Winterizing Your Home Against Unwanted Critters in Indiana

Posted on December 21, 2023 by modernwild

Today marks the first day of winter in Indiana, and it’s not just the humans who are looking for a warm refuge – nuisance animals are too. They might seem harmless, but these unwanted critters can wreak havoc on your property. Raccoons, mice, squirrels, and other creatures may seek warmth and shelter within your walls, causing structural damage and health risks. But fear not!

This blog post will guide you through the essential steps of winterizing your home against unwelcome wildlife. We will delve into effective animal-proofing techniques and explore professional wildlife control solutions. So, buckle up and prepare to reclaim your space this winter!

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Animal Proofing Your Home

The first line of defense against unwanted critters is to animal proof your home. This involves assessing and fortifying potential entry points and eliminating any attractants in your yard. Here are a few tips for animal proofing:

Inspect the exterior. Walk around the perimeter of your house and look for any openings that could serve as access points for wildlife. Check for gaps in siding, holes in the roof, or cracks in the foundation. Also, make sure your chimney and vents are securely covered with mesh screens.

Seal small openings. Even a tiny crack can provide entry for mice and other small animals. Use caulk or steel wool to seal any openings you find on your exterior walls.

Secure trashcans. Raccoons and other animals are always on the lookout for food sources, so make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids. Consider investing in animal-proof containers or storing bins in a secure shed.

Eliminate potential nesting sites. Keep your yard tidy by removing any piles of leaves, wood, or debris that could serve as a cozy hiding spot for animals.

Prune trees and shrubs. Trim branches that hang close to your house, as they can provide easy access for squirrels and other climbing critters.

By implementing these simple measures, you can greatly reduce the chances of wildlife finding their way into your home.

Professional Wildlife Control

If you’re dealing with a persistent or more significant wildlife problem, it may be time to call in the professionals. Wildlife control experts have the knowledge and tools to safely and humanely remove animals from your property. They also offer preventative measures to ensure that critters don’t return in the future. Here are some services they may provide:

Inspection: A professional will thoroughly inspect your home, identify potential entry points, and determine the severity of your infestation.

Removal: Using humane techniques, they will remove any wildlife from your home and relocate them to a suitable habitat.

Exclusion: To prevent future infestations, professionals can install barriers and exclusion devices to keep animals out of your home.

Cleanup and Sanitation: If animals have been living in your home, professionals can clean and sanitize the affected areas to eliminate any health risks.

Consultation: Wildlife control experts can offer advice on how to animal-proof your home and make recommendations for keeping critters away.

Winterizing Tips for Specific Animals

Different types of animals may require different strategies for weatherization in winter. Here are some tips for dealing with specific nuisance species in Indiana:

Raccoons: Raccoons are clever critters that are known for their ability to find their way into homes. Make sure all exterior openings, including chimneys, are tightly sealed. Also, secure your garbage cans and don’t leave pet food outside.

Mice: These tiny rodents can squeeze through even the smallest of openings. Seal all cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior and keep food stored in airtight containers.

Squirrels: Squirrels are agile climbers, so they can easily access your roof through overhanging tree branches. Keep trees trimmed back from your house and use metal flashing to block any openings around the roof line.

Bats: To prevent bats from roosting in your attic, install mesh screens over vents and seal any gaps in your roof line.

Remember, when dealing with wildlife, it’s always best to consult with a professional wildlife removal and control company before attempting any DIY measures. They have the expertise to handle animals safely and effectively.

Bottom Line

Winterizing your home against unwanted critters is an essential step in protecting your property and ensuring the safety of you and your family. By following these tips and enlisting the help of professionals when needed, you can prevent animal infestations and enjoy a peaceful winter season in Indiana. Don’t let these pesky critters ruin your holiday spirit – take action now to animal-proof your home! So, bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and get started on preparing your home for a critter-free winter.

Do you deal with nuisance animal problems every winter? Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for safe and effective animal proofing and removal services for all types of wildlife in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial customers.

Indiana’s Wildlife Problems: How They Affect the Environment and Communities

Posted on October 30, 2023 by modernwild

Indiana, a state known for its diverse ecology, is home to a wide array of wildlife species. However, their co-existence with human communities often leads to complex challenges. Wildlife control and removal become a necessity when these creatures become a nuisance or pose a threat to the environment and communities.

This blog post delves into these issues, exploring the environmental and communal implications of wildlife problems in Indiana and examining viable solutions that strike a balance between human welfare and wildlife conservation. Stay with us as we navigate through these intricate environmental dynamics.

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Indiana’s Wildlife: A Rich Biodiversity

Indiana boasts a rich and diverse wildlife population, housing over 270 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The state has an abundance of forests, wetlands, lakes, and rivers that provide an ideal habitat for these creatures. Among the most notable are white-tailed deer, raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and rabbits. The state is also home to several protected species, such as bald eagles, wild turkeys, and Indiana bats. However, this biodiversity also poses unique challenges for co-existence with human communities.

The Environmental Impact of Wildlife Problems

The encroachment of human settlements into natural habitats has led to increased interactions between humans and wildlife. This, in turn, has resulted in various environmental challenges. One significant issue is the disruption of natural ecosystems by invasive species. These are non-native animals that thrive in their new environment at the expense of native species. In Indiana, the most prevalent invasive species include feral pigs, European starlings, and mute swans.

Moreover, as urbanization continues to expand, wildlife struggles to find suitable habitats, leading to competition for resources. This leads to a decline in population numbers and even the extinction of some species. The loss of biodiversity can have severe consequences on the environment, disrupting natural processes such as pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control.

Wildlife Problems and Human Communities

Nuisance animal problems also have a significant impact on human communities. One of the most pressing concerns is public safety. As wildlife populations increase, so do encounters between them and humans. This can be especially problematic when dealing with potentially dangerous animals such as bears, coyotes, or even venomous snakes.

Another issue is property damage caused by wildlife. Squirrels and raccoons are known to cause damage to homes and gardens, while deer and geese can damage crops. This not only leads to financial losses for homeowners and farmers but also disrupts the balance of ecosystems.

Moreover, nuisance wildlife problems can have negative effects on human health. Raccoons, bats, and skunks are known carriers of diseases that can be transmitted to humans through bites or contact with their feces. Additionally, the presence of wildlife can attract other pests, such as ticks and fleas, which can also pose health risks.

Finding Solutions: Wildlife Removal and Control

To address these challenges, it is crucial to find solutions that mitigate the negative impacts of wildlife while promoting coexistence. One approach is wildlife removal, where trained professionals trap and relocate animals causing problems. This method ensures the safety of both humans and animals, as well as prevents harm to the environment.

Another solution is implementing wildlife control measures, such as installing deterrents or modifying habitats to make them less attractive for certain species. For example, using fencing to keep out deer or placing screens on chimneys to prevent raccoons from entering homes.

Furthermore, education and awareness play a crucial role in minimizing wildlife problems. By understanding how to coexist with wildlife and taking preventative measures, individuals can reduce potential conflicts.

The Takeaway

Indiana’s diverse wildlife population enriches the state’s environment and communities. However, it also presents unique challenges that require careful considerations and solutions. By addressing these issues proactively through methods such as wildlife removal, control, and education, we can promote responsible coexistence and protect the environment for future generations. Let’s work together to find a balance between human needs and wildlife conservation in Indiana.

If you are dealing with nuisance animals on or around your property, act now before the damages can pile up. Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for prompt and professional 24 hour critter control in Indianapolis, Indiana for moles, beavers, bats, raccoons, squirrels, birds, and more.

An In-Depth Look at Wildlife Removal Techniques

Posted on August 17, 2023 by modernwild

Wildlife control involves much more than simply removing an unwanted animal from your property. It requires a careful balance of human safety, animal welfare, and respect for the environment. In this in-depth look at wildlife removal techniques, we will delve into the various methods utilized by professionals in the field, from humane trapping to habitat modification.

We will explore how these techniques are implemented to ensure safety for all parties involved, and how they contribute to a broader strategy of wildlife control. Whether your unwelcome visitor is a raccoon, a snake, or a flock of pigeons, understanding these techniques can provide valuable insights into resolving your wildlife issues effectively and humanely.

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Top Wildlife Removal Techniques

Humane Trapping

Humane trapping is the most common method used in wildlife control. It involves using a trap to capture an animal without causing it injury or discomfort. The traps vary in size and design, but they all have one thing in common: bait is used to lure the animal inside. Common baits include fruits, vegetables, fish, and eggs. Once the animal is captured, it can either be relocated or euthanized in a humane manner.

Humane trapping may be used to capture any number of animals, including raccoons, opossums, squirrels, skunks, and birds. It’s important to use the right trap for the job; for example, small mammals such as mice and voles require smaller traps than larger mammals like raccoons. Additionally, the trap must be placed in an area where the animal is likely to find it – baiting should never be done indiscriminately.

*Animal trapping should only be carried out by a licensed and insured wildlife control operator. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill woodland wildlife in Indiana. You could get injured or face civil and criminal penalties.

Habitat Modification

Habitat modification is another effective method of wildlife control for nuisance animal problems. This involves altering an animal’s environment so that it no longer has access to food, water, or shelter. For example, if a raccoon is living in your attic, you can install screening over the vents and chimneys to prevent it from accessing the area. You could also block off access points on the roof, remove accessible food sources (such as bird feeders), and ensure that garbage cans are securely sealed.

Habitat modification can also be used to discourage animals from returning. This might involve installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers, trimming back overhanging trees and brush, or erecting a fence around the property. By eliminating attractive features of your environment, you can make it less appealing for wildlife.

Animal Repellents

Animal repellents are substances that can be used to deter animals from entering an area. They come in a variety of forms, ranging from natural products (such as predator urine or plant extracts) to synthetic chemicals. Repellents work by creating an unpleasant environment for the animal, either through smell, taste, or touch.

Repellents may be used in conjunction with other techniques, such as habitat modification or humane trapping. They can be applied directly to the area where the animal is entering or living, or they may be sprayed around potential access points. Repellents are generally safe for both humans and animals, but it’s important to read the label carefully before using them.

Conclusion

Wildlife control requires a strategic approach. By understanding the various techniques available – such as humane trapping, habitat modification, and repellents – you can develop an effective strategy for resolving your wildlife issues safely and humanely. With proper planning and implementation of these methods, you can ensure that all parties involved are kept safe while preserving the balance of nature in your area.

It’s also important to remember that wildlife control is an ongoing process. Even after you’ve removed the animal from your property, it’s essential to keep up with maintenance and repairs to ensure the problem doesn’t resurface. With proper care and vigilance, you can keep your home and environment safe for years to come.

Ready to get rid of nuisance critters quickly, and at a price you can actually afford? Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for licensed and insured animal removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Protect Your Gardens: Expert Tips for Groundhog Removal

Posted on August 7, 2023 by modernwild

Groundhogs, while charming in their own right, can wreak havoc on a well-maintained garden, turning it into a feeding ground overnight. From munching on your prized vegetables to digging elaborate burrow systems, these creatures can be a real menace, disrupting the harmony of your backyard.

As an ardent gardener, you may find yourself in a constant battle with these critters. However, fret not; this blog post is here to help! Packed with expert tips on groundhog removal, groundhog repellent methods, and effective groundhog control strategies, we aim to equip you with the knowledge you need to protect your precious gardens from these relentless foragers. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started on reclaiming your garden!

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Top Groundhog Removal Methods

The first step to groundhog control is removing the critters from your property. If you are looking to take a DIY approach, you should take note that it could be illegal in your jurisdiction. Always hire a licensed and insured wildlife control company for professional groundhog removal in order to protect yourself. There are several methods they can use, such as groundhog trapping and relocation or exclusion techniques. With trapping and relocation, the goal is to humanely capture the animal using a cage-style trap and then transport it a few miles away from your property. However, keep in mind that this method is only effective for small populations of groundhogs and may not be suitable for larger infestations.

If you are looking to take a longer-term approach, exclusion techniques may be the route to go. Exclusion involves blocking off potential entry points with fencing or covers and making the environment less inviting to groundhogs. This could involve things such as keeping outdoor areas clean, trimming back vegetation, and removing food sources that may be attracting them.

Groundhog Repellent Methods

In addition to wildlife removal methods for woodchucks, there are also repellent techniques that can deter groundhogs from entering your property. These include both chemical and non-toxic methods. Non-toxic animal repellents, such as those containing predator urine or other foul smells (i.e. putrescent egg, capsaicin oil, menthol, etc.), can be effective in chasing away groundhogs from your garden. You can also make your own homemade animal repellents by mixing these ingredients with water and applying them with a water bottle. However, keep in mind that these products are only temporary solutions and need to be reapplied regularly to maintain their effectiveness.

Non-chemical repellents, such as ultrasonic devices, motion-activated lighting, or automatic sprinklers, may also be used to repel groundhogs from your lawn and gardens. These are especially beneficial for large properties with multiple groundhog populations as they can cover a wide area and require minimal maintenance.

Effective Groundhog Control Strategies

Once you have removed the critters and implemented repellent methods, the next step is to make sure that groundhogs don’t return. This means taking proactive steps to create an environment that will not be inviting for these creatures. To do this, you should focus on maintaining your garden and outdoor areas in a way that makes them less attractive for woodchucks. This includes things such as cleaning up fallen fruits and vegetables, keeping tall grasses trimmed, and sealing off potential entry points. You should also invest in protective fencing or covers to make sure that your precious gardens are safe from these pesky critters.

In Conclusion

Woodchuck control is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a comprehensive approach, from effective groundhog removal and repellent methods to the implementation of ongoing control strategies. While the task can seem daunting at first, with the right tools, knowledge, and commitment, you can protect your garden from these relentless critters. Remember, the key lies in creating an environment that discourages groundhog infestation, ensuring that your garden remains a safe and flourishing space. Don’t let groundhogs rob you of the joy of gardening—take action today and reclaim your outdoor paradise!

Are you looking for the easiest and most affordable way to get groundhogs under control? Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for safe and effective animal trapping and removal services for groundhogs in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial customers.

10 Natural Animal Repellents That Really Work

Posted on July 12, 2023 by modernwild

Do you ever feel like your home and garden are under siege by uninvited guests? From birds to rodents, from deer to raccoons, it can seem like no matter what you do, animals just won’t stay away. You might be tempted to reach for a chemical-based repellent but before you do that, why not try some natural animal repellents instead? These non-chemical alternatives really work and they’re much better for the environment. Keep reading to learn about the top 10 natural animal repellents that will keep unwanted wildlife out of your space without harming them or the planet.

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Why You Should Avoid Chemical Repellents for Wildlife

It is important to carefully consider the methods used for wildlife control. One method that is commonly utilized is the use of chemical repellents, like scented foam, granules, and sprays. However, it is important to note that these chemical repellents can often be toxic and unsafe for both the animals and humans in the surrounding area.

The use of these repellents can harm not only the target animal but also any unintended wildlife, domestic pets, or even children that come into contact with the area treated with chemical repellents. In addition, the constant use of these repellents can also lead to a buildup of toxic chemicals in the environment which can be detrimental to all living beings. Due to such potential risks, it is crucial to consider alternative and safer solutions for humane wildlife control.

10 Natural Deterrents and Repellents for Nuisance Animals

1. Ammonia: For small critters like mice and rats, ammonia is a great deterrent. The pungent smell will keep them away without causing any harm to them. Plus, you can find it in any grocery store or pharmacy at an affordable price point.

2. Plants: Certain types of plants have strong odors that animals don’t like and other scents that are attractive to them. Planting garlic, lavender, and marigolds around the perimeter of your property is a great way to keep out raccoons, rabbits, opossums, and skunks while also adding some greenery to your yard!

3. Coffee Grounds: Believe it or not, the scent of coffee grounds keeps many common pests like rats, moles, and voles away. All you need to do is scatter some around the area where you’ve seen them, and they won’t come back!

4. Peppermint Oil: Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a quart of water and spray it around your property. This will not only keep animals away but also make your yard smell nice.

5. Clay Cat Litter: Another great way to deter small critters is by sprinkling clay cat litter in problem areas. Animals can’t stand the smell or texture, so they’ll stay far away!

6. Mothballs: Mothballs are a powerful deterrent for many types of animals. Spread them around problem areas and the animals will stay away. Just be sure to use them sparingly and keep them out of reach of children and pets as they are toxic.

7. Human Hair: Believe it or not, human hair is a great way to keep animals away from your home and garden. All you need to do is collect some hair from your barber or hairdresser, place it in mesh bags and scatter around problem areas – the smell will be enough to keep most animals at bay!

8. Fences: If all else fails, building a fence around your property can be an effective way to deter animals from coming near your home. Make sure it’s tall enough that they can’t climb over and secure it with a lock, so they won’t be able to get in.

9. Motion Detectors: For larger animals like coyotes, foxes, and raccoons, motion-activated lights or sprinklers can be a great way to discourage them from coming around. The sudden noise and light will scare them away without causing any harm.

10. Ultrasonic Devices: Finally, ultrasonic devices are another great option for keeping animals away. These high frequency sound waves are virtually harmless but are often enough to drive animals out of your yard.

Year-Round Wildlife Control at Your Fingertips!

So, there you have it – 10 natural animal repellents that really work! You don’t need to use chemical-based products when these simple solutions will do the trick. Just be sure to use them safely and responsibly and you should have no problem keeping your home and garden free from uninvited guests.

If you have a problem with nuisance wildlife, the best solution is to hire a professional critter control service. So, contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for safe and effective animal trapping and removal services for all types of wildlife in Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

11 Tips for Humanely Controlling Indiana Wildlife

Posted on January 17, 2023 by modernwild

Wildlife can be a nuisance for Indiana residents, whether the problem is raccoons rummaging through your trash cans or squirrels in the attic. But wildlife control doesn’t have to involve cruel traps and poisons. There are humane ways of controlling wildlife that don’t harm animals or endanger people. Here are 11 tips to help you safely remove wildlife from your home and keep them away:

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How to Manage Nuisance Animals Around Your Property

1. Clean Up Messes: Keeping your yard and home clean is one of the best wildlife deterrents. Get rid of food sources like pet food, bird feeders, unsecured garbage cans and compost piles that may attract wildlife.

2. Close Off Access Points: Look for any potential entryways that wildlife could be using to access your home. Install wildlife-proof doors, seal up openings around your pipes and vents, put caps on chimneys and make sure any windows are secure.

3. Use Wildlife Barriers: If wildlife is getting into specific areas of your property, try using wildlife barriers like netting or fencing to prevent them from entering those areas.

4. Try Wildlife Repellent: There are natural wildlife repellents available that can help keep wildlife away from your property. These usually contain ingredients like garlic, peppermint oil and vinegar, so they’re safe for people and animals.

5. Use Live Traps for Rodents: If you need to catch mice or rats, use humane live traps that won’t harm animals. Check your local wildlife regulations to see how to use these traps safely and legally. In Indiana, you are not allowed to trap any other kinds of wildlife without a specialized license.

6. Keep Wildlife Away From Pets: Make sure wildlife can’t access any pet food, and keep cats indoors to prevent them coming into contact with wildlife in the first place.

7. Don’t Feed Wildlife: Feeding wildlife can encourage them to stay around your property and become a nuisance. Avoid doing this, even if you do truly mean well.

8. Use One-Way Exclusion Doors: If wild animals have already made their way into your home, you can use specially designed one-way exclusion doors to let them out without letting new wildlife in.

9. Remove Wildlife Nests: If nuisance animals have built a nest on your property, it’s important to remove it to prevent any conflicts between animals and pets or people.

10. Make Loud Noises: You can scare wildlife away by making loud noises like banging pots and pans together or using a whistling or megaphone.

11. Hire Wildlife Control Services: If you need help dealing with wildlife, hire an Indianapolis wildlife control service that can provide professional assistance in removing wildlife from your property in a safe and humane way.

Be in Control of Nuisance Wildlife

By following these tips, you can humanely control wildlife around your Indiana home, keeping everyone safe and healthy. If wildlife does become a problem, remember to call Indianapolis animal removal contractors who can help safely and humanely remove nuisance wildlife from your property.

For more information about wildlife removal and control in Indiana, trust our animal removal professionals. Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for safe and effective animal removal and control in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our wildlife removal services are humane, effective, and available for both residential and commercial clients.

The Importance of Professional Wildlife Control Service

Posted on October 10, 2022 by modernwild

According to the National Pest Management Association, wildlife control service is a growing industry that helps manage animals that have become pests. These services are important because they help keep people, property, and natural resources safe from harm. Continue below to learn just how important local wildlife removal and control services are vital to the betterment of your surrounding communities, plus what to do if you are currently dealing with a nuisance pest problem on or around your property.

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Top 3 Reasons Why Indiana Wildlife Control Service is So Valuable

Enhanced Health and Safety

Wildlife control services can be used to remove animals from homes, businesses, and other structures. They can also be used to prevent animals from entering these same areas. These services are important because they can help reduce the spread of diseases, such as rabies, and protect people from attacks by wild animals.

Animal Damage Restoration and Repairs

In addition to safety, wildlife control services can also help preserve property. Animals that are not properly controlled can cause damage to buildings and other structures. They can also destroy landscaping, contaminate food and water supplies, and create hazardous driving conditions. By removing these animals from an area, local wildlife control services can help to reduce the amount of damage they cause.

Protected Natural Resources

Finally, wildlife control services play an important role in protecting our natural resources. Animals that are not properly controlled can harm delicate ecosystems and adversely affect wildlife populations. By controlling these animals, we can help to ensure that our natural resources are protected for future generations.

How to Safely Stop a Pest Problem

If you have a problem with an animal on your property, it is important to contact a professional Indianapolis wildlife control service. These services can help to keep you, your property, and our natural resources safe. Do not attempt to touch, trap, harm, kill, or even tamper with a wild animal. In Indiana, it is illegal to trap wild animals without a license. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers a trapping license for residents and non-residents who wish to trap furbearing animals on public or private property.

A trapping license allows the holder to trap beaver, coyote, deer, fox, muskrat, opossum, raccoon, river otter, weasel, and bobcat. The license costs $19 for residents and $65 for non-residents. Trappers must follow all state and federal laws when trapping animals. These laws include requirements for tagging and reporting catches, as well as minimum size and species restrictions. Trappers who violate these laws may be subject to fines and other penalties.

Are you concerned that nuisance animals are getting too close after feeding them for too long? Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for professional and humane animal trapping and removal services at the most competitive prices in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients, and a wide range of local wildlife.

Can I Keep a Wild Animal as a Pet?

Posted on September 30, 2022 by modernwild

Whether you just discovered a nest of baby birds, an orphaned baby squirrel, or a turtle out by the pond, it is important that you understand local, state, and federal laws that govern taking in wild animals as pets. Wild animals are feral, and therefore capable of aggressive, unpredictable, and/or harmful behaviors. Even a baby animal, as cute as they look, will inevitably mature into the full-grown species it is. From wildlife laws and regulations to damage, disease, injury, cruelty, and more, keeping a wild animal as a pet is an urge you and your children should strongly reconsider.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about keeping a wild animal as a pet in Indiana, plus what you can do if you are experiencing nuisance wildlife problems in or around your property.

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Animals are Closer Than Ever

Today, wildlife is closer to us than they have even been before. Due to land over-development, loss of natural habitats, and similar factors, animals like raccoons, opossum, skunks, snakes, squirrels, rabbits, and more are being pushed out of their natural environments, forcing them to look for food and shelter in urban and suburban territories. It is common to stumble across an orphaned or injured animal, like a bird or bunny, while it is also common to find animals on your property just lingering about, such as snakes, toads, and salamanders.

Although in our childhood it was common to find these little critters and keep them as pets for as long as we could keep them alive. But today, this is considered inhumane; in some cases, it is even against the law. Furthermore, wild animals are known carriers of several infectious and transmissible diseases that can infect both people and pets. Common illnesses, rabies virus, leptospirosis, Salmonella, E. coli, roundworm, distemper, Parvo, and a long list of ectoparasites (lice, mites, ticks, fleas, etc.).

Orphaned or Abandoned Animals

If you find an orphaned or seemingly abandoned animal, it is important that you leave the animal alone. If the animal is located in an area of your property that sees a lot of foot traffic or that requires lawn care, you can relocate the animal close to its nest or at the edge of your property. In Indiana, it is against the law to transport a wild animal to another property. You could face fines and similar civil penalties. When in doubt, contact a licensed wildlife control company in Indianapolis for professional animal removal service.

If you choose to move the animal to the edge of your property, be sure to wear thick utility gloves and use a shoebox and small broom or brush to gently transfer the animal into the shoebox so that you may relocate them farther away. If the animal is injured, the rule of thumb is to let nature take its course, as hard as that might pull on the old heartstrings. You may also choose to contact a wildlife rehabilitator in your area.

Injured and Baby Birds

It is very common to come across a nest of baby birds or even a single baby bird laying on the ground. Although the baby bird seems totally helpless, it is very possible that the mother is nearby and will return soon to put the baby back in the nest. If you are sure that the baby bird is orphaned or injured, and you wish to keep it or return it to health, it must be a specific species of birds. Almost all birds are state and federally protected.

The only bird species that are not protected under law are European starlings, feral pigeons, and English sparrows. If you can accurately identify the species of bird that you have found, and it is a non-protected species, you can choose to keep it, but beware, you will likely need a permit. Further beware that, birds, even baby ones, carry several diseases and ectoparasites like lice and mites. You never want to touch one with your bare hands.

Injured or Sick Bat

If you find a sick or injured bat on your property, it is important that you keep your distance. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill a bat. Some bats are federally protected by the Endangered Species Act, while others are known carriers of serious infectious diseases like the Rabies virus. Instead, contact a local Indianapolis bat removal company for professional assistance. You may also report the dead, or sick bat to the Department of natural resources by filling out a “Report Sick or Dead Wildlife” form.

Turtles

It is common for children to find a turtle and want to keep it as a pet. And this is perfectly fine, so long as you have the proper permit, or a hunting or fishing license registered in Indiana. Also, certain turtle species are protected and cannot be kept as a pet, let alone tampered with, including Eastern box turtles and Alligator Snapping turtles. However, before you agree to a wild pet turtle, understand that turtles are common carriers of salmonella bacteria.

Are you experiencing nuisance critter problems around your Indiana home or business? Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for safe and effective animal trapping and removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana.

What to Do if You are Dealing With Muskrat Problems

Posted on July 14, 2022 by modernwild

Is it a beaver? A groundhog? What is a muskrat and why are they such a nuisance? These are all the expected questions of a homeowner dealing with a nuisance muskrat problem. Continue below to learn how to get rid of muskrats safely using safe and humane methods of animal trapping and relocation.

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Muskrat Removal and Control 101

First and foremost, it is important to understand that animal removal for wildlife like muskrats is exclusively for professionals who are licensed to work with woodland critters. Although you can take matters into your own hands, there are laws governing wildlife removal and control, and the local ordinances may not permit you to do so legally.

For instance, homeowners are not allowed to poison or kill any animal on their property except for mice and rats. Killing or even tampering with a critter classified as exotic, wild, feral, or endangered, especially during their breeding season, can lead to civil and criminal penalties. Most often, homeowners are slapped with a massive fine. It is important to check with your local and state wildlife agencies, wildlife enforcement officer, or county game warden about the regulations surrounding wildlife trapping and control.

Furthermore, professional Indiana wildlife control operators retain the proper training, knowledge, resources, and equipment to safely get rid of muskrats and relocate them to a faraway habitat suited for their species. For these reasons, it is critical that you enlist your muskrat removal and control needs to a qualified authority.

Muskrat Trapping

Two-door live trap cages are the most commonly-used trapping devices for removing nuisance muskrats. These traps are designed in a way to safely capture a muskrat without harming or killing it. More advanced traps are designed for immediate carry and relocation. Your wildlife control operator will use particular types of muskrat-specific bait to attract muskrats to the traps, such as fruits and vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and apples, or even aniseed (anise). They will also know how to tactfully position the trap for the highest chances of success.

Muskrat Repellent

After your trusted wildlife control operator has successfully caught and removed the local nuisance muskrats that have been disturbing your property, you can take matters into your own hands with some animal-proofing work. Not only can you fill muskrat den holes with heavy rocks and lower the level of your pond by 2 feet in the winter, but you can also make your own, non-toxic animal repellent!

This can help abate future muskrat activity. Get yourself a large plastic spray bottle and fill it 3/4^th of the way with clean water. Then add putrescent egg, capsaicin oil, and cayenne. Spray the solution around the perimeter of your property or in areas where muskrats like to hang out. Be sure to keep children and pets away from treated areas.

Are you looking for trusted, professional assistance with nuisance wildlife like muskrats and beavers? Contact Modern Wildlife Control at 317-847-6409 for licensed and insured muskrat removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Is it a Bad Idea to Feed Local Wildlife in Winter?

Posted on January 11, 2022 by modernwild

Animals are cute. It is hard to resist the temptation to feed your backyard squirrels, birds, chipmunks, and more, especially in the wintertime when their food supplies are drastically diminished. But, beware; there is a downside to feeding local wildlife on your property, and it can really cost you.

Continue reading to learn why it’s a bad idea to feed the local wildlife around your property in the winter, plus who to call if it’s a little too late, and you already have a nuisance critter problem on your hands!

Wildlife Removal Company Indianapolis IN 317-847-6409

Why You Should Avoid Backyard Feedings

The animals are you feeding in your backyard are the same animals that become costly and invasive nuisances for other property owners dealing with wildlife tampering and intrusions. They start off cute and entertaining, but in large numbers, they can be massively destructive, plus pose certain health and safety threats to both people and pets. When you feed animals on your property, you are giving them an open invitation. Do not think that these squirrels and rabbits are clueless; they know exactly what they are doing and where opportunity lies. Years of living in urban environments have taught them these skills.

An open invitation to local wildlife says, “come to my property and do what you like.” This will teach local wildlife like squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, rabbits, birds that your house is a guaranteed spot for food. Eventually, they will want to live closer to their prime food source and begin looking for shelter in and around your property. Attic infestations are common, especially with raccoons, squirrels, chipmunks, and birds, all of which are excellent climbers.

Nuisance Critters Can Cause a Lot of Destruction

Wildlife can find shelter outside of your home or inside, depending on the available access. Raccoons are blessed with human-like paws that allow them to grasp, grip, rip, and pull, giving them easier access through doors and windows. They will also peel through old roof shingles and access attics spaces.

Squirrels, chipmunks, and birds often access interior areas of homes and buildings through the chimney. They can also enter through roof and attic vents, torn screens, and vulnerable areas in the roof and siding. Aside from attics, wall voids and crawl spaces are common nesting spots for squirrels and chipmunks.

Once animals have access, they can generate a lot of waste and even more structural damage. These damages can be unhygienic and hazardous, plus they can be very costly and invasive to repair. Fortunately, there should be professional animal damage cleanup and repair services available in your community.

Health Hazards and More

Structural damages are one thing, but nuisance wildlife can also pose several other threats, like disease, pest outbreaks, and more. Animals like raccoons, birds, and squirrels are known carriers of several infectious diseases that can affect people and pets, like Rabies, Distemper, roundworm, and more. Additionally, they can spread third-party pests, like mites, fleas, ticks, lice, and other parasites.

✨🌰 There are safe ways to feed wildlife at home, which we will discuss in more detail in our upcoming blog! Stay tuned!