Preserving the Pulse of Tennessee: Endangered Species and Conservation

Posted on April 9, 2024 by smokywildlife

Nestled within the sprawling landscapes of Tennessee, a rich tapestry of flora and fauna thrives. This mosaic of nature is essential to Tennessee’s identity, woven into its culture, history, and the very heart of the communities that call this state home. However, within this intricate web of life, certain species are facing the harrowing threat of extinction. It’s incumbent upon us to understand, appreciate, and most importantly, to protect them.

In this elaborate exploration, we’ll venture into the scope of endangered species in Tennessee’s wilderness, delineate the species that are perilously close to vanishing, expound upon the tireless efforts of conservationists, and illuminate the path for you, the individual, to lend your hand in preserving the pulse of Tennessee.

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Endangered Species in Tennessee and the Smokies

In the hills, deltas, and forests of Tennessee, there is a quiet struggle taking place. A host of plants and animals, once abundant, now teeter on the brink of extinction. Magnificent creatures such as the Indiana bat, the bog turtle, the red-cockaded woodpecker, and the cerulean warbler, who added splashes of color and intrigue to the verdant canvas of Tennessee’s landscape, are now in desperate need of our help.

The factors leading to their decline are as numerous as they are heartbreaking. Loss of habitat, pollution, climate change, and the encroachment of human activity all play their part in this silent siege. But amidst this bleak tableau, there is hope. The drumbeat of conservation is growing louder, and the call to protect our most vulnerable neighbors is becoming a resounding chorus, beckoning to all who will listen.

A Symphony of Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Tennessee is not lacking in heroes, those who champion the cause of conservation tirelessly. Organizations like the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have been at the forefront of these efforts, spearheading initiatives to restore habitats, protect critical areas, and educate the public on the importance of biodiversity.

But it’s not just the large-scale organizations that make a difference. Community groups, local schools, and passionate individuals are also instrumental in safeguarding Tennessee’s wildlife. In recent years, success stories have begun to emerge, such as the rebound of the bald eagle population, a triumph that speaks volumes about what concerted effort can achieve.

How Each One of Us Can Be the Change

The task ahead is colossal, but it’s within our grasp. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the collective effort of conservation. Homeowners can create wildlife-friendly gardens, reduce their use of pesticides, and build bat houses to provide safe roosts. The general public can support local conservation projects, report wildlife sightings, and volunteer their time.

Importantly, when it comes to co-habiting with wildlife, the keyword is co-existence. Understanding and respecting the space of these creatures is crucial. Educating yourself and others about humane ways to interact with wildlife, especially nuisance species like raccoons and squirrels, ensures that our actions do not inadvertently harm the very creatures we seek to protect.

How to Protect Your Property Against Nuisance Wildlife Threats and Intrusions

Homeowners and property owners in Tennessee can take proactive measures to protect their properties against nuisance wildlife threats and intrusions while still respecting the natural habitats of these animals. Here are a few tips to get started:

Seal off entry points: Inspect your property for any openings or gaps that could serve as entry points for wildlife, such as holes in your roof or cracks in your foundation. Seal them off to prevent animals from getting inside.

Secure food sources: Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and dispose of food waste properly. Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed out overnight, as it can attract unwanted wildlife.

Create a animal-proof garden: Plant native species that thwart wildlife, like marigolds and cucumbers. Also, avoid using pesticides that could harm animals and the environment. Remove potential shelters for small animals, such as brush piles or overgrown grass.

Hire Professionals: If you have a persistent problem with nuisance wildlife, it’s best to seek the help of a professional. They can safely remove the animal and provide tips on how to prevent further intrusions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the link between humanity and the natural world is unbreakable, a covenant that must be honored and preserved. Tennessee’s endangered species are not merely a part of the landscape; they define the rhythm of life within these environment, just as our breath defines our being.

Take up the banner of conservation and become a steward of Tennessee’s wildlife. Spread the word, take action, and together, we can secure a future where these precious species are not mere relics of our past but vibrant threads in the tapestry of Tennessee’s tomorrows.

Do you love Tennessee’s nature, but still wish to keep those nuisance critters in control? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed animal removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee and beyond. We work with many types of wildlife and serve both residential and commercial clients.

Dealing with a Dead Animal Carcass in Your Yard: A Guide to Safe Disposal

Posted on February 29, 2024 by smokywildlife

Discovering a dead animal carcass in your yard can be an unnerving and often distressing experience. The sight and smell that come with this scenario warrant immediate action, but many homeowners aren’t sure about the right steps to take. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the process of safely and efficiently handling a dead animal carcass, reinforcing the importance of prompt action for both your health and the environment.

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Why You Can’t Ignore a Dead Animal in Your Yard

Before we move on to the practical aspects of animal carcass removal, it’s crucial to understand the seriousness of the issue. Deceased animals, no matter their size, can present significant health hazards. They often carry diseases, and their remains attract a variety of pests, including flies, maggots, and larger scavengers. Leaving a dead animal to decompose in your yard not only poses immediate risks but can also contaminate soil and water sources over time.

Health and Safety Concerns When Handling Dead Animal Carcasses

There’s a laundry list of health risks associated with dead animal carcasses, from bacterial and parasitic infections to the spread of zoonotic diseases like rabies and leptospirosis. Exposure to some of these pathogens can occur through direct contact with the carcass, its bodily fluids, or contaminated surfaces. It’s not just your health at risk, either—pets that have access to the yard or other animals in the vicinity are in danger as well.

Identifying and Assessing the Situation

Your approach to handling a deceased animal will depend on a few key factors. It’s important to gauge the situation thoroughly before taking any further steps.

Size and Type Matters

The type and size of the animal will dictate your response. A small bird, for instance, may warrant a different process than a larger mammal. Identifying the animal will also help in understanding potential diseases it may carry, especially if you’re dealing with wildlife instead of domesticated pets.

Assess for Decay

The level of decomposition is a critical factor in risk assessment. A freshly deceased animal will pose fewer health hazards than one that has been decomposing for days or weeks. Knowing the state of the carcass will guide you on whether to proceed with the disposal yourself or to opt for professional help.

DIY Dead Animal Removal Techniques

If you decide to tackle the removal process on your own, safety should be your number one priority. Here are some steps to keep in mind:

Dress for Success

Before coming into contact with the carcass, it’s essential to protect yourself. Wear disposable gloves, a mask, and clothing that covers your body properly. If you have any cuts or abrasions on your skin, consider covering them with waterproof bandages.

Use the Right Tools

Put together a “clean-up kit” that includes a durable shovel, a sturdy garbage bag, and a strong cleaning solution. Use the shovel to carefully transfer the animal into the bag. Avoid any contact with your skin.

Disposing of the Remains

Once the animal is securely bagged, tie the bag tightly and place it within a second garbage bag for an extra layer of protection against leaks or odors. Promptly dispose of the double-bagged carcass in a covered trash can, or, if local laws allow, bury the remains at a good distance from any water sources or vegetable gardens on your property.

Professional Wildlife Control Services for Dead Animal Removal

Sometimes, the best course of action is to leave dead animal removal in the hands of professionals. Wildlife control services are equipped to handle the process safely, efficiently, and legally.

Benefits of Professional Help

Wildlife removal experts have the necessary training and equipment to handle dead animals without putting themselves or others at risk. They are also well-versed in local laws and regulations regarding dead animal disposal.

Choosing the Right Service

When selecting a wildlife control service, be sure to vet them thoroughly. Look for certifications, ask about their methods for handling and disposing of carcasses, and inquire about the guarantee and cost of their services.

Preventive Measures to Safeguard Your Property

The last thing any homeowner wants is to encounter a dead animal in their yard. Taking proactive wildlife control steps can minimize the chances of it happening again.

Minimizing Yard Attractions

Regularly check your yard for any potential attractors, such as accessible trash or pet food, and promptly remove them. Keep your yard clean and well-maintained to dissuade animals from establishing it as a potential resting place.

Inspections and Maintenance

Conduct periodic inspections of your property, including your fences and any potential entry points. If you know a particular species of wildlife is prevalent in your area, take extra precautions, such as securing lids on your trash cans, to avoid inviting them onto your property.

Conclusion

Dealing with a dead animal carcass is an unpleasant but at times necessary duty. By approaching the task with caution and, when needed, involving professional assistance, you protect not only yourself and your family but also contribute to keeping your community safe and healthy. Swift and appropriate action is key, and the measures taken to dispose of the animal are as crucial as those to prevent its untimely demise in the first place. With this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to face the circumstances if and when they arise, ensuring your yard remains a sanctuary of health and peace.

Are you concerned about the nuisance wildlife on or around your property? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured wildlife removal and control services in Nashville, Tennessee, and surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

FAQS About Dead Deer Removal and Deer Repellent

Posted on October 2, 2023 by smokywildlife

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on dead deer removal and deer repellent. Many homeowners and garden enthusiasts face the common problem of deer intrusion, which often results in the need for dead deer removal or the use of deer repellents.

This blog post will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about these topics, providing valuable insights and practical solutions. Whether you’re dealing with a deceased deer on your property or looking for effective deer deterrents to protect your precious flora, this guide is designed to help you navigate these challenges. Let’s dive in.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dead Deer and Deer Repellent

What are the common reasons for deer intrusion?

Deer, especially white-tailed deer, are known to be voracious eaters and can cause significant damage to gardens, crops, and landscaping. They are attracted to plants that have a high nutritional value or taste good to them, such as fruit trees, vegetables, roses, and tulips. Additionally, urbanization and development have encroached on deer habitats, forcing them to seek food sources in residential areas.

Do you have to report a dead deer?

It’s an unfortunate sight to come across a dead deer while traveling on the road, but do you have to report it? The answer is yes, it’s important to report a dead deer to local authorities. Not only does it ensure proper removal, but it also helps prevent any potential accidents on the road. Dead deer removal service is crucial as it can attract scavengers and other wildlife, which creates a hazardous situation for drivers. Remember to be cautious and report any dead deer you come across to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

Is it legal to remove dead deer from my property?

The laws regarding dead deer removal vary by state, so it’s essential to check your local regulations. In most cases, if the deer dies of natural causes or is hit by a vehicle, you are responsible for its removal. However, if the deer was killed by hunting or in a designated hunting area, it is the responsibility of the hunter to remove it. If you are unsure about the laws in your area, contact your local wildlife agency for clarification.

What should I do if I find a dead deer on my property?

If you come across a dead deer on your property, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions before attempting any removal. First, make sure that the deer is indeed deceased and not just injured or sleeping. If it’s safe to do so, approach the deer and check for signs of life, such as breathing or movement. If you are uncertain, it’s best to contact a professional dead deer removal service.

How can I prevent deer from intruding on my property?

There are several methods for deterring deer, including physical barriers, scent-based repellents, and noise deterrents. Fencing is a popular option but can be expensive and may not always be aesthetically pleasing. Scent-based repellents that mimic the smell of predators or human urine can also be effective, but they need to be reapplied regularly. Noise deterrents, such as motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices, can startle deer and ward them off your property.

Are there any natural remedies to keep deer away?

Yes, some natural ingredients may help repel deer from your property. Some homeowners have had success using homemade deer deterrent sprays made from garlic, onions, or hot peppers. Planting certain flowers and herbs, such as marigolds, chives, or lavender, can also act as natural deer deterrents. However, these methods may not work for all deer species and may need to be combined with other repellents for maximum effectiveness.

Can I use deer repellent on my edible plants?

Yes, many commercial deer repellents are safe to use on edible plants. However, it’s essential to read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Some repellents may need to be applied at specific times or washed off before consuming the plants. If you are using natural homemade remedies, it’s best to avoid spraying them directly on edible plants as they may affect their taste.

What should I do if deer continue to intrude on my property despite using repellents?

In some cases, deer may become habituated or immune to certain repellents over time. If this happens, it’s best to switch up your deterrence methods and combine different tactics. For example, you can alternate between scent-based and noise deterrents or try using a combination of natural remedies and commercial repellents. It’s also important to regularly monitor and maintain your deterrents to ensure their effectiveness.

What do I do if dead deer removal is not allowed in my area?

If the law prohibits you from removing a dead deer from your property, it’s best to contact your local wildlife agency or animal control. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely dispose of the carcass without violating any laws or posing a health hazard. It’s essential to follow the proper channels in these situations and avoid taking matters into your own hands.

Conclusion

Deer intrusion can be a frustrating and costly problem for homeowners, but there are various effective methods for dead deer removal and deer repellent available. Whether you opt for professional services or DIY solutions, always make sure to follow the laws and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the well-being of these beautiful animals. With a combination of persistence, patience, and proper deterrence, you can successfully keep deer away from your property. We hope this guide has provided valuable insights and helpful tips for dealing with dead deer removal and deer repellent.

Are you having some serious trouble with nuisance deer around your property? Got a deceased one in your yard? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured dead deer removal and deer control in Nashville, Tennessee and beyond. We also work with many other types of wildlife.

What to Do When You Find a Dead Animal in Your Yard

Posted on May 30, 2023 by smokywildlife

Finding a dead animal in your yard can be an unpleasant experience. Not only is it unsightly, but you may also feel uneasy about the potential health risks associated with a carcass left to rot in your garden space. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to safely and quickly remove the animal from your property. Whether it’s a small rodent or larger mammal like a deer, this guide will provide you with tips for getting rid of the deceased creature as well as advice on preventing future incidents. Continue reading to learn more about dead animal removal and how to keep wildlife away from your home!

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Found a Dead Animal in the Backyard? Consider Your Safety First

Dead animal carcasses can pose significant hazards to both human beings and animals. The presence of a dead animal can attract parasites such as fleas, ticks and bacteria that cause illnesses in humans. The carcasses can also provide food sources for predators who might prey on pets and livestock. Such predators vary depending on the region, but here in Tennessee, they can include Black bears, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, hawks, and even venomous snakes like Timber Rattlesnakes and Copperheads. These dangers and hazards are not always immediately apparent, so it is important to approach dead animal carcasses with caution.

People should wear gloves and protective clothing when handling the remains and dispose of them safely to avoid the spread of diseases. Dead animal carcasses should be reported to the authorities for proper removal. It’s the best way to guarantee a safe environment for both humans and animals.

Your Options for Dead Animal Removal

■ Contact a Wildlife Removal Service

When you first find a dead animal in your yard, it’s important to assess the situation and determine if the carcass requires immediate removal. If there is no sign of decay or decomposition, then contact a local Nashville wildlife removal company for dead animal removal service. These licensed professionals can safely dispose of the animal using proper security protocols and will also be able to identify its species so that you know whether or not it could pose any health risks.

■ Bury the Carcass

If the animal has been deceased for some time, then you may need to consider other options such as burying the body yourself or calling your local animal control department for assistance. Before taking on either of these tasks, make sure you are well-equipped with the necessary protective gear including gloves, boots, coveralls, and face masks. Once the carcass has been safely disposed of, it’s important to take steps to prevent future wildlife deaths on your property.

■ Animal Proof Your Property

To minimize the chance of another dead animal appearing in your yard, be sure to trim back any shrubs or trees that may attract animals, keep pet food indoors, and pick up fallen fruit regularly. You may also want to consider installing motion-activated lights around your property as this can help deter nighttime visitors. If you find multiple dead animals in one area, there is likely a source of food nearby attracting them so make sure to remove any potential attractants from your yard.

Protect Yourself Against Dead Animal Encounters

So, when you find a dead animal in your yard it’s important to address the situation quickly and safely. If the carcass is fresh, contact a wildlife removal company for assistance. Otherwise, consider burying it yourself or contacting animal control. To prevent future incidents, make sure to trim back shrubs, keep pet food indoors, and install motion-activated lights around your property. Following these steps will ensure that your yard remains safe and free from any dead animals in the future!

Got a dead animal on or around your property that’s giving you pause for concern? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured dead animal removal in Nashville, Tennessee and beyond. We also work with many types of wildlife and serve both residential and commercial clients.

How to Eliminate Dead Animal Odor in Your House

Posted on September 14, 2022 by smokywildlife

There are many types of nuisance wildlife in Tennessee, but some are more prone to infesting our interior spaces and eventually biting the dust. Animals like raccoons, opossums, birds, squirrels, and rodents are notorious for getting inside and getting stuck; or simply living out the remainder of their lives inside your home or business.

Nuisance critters like these generally seek out shelter in residential and commercial settings, finding their way inside roof vents, wall voids, crawlspaces, attics, and beneath porches, decks, and stoops. Once there, they generate an unthinkable mess with their hair oils, urine, feces, rotting food scraps, nesting, and destructive habits. But there are some things worse than an animal infestation mess, and that is the smell of a dead animal carcass.

After hiring a certified Nashville wildlife removal company to get rid of a dead animal, you can opt for infestation cleanup and decontamination services to treat the affected area. However, it is quite common for dead animal odors, as pungent as they are, to linger well after dead animal cleanup services. This is especially true for cases of multiple carcasses.

If this sounds like your current dilemma, continue reading below to learn what you can do to abate these odors until they have dissipated for good.

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Household Remedies for Treating Dead Animal Smells

When animals die in or around your home, the smell can be virtually impossible to tolerate, especially right after dead animal removal service. Cleanup and decontamination treatments can only do so much when it comes to eliminating dead animal smells, which is why it is important for you to treat post cleanup lingering odors with basic household remedies.

You wouldn’t think that a dead skunk under the deck or a groundhog under the stoop would generate enough decay odor to seep inside the property, but they can. Even dead animals outside can cause lingering death odors inside your home or business if they are in close enough proximity.

Fortunately, there are several products and remedies you can implement that will help reduce the pungency and make your indoor spaces tolerable until the smell stops naturally. These dead animal smell hacks will not grant instant gratification, nor 100% eliminate the dead animal odor in your home. They will, however, take the edge off. But if the smell is faint, they can mask it entirely.

Dead Animal Odor Removal Granules

For dead animals that expire in non-traffic areas of a home, like crawlspaces, attics, and wall voids, dead animal odor removal granules are a great way to go. These are chemical-free and all-natural odor absorbing granules that you simply scatter over the affected area. These also prevent bacterial hazard and pest infestations.

Odor Eliminating Fogging Cans

Odor control fogging products are an effective way to eliminate the toughest of dead animal smells. Also known as “odor bombs” or “eliminating foggers”, these products are automated. All you have to do is push a button; and 10 or 20 seconds later, a strong force of deodorizer is released. These fogging treatments can treat spaces up to 600 square feet.

Odor Absorbers

You can purchase residential grade or commercial grade odor absorbers through your choice online retailer or at your local home improvement store. Grocery store also common carriers of odor absorbing products. You can place multiple odor absorber containers around the smelly areas of your home to help clear out some of the pungency. Residential grade odor absorbers are recommended for minor to moderate cases of dead animal odors. If you’re dead animal odors are stronger, opt for commercial grade odor absorber.

Odor Neutralizers

Odor neutralizers are popular product on the market for both residential and commercial environments. When you think of an odor neutralizers spray, you might think of a popular brand like Febreze or Ozium. And you would be right to do so. These two products are sprays that work well to sanitize the surrounding air and eliminate airborne odors.

Home Fragrances

Whether in addition to one of the options above, or as a lone resort to cover up residual dead carcass smells, home fragrances like candles, wax burners, incense, essential oils, fragrance plugins, and even fresh, aromatic flowers.

Are you looking for prompt and professional assistance with a dead carcass or animal infestation? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for prompt and professional dead animal removal in Nashville, Tennessee. We also provide animal infestation cleanup and repair for both residential and commercial clients.

Top 3 Tips for Dead Animal Removal

Posted on November 29, 2021 by smokywildlife

Dead animal smell cannot be mistaken. You have certainly detected the tell-tale odor of rot and decay before, but when it is coming from your property, or worse, inside your house, you are on high alert. No one wants to put dead animal removal off to the next morning; it is a task that must be dealt with upon immediate detection. But before you go around investigating your premises, be sure you are well-equipped to handle the job.

Continue reading to learn the top 3 dead animal removal tips you need to know to protect your home, yourself, and all of your loved ones, including pets!

What You Need to Know About Dead Animal Removal

Dead animals are a hazardous material since they can carry disease and parasites. So, the task of removing a dead animal from your house or yard is a risky one. As soon as you discover a dead animal, the first step is to isolate the area, keeping children and pets away. Your next step is to prepare yourself for the task of getting rid of a dead animal.

Here are the top 3 tips for dead animal removal:

1) Act Fast

When you have a dead animal infesting your house or property, it is in your best interest to get rod of it as fast as possible. Do not hesitate to locate and removal a dead animal, especially if it is inside your home. The longer you wait to get rid of a dead animal carcass, the more consequences will pile up, including pest infestations like vultures, rodents, maggots, flies, lice, and tapeworms, as well as diseases like Rabies, Roundworm, distemper, Giardia, Legionnaires, Leptospirosis, and more.

2) Protect Yourself From Harm

As mentioned, dead animal carcasses are unsanitary and highly hazardous to your health. For these reasons, it is critical to take all the proper steps necessary to protect yourself from any type of exposure to disease or parasite. So, be sure to don yourself with a full face mask, heavy-duty work gloves, a sealable bag, a grasper tool (if available), and a shovel. You will need to pick the carcass up, place it in the bag, and bury it deep in the ground.

3) Hire a Professional Wildlife Removal Service

It may seem like a big project to locate, bag, and bury a dead animal, and it is. For this reason, most homeowners hire a local Nashville wildlife control company for dead animal removal service. They come fully-equipped to remove a dead animal and dispose of it according to all state and EPA guidelines. No, they will not bury it on your property! But they will ensure there are no residual hazards or dangers left behind.

Dead Animal Odor Detection

If you have not found the dead animal but can smell the distinct odor, you will need to do some further investigating. Start by walking in the direction that smells the most pungent. The most likely places inside a house to find a dead animal are inside cabinets, attics, crawl spaces, and wall voids. Outside, the possibilities are endless, but typically ground-level. Look in log piles, under porches and decks, in gardens, beneath chairs and benches, and even inside plastic tarps and covers, such as playset, grill, and pool covers.

If you cannot locate the dead animal, but the smell is putrid enough to give hint that the animal is too close for comfort, you will need to hire a local Nashville TN critter control company for an inspection. They have innovative technologies and astute industry knowledge to locate a dead animal in or around your house.

Do you have a dead animal in or around your property? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for prompt and professional dead animal removal in Nashville, Tennessee and its surrounding regions. We serve commercial clients, too.