof and keep your property clear of debris can help to keep your property rodent free. Rodents love clutter and will use debris for nesting material.

Keep your garage door closed as much as possible, especially at dark. Garages are often used as storage spaces, and rodents will take advantage of any food they can get to or any items that can be used for nesting.

ADDITIONAL RODENT REMOVAL SERVICES

Best Pest and Wildlife Control also offers recurring services to keep your home protected and under warranty. In addition, Best Pest and Wildlife Control provides warranty options as well as an estimate for preventative services to keep your home free future rodent problems

Roof Rats

Also known as black rats or ship rats, roof rats are Old World rodents that were probably brought to North America on accident by early shippers and traders. They currently live throughout the world, especially in warmer areas where the proximity of the ocean keeps the climate mild. Roof rats in the United States, for instance, tend to be concentrated in the Southeast, along the West Coast, and on the Hawaiian Islands. They are often regarded as one of the most serious pest mammals because of their ability to ruin stored grain, spread disease, and damage property.

We can help you get rid of roof rat problems.

Voles

Commonly called meadow mice, voles thrive in both grasslands and mountainous areas. They can be found throughout the United States and feed on a variety of plants. Their feeding habits damage growing trees, lawns, and gardens.

We can help you get rid of vole problems.

Deer Mouse

Deer mice are some of the most abundant and adaptable creatures in North America. They are common in rural areas all across the United States and are similar in appearance to common house mice, with which they are often confused. Deer mice are responsible for causing structural damage, thwarting crop and orchard seeding efforts, contaminating food sources, and spreading harmful diseases.

Kangaroo rats

Kangaroo rats are small rodents that are found in the deserts and grasslands of North America. They are named for their powerful hind legs, which allow them to jump up to six feet in a single leap, similar to a kangaroo.

Kangaroo rats are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They have large eyes and ears to help them navigate in the dark, and they have specialized kidneys that allow them to conserve water in the arid environments where they live.

These rats have a distinctive appearance, with short fur that is often sandy or brown in color, large hind feet, and a long tail. They typically weigh less than 4 ounces and are less than 6 inches in length.

Kangaroo rats are solitary creatures and are known for their agility and speed. They are herbivores, feeding primarily on seeds and grasses, and they have a unique adaptation that allows them to extract moisture from their food, reducing their need for water.

While kangaroo rats are generally considered harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are attracted to areas where they can find food and shelter, and they may cause damage to property by chewing on wires, insulation, and other materials.

Bat Removal

The United States is home to over 40 bat species (Arizona and Texas have the widest variety of bat species). Bats play a vital role in the local ecosystem and can help the economy. Most American bats are insectivores. One bat can eat up to 1,000 MOSQUITOES PER HOUR(OPENS IN A NEW WINDOW).

HOW TO GET RID OF BATS

Best Pest and Wildlife Control specializes in humane bat removal and prevention. There are six species of bats that are federally protected, and numerous states have specific regulations regarding bat removal. To avoid breaking any laws or regulations, call a professional for help when dealing with a bat problem.

Our inspector will perform a full interior and exterior inspection. Due to the dangers of exposure to guano, it is extremely important for a respirator to be worn when in an attic containing bats. After inspecting, he/she will construct a custom plan for your home to safely remove the bats and properly seal your home. Our inspector will also provide warranty options as well as educate you on our recurring programs.

If a bat is in your living space at the time of the inspection, the top priority to keep you as well as the bat safe. Bats should never be handled with bare hands. Our wildlife specialist will use gloves specifically designed to handle animals and ensure the bat is safely released outdoors.

BAT INSPECTION

Our Wildlife Specialist will search for signs such as rub marks, guano, a strong scent of ammonia, and small openings.

BAT REMOVAL PROCESS

The most effective and humane way to remove bats is by utilizing a bat valve in conjunction with a full home exclusion. A bat valve is like a one-way door. It allows for bats to exit your home but not re-enter. Since each bat removal is unique, our specialist will use or create a bat valve specifically for your home. Our inspector will determine the proper amount of bat valves to be used, but most removals only require one bat valve.

Once the bat valve is installed, all other entry points will be sealed, allowing for bats to only exit through the valve. The removal process typically takes 3-7 days. Our specialist will perform a final attic inspection before removing the valve. After removing the valve, the final entry point will be sealed, leaving your home bat-free.

Keep in mind that many states have regulations in which bat removal cannot be performed during maternity season. Call a
Best Pest and Wildlife Control Professional for details in your state.

BAT EXCLUSION

Some bats return to the same roost year after year. If you want to prevent bats from entering your home, preventative exclusion is the best precaution you can take. Because bats are not gnawers like rodents, they only utilize existing entry points to make their way into your home.

Another way to help prevent bats are to keep outside lights turned off at night. The lights will attract insects, and insects are a huge food source for bats.

Bats also drink a lot of water, so minimizing water sources around your property, if possible, is a way to prevent bats and other wildlife from being a nuisance.

However, with your home excluded, bats are great to have around. Bats will help reduce the insect population around your house, and they also pollinate many flowers and crops that we utilize every day.

Bird Control

Sometimes, birds make their way into buildings, where they can become a nuisance due to loud noises, structural damage, and messes. Birds are an important part of our natural environment, playing a key role in seed dispersal, plant pollination, and even pest removal. In the United States alone, there are 1,100 avian species. Birds are afforded considerable protection by laws, regulations and public sentiment that controls what kind of bird control can be implemented.

In these cases, it’s important to know about your options while abiding by the federal, state, and local laws regarding bird removal. Some birds require different removal strategies, otherwise, the problem might worsen. Best Pest and Wildlife Control can humanely and legally solve your bird control problems.

INSPECTION FOR BIRDS

Every bird removal begins with a thorough inspection of the area of concern. Best Pest and Wildlife Control Technicians first aim to discern the specific species causing issues for the homeowner, and whether they are federally protected. Wildlife Technicians use their knowledge of bird nests, visual identification, auditory calls, and bird behavior to identify the species in question. Their expertise in avian ecology informs them of the subsequent steps to solve the problem and prevent reoccurrence.

BIRD REMOVAL AND CONTROL

After identifying the bird species, we may start by physically removing the species in question. In rescue situations, such as chimneys or basements, birds can be released on-site if the entrance has been secured properly. Occasionally, live traps will be used, especially if flocks of birds are involved. For persistent birds and larger flocks, several advanced techniques may be applied simultaneously including spikes, mylar tape, scare tactics, and more.

The most effective method of bird control is prevention and exclusion.

BIRD EXCLUSION AND PREVENTION

Once the bird or nest has been successfully removed, Best Pest and Wildlife Control wildlife technicians will seal openings and apply caps on vents or chimneys where necessary. If a bird has occupied the area, Best Pest and Wildlife Control agents will clean any bird messes and apply sanitization agents to ensure the safety of the home.

For exterior areas such as roofs and trees, any combination of habitat modification, exclusion architecture, and repellents. The primary objective is to make the property unsuitable or unattractive to birds. We can also provide suggestions to maintain the property so birds do not continue to be problematic.

Blackbirds

The term blackbird refers to a variety of North American birds which share common characteristics such as black feathers, predominantly seed-based diets, and congregational roosting behaviors. Common types of blackbirds found throughout the United States include common grackles, red-winged blackbirds, and brown-headed cowbirds. Because these birds share many similar behaviors, they are often seen roosting and feeding in large groups together, along with other species of blackbirds and starlings.

We can help you get rid of blackbird problems.

Pigeon Control

Pigeons are abundant and look for roosting and nesting spots that resemble the rocks and cliff ledges they prefer. Having pigeons in your yard means you have gutters, chimney ledges, or balconies they enjoy for scoping out the area for food. Pigeons may also use eaves, barns, sheds, or roof vents to build a nest.

Pigeons are active all day, but even more so in the early mornings when they search for bugs, insects, flowers, grains, animal waste, and human food.

SIGNS OF PIGEONS

You will not likely find a pigeon in your home, but they make themselves known outside. The signs of pigeon activity can be easy to find. Pigeon droppings, for example, will be directly below the roosting spots. If you have multiple pigeons, the buildup of droppings can become a problem. Large amounts of droppings can be heavy and put pressure on wooden boards and beams. Eventually, wood will erode and become unstable, which can lead to cracking or breaking.

Pigeon droppings are acidic, killing vegetation and corroding parts of a home. Droppings can plug gutters, causing water drainage problems. It can grow mold spores that, when inhaled by humans, can cause respiratory issues. Pigeons are carriers of parasites that carry bacteria, like ticks and fleas. Pigeons are known to build their nests using dried droppings. If they build a nest in your ventilation system, it will create a fire hazard.

Our inspection process gives a definitive answer to whether you have a pigeon problem and, if so, how serious it is. We then create a plan to get rid of pigeons from your property.

PIGEON CONTROL METHODS

Whether you have a residential or commercial property, controlling pigeons and nuisance birds is much different than controlling other nuisance wildlife. For example, raccoons, bats, and squirrels can be easily and safely trapped. Trying to control birds with a trap is not conceivable since they can fly right back to their desired spot. Factors such as this make bird control difficult, especially for commercial property owners. One example is that pigeons and nuisance birds build nests in places dangerous for humans, like overhead signs and rafters.

Best Pest and Wildlife Control offers multiple options for controlling pigeon activity. Our technicians inspect the area where pigeons are active, determine the problem, then match it with an appropriate solution. If the problem is a pigeon getting into your chimney, we have various removal methods. If the problem is the birds are damaging garden crops, installing fencing is an option. If pigeon droppings are clogging your gutters or piling up under trees, we can install barriers and reduce the number of branches for roosting.

We seal and block access to their roosting spots. This can mean fixing broken vents or screens or installing roof barriers or netting. Mechanical repellents like spikes or porcupine wire deter pigeons from landing nearby. While trapping a pigeon using safe and humane methods is something we can do, it doesn’t always make the most sense. Pigeons are clever and will find their way back to your property. In some areas, relocating pigeons is not allowed to prevent the spread of disease.

The most beneficial control technique is to change the physical area to get pigeons to fly away on their own. Techniques we use include nets, spikes, and repellents that make it too uncomfortable for a pigeon to stay and roost.

EXCLUSION METHODS

Exclusion methods keep pigeons away because they quickly realize there aren’t any good places to roost and food is scarce. Pigeons must have about an ounce of water daily and will leave an area if water is not readily available. Repairing leaky faucets and properly draining gutters can help control pigeon behaviors. Other methods include pruning trees so they do not get too thick, which is what pigeons like. Best Pest and Wildlife Control techs can teach you additional exclusions, like the following:

• Properly store garbage in garbage cans.
• Remove bird feeders.
• Fence gardens.
• Keep lawn free of pet waste.
• Avoid throwing out leftovers close to your home.
• Sealing areas on sheds and barns.

Hire a professional wildlife expert who can remove pigeons without risking your or your family’s safety.

Sparrow

Extremely common throughout the world, sparrows live in close proximity to humans. House sparrows are not native to North America, and their presence adds to the decline of native bird populations. Sparrows regularly take up residence in and around manmade buildings, which contributes to noise pollution as well as various health hazards that result from their droppings.

We can help you get rid of sparrow problems.

Starlings

Famously released in New York City’s Central Park in 1890 as a way to introduce North Americans to the animals mentioned in the works of Shakespeare, starlings are an invasive species that now holds a strong presence totaling over 150 million birds. They live mainly in urban settings and flock in large numbers, which causes various problems for crops. Starlings can also spread a number of diseases to humans and other animals.

We can help you get rid of starling problems.

Swallows

Many types of swallows can be seen darting above open fields and bodies of water across North America, snatching up bugs and insects, or swooping down to skim the surface of ponds for a drink of water. Of the eight types of swallows found throughout the country, two come into frequent contact with humans and are considered nuisances: cliff swallows and barn swallows. Buildings and other manmade structures, such as bridges, inadvertently provide excellent nesting sites for the migratory birds, which has led to a rise in swallow populations over the past few decades.

We can help you get rid of swallow problems.

Woodpeckers

Various species of woodpeckers can be found and heard throughout the forested regions of North America. Known for their habit of drumming on trees in search of food, woodpeckers use their stiff tail feathers for balance and powerful neck muscles to drive the blows. The bird has a thick skull which allows for shock absorption, as well.

We can help you get rid of woodpecker problems.

Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are named for the warning sounds they make when threatened. While their menacing appearance and toxic bites have earned them a bad reputation, the snakes keep rodent populations in check. Still, finding them near homes is frightening and dangerous for both families and pets.

Snakes

A slithering snake can give anyone a shock. In many cases, the worst that a snake will do is give you a fright. Not only is the thought of having a snake in your home an unpleasant one, but also a snake can be a sign of another pest problem. So, it’s still worth calling in professional help to safely remove snakes.

SNAKE REMOVAL

Snake removal is a tricky task, so it’s best not to go it alone. Instead, calling in professional help can ensure that you safely remove this slithering guest from your home for good.

The process starts with a thorough home inspection. Snakes are experts at squeezing into tight holes to stay out of sight. But our professionals will find all of their hidden corners.

During the inspection, we will look for what lured the snakes into your home. Unfortunately, snakes are often a sign of a rodent infestation. So, we will carefully look for any potential rodents that could act as a food source for the snakes in your home.

After the inspection, we will carefully remove the snakes. We do this with humane trapping. Snake traps include a funnel trap or glue board (vegetable oil harmless counteracts the glue and releases the snake). If the snake hasn’t moved, we can remove it with snake tongs. No snake removal job is finished until the rodent population is under controlled. An active rodent population will continue to attract snakes into your house.

As a wildlife removal company, we will not exterminate snakes like some pest control companies might. Snakes present little danger to people and fill an essential roll within a local ecosystem.

HOW TO SPOT A SNAKE PROBLEM

Snakes themselves rarely present a safety issue to humans because snakes will not bite unless cornered or handled. Generally, a snake will simply frighten you with their simple presence.

On the whole, snakes are actually a positive feature in the ecosystem surrounding your home. After all, they eat pests like rodents, which are a harbinger of diseases that you definitely don’t want in your home.

In fact, the presence of a snake in your home often indicates a RODENT INFESTATION that can cause significantly more damage to your home than a simple snake. Since snakes often point to a bigger underlying issue, it’s a smart move to keep an eye out for these critters.

Signs of a snake in your house include shed skins and snake droppings. Due to the relatively secret nature of snakes, you might come across these signs and never see the snake itself. If you do come across a snake, don’t attempt to capture it. That’s a recipe for a snake bite.

HOW SNAKES GET INTO YOUR HOME

Snakes enter your home when the conditions inside are suitable and means of entry are available. Snakes do not create any property damage and cannot create an entrance to your home.

Generally, snakes make their way into your home on the hunt for a rodent. But sometimes, snakes will seek out the shelter of your home.

Two common entry points include any cracks in your foundation and gaps around doors. You are most likely to see a snake under your porch, in a crawl space, or in the garage. However, snakes have some outstanding climbing abilities, so it’s possible to find them in the attic.

Sealing up these entry points is the most effective snake control method to keep snakes out of your home. It can help prevent a snake problem. But it can also help you prevent rodents from coming into your home.

Fox Control

Relatives of domestic dogs, foxes live throughout the world on every continent except Antarctica. They are traditionally noted for being resourceful, intelligent, and cunning, qualities that also contribute to their status as nuisance pests. Foxes can adapt to most types of habitats found within their range, and they frequently live in areas where human activity results in the high availability of food, water, and shelter. The most common species in the United States are the red fox and the gray fox.

We can help you get rid of fox problems.

Bees

Bees are one of the oldest living species. In addition to providing humans with beeswax and honey, they pollinate about 1/3 of all crops eaten in the U.S. However, since the pests also construct nests in homes, barns, and sheds, homeowners find their presence frustrating.

Hornets

The social wasps known as hornets are found across the United States. Only young queens survive the cold season by finding protected areas indoors or under tree bark in which to overwinter. In the spring, workers are born and start expanding the hive.

Stinging Insects

Depending on the location, the formation of a beehive or stinging insect nest can be a welcome addition or cause for concern.

Some bees, paper wasps, and hornets may build nests in attics, walls, under eaves, in soffits, under porches, and in tree branches. Other insects such as yellowjackets and some bees build their nests in the ground.

Social insects such as honey bees, hornets, yellowjackets, and paper wasps can build colonies containing thousands of workers. These insects will defend their nests.

Although a simple sting may not affect you too much, 5-7% of the popular are highly allergic to stinging insects. What’s worse is if you stumble across a hidden hive in the ground or one camouflaged in a tree, you could get attacked by a swarm.

If the entire hive feels threatened, they will swarm together, fly after an intruder, and attack all at once.

We can safely remove any stinging insect nests and hives including wasps, bees , yellow jackets, hornets, and paper wasps.

Wasps

Wasps fall into two groups: social or solitary. While solitary wasps can sting and may annoy individuals with their presence, they are rarely targeted for pest control because they don’t usually appear in large numbers. Social wasps include yellow jackets, paper wasps, and hornets. These wasps gather in the thousands and are a serious threat to people.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are most active during spring and summer months as they hibernate during winter. The pests keep diets of insects, nectar, and other sugary liquids. They fly around residential areas and parks bothering people and looking for trash, picnics, and plants.

Scorpions

The scorpion is a venomous arachnid that lives in warm habitats all over America. These pests have a stinger they use to kill or stun their prey.

There are many different species, and their size, color, and appearance can vary greatly.

Spiders

These arachnids are common in houses and yards across the country. Some spiders spin webs near outdoor light sources or among boxes in basements, while others hunt for live insect prey around baseboards and closets.

Because some species are venomous, many people fear spider bites.

Ants

Ants are some of the most common and abundant pests in American homes. If left undisturbed, these social insects may create large colonies in lawns, trees, or around the home.

The pests can contaminate food, damage property, and become a nuisance to residents.

Centipedes

Centipedes are small arthropods with many legs and body segments. Some people consider them beneficial because they feed on common household pests, while others dislike their presence.

Centipedes are fast-moving and frequently appear in damp conditions.

Crickets

Crickets are insects that are found in almost every part of the world. There are over 900 species of crickets, and they belong to the family Gryllidae.

Crickets are known for their chirping sound, which is produced by rubbing their wings together. Male crickets use this sound to attract females, and the sound can also serve as a territorial warning to other males.

Crickets are typically brown or black in color, and they have long antennae and wings. They are about 1-2 inches in length, with a cylindrical body and six legs.

These insects are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They feed on a variety of organic materials, including plants, fruits, and other insects.

While crickets are generally considered harmless, they can become a nuisance when they invade residential or commercial properties. They are attracted to light and may gather in large numbers around outdoor lights or inside buildings.

Silverfish

ilverfish are small, wingless insects that are found in many parts of the world. They belong to the family Lepismatidae, and there are several species of silverfish.

Silverfish are known for their distinctive appearance, with a silvery, metallic sheen to their scales. They have long, slender bodies, and they are usually about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in length.

These insects are primarily nocturnal, and they feed on a variety of materials, including paper, glue, and textiles. They are attracted to damp and humid environments, and they can often be found in bathrooms, basements, and other areas of the home where moisture is present.

While silverfish are generally considered harmless, they can cause damage to paper goods, books, and other materials if they are allowed to infest an area for an extended period of time. They can also be a sign of other moisture-related problems in a building, such as leaks or inadequate ventilation.

Millipede

Millipedes are arthropods that belong to the class Diplopoda, which means “double foot”. There are over 12,000 species of millipedes, and they are found in many parts of the world.

Millipedes are known for their long, cylindrical bodies, which are made up of many segments. They have two pairs of legs on each segment, and they can have up to 400 legs in total. Despite their name, millipedes do not actually have a thousand legs.

These insects feed on decaying plant material and other organic matter, and they are important decomposers in many ecosystems. They are typically found in damp environments, such as under logs or in leaf litter.

While millipedes are generally considered harmless, some species can secrete a defensive fluid that can irritate the skin or eyes of humans and other animals. They can also be a nuisance if they enter homes in search of moisture or food.

Earwig

Earwigs are small insects that belong to the order Dermaptera. They are found in many parts of the world, and they are known for their distinctive pincers at the end of their abdomen.

Earwigs are typically about 1 inch in length, and they are brown or black in color. They have flattened bodies and short, leathery forewings, which they use to protect their delicate hindwings. Earwigs are primarily nocturnal, and they feed on a variety of materials, including plants, insects, and other small animals.

Contrary to popular belief, earwigs do not crawl into human ears and lay eggs. While they are capable of using their pincers to defend themselves if threatened, they are not aggressive towards humans.

Earwigs are often found in damp environments, such as under mulch or in piles of leaves. They can be a nuisance if they enter homes in search of moisture or food.

If you’re dealing with an earwig infestation, it’s important to identify the source of the problem and take steps to eliminate it. This may include removing organic material around your home, sealing cracks and crevices, and using insecticides or other control methods.