Get Rid of Woodchucks: Tips and Tricks for a Peaceful Property

Posted on September 18, 2023 by smokywildlife

Woodchucks, more commonly known as groundhogs, can be quite the nuisance for homeowners, gardeners, and property owners. With their relentless burrowing and insatiable appetite for plants, they can easily wreak havoc on your beautifully manicured lawn or your thriving vegetable garden. But fear not! There are effective strategies and solutions available to manage and even get rid of these pesky creatures.

In this blog post, we will explore woodchuck behavior to understand them better, and delve into various woodchuck repellent options, and provide tips and tricks to reclaim your peaceful property. So, let’s dive in and learn how to send woodchucks packing!

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Understanding Woodchucks

Before taking measures to get rid of woodchucks, it is important to understand their behavior. Generally speaking, woodchucks are most active in the early morning and late afternoon hours during the warmer months of the year. They are also most active after a period of rain or when temperatures start to rise. This is because they need water for their food sources, which are primarily plant-based. Woodchucks can also be quite territorial and may defend their turf aggressively if they feel threatened.

Here are some more interesting facts about woodchucks:

They are also known as groundhogs and whistle pigs. They are members of the rodent family and are found throughout much of North America.

They are primarily herbivores, meaning they eat mostly plants. Their diet consists of grasses, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. They will also occasionally eat insects or small animals such as mice or frogs.

They have an average lifespan of 6-8 years in the wild but can live up to 10 years in captivity.

They have a variety of predators including foxes, coyotes, hawks, owls, and snakes. To protect themselves from these predators they will often build burrows or dens underground that they can retreat to when threatened.

They are usually solitary animals, but they do form family groups during the mating season in the springtime when several males will compete for one female’s attention.

They have become well-known for their use of hibernation during the winter months as a way to conserve energy and survive cold temperatures. During hibernation their body temperature drops significantly, and their heart rate slows down dramatically which allows them to survive with minimal food intake until spring arrives again.

Woodchuck Repellent Options

Now that you understand woodchuck behavior, let’s talk about animal repellents. There are a variety of commercial woodchuck repellents available on the market today, from sprays to granules. These products work by emitting a strong odor that woodchucks find offensive and bothersome. In addition to commercial animal repellents, there are also natural repellent options available such as garlic or onion oil, predator urine (typically coyote), putrescent egg, castor oil, ammonia-soaked rags, capsaicin oil, and even human hair clippings. While these may not be as effective as store-bought repellents, they are still worth a try.

Additional Tips for Prevention and Deterrence

In addition to repellents, there are other steps you can take to help prevent woodchuck intrusion. Woodchucks like to stay cool during the summer months, so mowing grass short and removing dense vegetation can make them less likely to inhabit your property. Additionally, regularly inspecting your property for any burrows or dug-up soil can help you identify and address any woodchuck activity early on. Finally, it is important to note that woodchucks are most active during breeding season from March to May, so it may be beneficial to take extra precautions during this time period.

Professional Groundhog Removal and Control

The most effective way to get rid of woodchucks is through professional wildlife exclusion and animal removal. There are several methods your licensed groundhog removal specialist might use, including trapping and relocation, fencing off your property, using natural repellents, and environmental modifications.

When it comes to trapping, it’s essential to do so in a humane way and release the groundhog in a suitable location. Fencing off your property is a long-term solution and can keep groundhogs out for good. Using natural repellents like castor oil and predator urine can also be effective in deterring groundhogs. Ultimately, the most efficient way to get rid of groundhogs is to seek the help of professional wildlife removal services.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, groundhogs may be a nuisance, but there are effective strategies and solutions available to manage and even get rid of these pesky creatures. Understanding their behavior is key in developing an effective plan for repelling woodchucks from your property. With the tips shared in this post, you should now have the tools to create a peaceful property and reclaim your space!

Are you dealing with nuisance groundhogs in or around your property? If so, contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed woodchuck removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee, and its surrounding areas. We serve both residential and commercial clients with the most competitive prices around.

Nuisance Fox Control Regulations in Tennessee

Posted on April 7, 2023 by smokywildlife

Tennessee is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes. While these animals can be fascinating to watch, they can also become a nuisance when they start raiding your trash or digging up your garden. If you’re dealing with an overpopulation of foxes on your property in Tennessee, it’s important to know the state regulations for controlling and removing them.

In this blog post, we’ll cover what you need to know about nuisance fox control regulations in Tennessee so that you can keep both yourself and the animals safe.

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Common Signs of Nuisance Foxes

Nuisance foxes can be tricky to spot; however, there are several common signs that indicate their presence. For example, a strong smell of urine will often linger in areas where a fox is present. You may also find the animal’s tracks and droppings, which can be identified by their cylindrical shape and pointy ends. Foxes may also appear during dawn and dusk when they become active and search for food, disturb sleeping birds or scavenge through garbage. If you have a suspicion that there is a nuisance fox nearby, look for these signs or consider setting up a camera trap to get visual evidence. Then contact a professional Nashville wildlife control company for expert fox removal and abatement services.

Tennessee Regulations for Fox Trapping and Abatement

The first step in dealing with nuisance foxes is understanding Tennessee’s regulations. The state has a Nuisance Wildlife Control program that requires all wildlife control operators to be licensed and to use only non-lethal methods of removal. This means that any live capture traps must be checked every day, while poison and euthanasia are not allowed. Additionally, the program bans relocating foxes outside of their natural range or habitat.

Professional Fox Removal and Control Services

Nuisance foxes can cause a lot of problems if left unchecked. In some cases, they can pose a danger to both humans and animals alike. To keep their population under control, licensed fox removal and control services are available to assist property owners in deterring these animals from taking up residence near their dwellings. Professional fox trappers are state licensed and insured, plus they retain the proper equipment and resources to safely get rid of foxes and animal-proof the surroundings to prevent future fox activity. They are able to identify the most appropriate methods for controlling nuisance fox populations for commercial and residential properties, all without causing harm of any kind to the surrounding landscape or non-target wildlife. With the help of experienced fox removal experts, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of being impacted by these animals’ presence significantly.

Fox Control Methods

Once the nuisance foxes have been removed, it’s important to take steps to prevent their return. This includes eliminating food sources like garbage, pet food, and bird feeders, as well as sealing off access points around your property with fences or other deterrents. If you have pets, make sure you keep them secure at all times in order to protect them from any remaining foxes in the area.

How to Get Rid of Foxes for Good

Dealing with nuisance foxes can be a tricky situation, but understanding Tennessee’s regulations for removal and prevention is key to keeping yourself and the animals safe. Be sure to hire an experienced professional and practice proper precautions when it comes to removing and preventing foxes on your property in Tennessee. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can keep your home free of these unwanted visitors.

Are you tired of dealing with the nuisance fox activity on your property? Are foxes causing your landscape all sorts of grief? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured fox removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee and beyond. We also work with many other types of wildlife and serve both residential and commercial clients.

How to Humanely Remove Groundhogs from Your Property

Posted on February 21, 2023 by smokywildlife

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks or whistle-pigs, are cute and fuzzy animals that can wreak havoc on your property. From destroying gardens to burrowing under homes and decks, groundhogs can cause extensive damage if left unchecked. If you’re dealing with a groundhog problem on your property, it’s important to take steps to humanely remove the animal(s). In this blog post we’ll discuss the best ways of doing so. We’ll cover topics such as identifying groundhog activity in your yard, preventing it from occurring again in the future, and how to safely trap and relocate any existing groundhogs.

By following these steps, you can protect both yourself and these wild animals living near you!

Call 615-610-0962 When You Need Licensed Groundhog Trappers in Nashville Tennessee

Create a Groundhog Control Plan

The first step to humanely removing groundhogs from your property is to take measures to prevent them from entering in the first place. Groundhogs are drawn to yards that provide food and shelter, so it’s important to keep landscaping trimmed, remove any potential nesting sites, and limit access to food sources such as pet food or bird seed. Additionally, if you have a wooded area near your home, clear away brush piles and use fencing around the perimeter of your yard so groundhogs can’t make their way onto your property.

Groundhog Trapping and Removal

If you already have a groundhog on your property, it’s essential to humanely trap it before attempting removal. You can do this by using a live groundhog trap, however it’s important to remember that trapping should only be done if all other options have failed. Trapping is a stressful experience for groundhogs, so you must make sure to set the traps up correctly and check them regularly in order to minimize any suffering. Once you’ve successfully trapped a groundhog, it can then be humanely relocated far away from your property.

Safe and Humane Groundhog Removal and Control is Key

Groundhog removal can seem like an overwhelming task – but with the right knowledge and tools, it doesn’t have to be! Embracing these steps not only safeguards you, but also the wildlife inhabiting your community! If done correctly, trapping and relocation can be an effective way of removing groundhogs from your property.

We hope this blog post has been helpful and given you the confidence to take charge of your groundhog issue. For more information on humanely removing groundhogs, don’t hesitate to contact Smoky Wildlife Control today. We provide free estimates and advice.

How to Identify and Remove Problematic Bird Species in Tennessee

Posted on January 27, 2023 by smokywildlife

Living in Tennessee, you may have noticed an increase in the number of bird species that are causing problems. Whether it’s a flock of noisy starlings or a group of woodpeckers damaging your home, birds can be quite pesky creatures. Fortunately, there are ways to identify and remove these problematic bird species so you can enjoy peace and quiet again.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify problem bird species in Tennessee and what steps you should take to remove them from your property. We’ll start by discussing the types of birds that commonly cause issues before going into detail about how to hire professional bird trappers for removal services. Finally, we’ll discuss some tips on how to prevent future infestations as well as other methods for controlling nuisance birds around your home or business. By keeping these important points in mind, you can effectively manage any bird-related issue quickly and safely.

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Common Nuisance Bird Species in Tennessee

When it comes to identifying problem bird species in Tennessee, there are a few key types of birds that you should watch out for. These include the European Starling, the Rock Pigeon, and the Red-Winged Blackbird. All three of these bird species can cause extensive damage to homes and buildings due to their large numbers and habit of nesting in a single area. Additionally, woodpeckers are also a common nuisance bird due to the amount of noise they can make and the damage they do to buildings as they search for food.

Professional Bird Removal and Control

Once you have identified which birds are causing problems, it’s time to contact a professional bird trapper for removal services. Bird trappers are experts in bird control and removal, and they can help you get rid of your problem bird species quickly and safely. They use traps to capture the birds, which can then be relocated or released in a different area. If severe damage has already been done to buildings or property, they may also be able to help with repairs or prevention efforts.

When hiring a local animal trapper in Nashville, make sure they are licensed and insured to provide the bird removal and control services you need. You should also ask questions about their experience in bird removal, as well as the methods they use for capturing birds safely. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that any trapping or removal services adhere to local and state laws regarding wildlife.

DIY Bird Control

In addition to hiring a bird trapper, there are some things you can do yourself to prevent future infestations of problem birds. One way is to make your property less attractive to the birds by removing any potential nesting sites, such as wood piles or overgrown shrubs. You should also keep food sources, such as bird feeders, away from your home or business to discourage birds from returning. Finally, it’s important to keep your property clean and free of debris so that birds don’t have anywhere to hide or roost.

Safely Control Nuisance Birds in Tennessee

By following these steps, you can effectively manage any bird-related issue in Tennessee. From identifying problem bird species to hiring professional Nashville bird trappers for removal services, you can keep your property safe and sound. Remember to always use caution when dealing with nuisance birds and adhere to local and state laws regarding wildlife trapping and relocation. With a little bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can rid your property of those pesky birds in no time!

If you’re looking to fully protect your property from pesky critters such as raccoons, a specialist is the only way to create and implement an effective critter control strategy. Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed bird removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee, and surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

10 Reasons Why Professional Beaver Control is Necessary for Homeowners

Posted on January 11, 2023 by smokywildlife

Beaver control is an important part of maintaining a healthy and safe environment, both for humans and wildlife. Beaver populations are naturally expanding in many parts of the world, but when they become too populous or start to interfere with human activities, beaver control becomes necessary. Professional beaver trappers can help homeowners manage nuisance beavers that may threaten their property or cause other problems.

Below, you will find the top 10 reasons why professional beaver control is necessary for homeowners.

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Why You Should Hire a Professional For Beaver Removal and Control

1. Beaver populations can quickly become overabundant if not managed properly, resulting in destruction of property and disruption of ecosystems. Professional beaver control experts know how to identify potential problems and take steps to prevent damage or minimize its effects.

2. Beaver dams can cause flooding, which can lead to structural damage to homes and other buildings, as well as the growth of harmful bacteria and other contaminants. Beaver trappers can help remove beaver dams and restore water flow to its natural course.

3. Beaver control can prevent beavers from eating crops and destroying gardens, which can cause significant losses for homeowners who depend on these for food or income. Professional beaver trappers are adept at identifying and mitigating these risks.

4. Beaver damage can compromise the integrity of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure by weakening their foundations or causing dangerous potholes. Beaver trappers are trained to quickly identify and remove beavers near areas of high traffic.

5. Beaver control can reduce contamination in water sources caused by beaver dams, which can be dangerous for humans and wildlife alike. Beaver trappers can help remove these dams and restore clean water access in affected areas.

6. Beaver control is necessary to protect livestock, as beavers can attack or damage animals such as cows and sheep if they come into contact with them. Professional beaver trappers know how to safely remove beavers from areas with livestock without causing further damage or disruption.

7. Beaver control can also help protect wild animals and their habitats, as beavers may displace native species or interfere with natural ecosystems by building dams and changing water flow in the area. Beaver trappers are trained to identify these problems and take appropriate action to minimize their impact.

8. Beaver control is necessary to protect valuable timber and other natural resources, as beavers can quickly fell trees or chew through structural supports. Beaver trappers have experience identifying these risks and removing the beavers before they cause further damage.

9. Beaver control can help prevent the spread of disease by controlling the population of beavers and preventing them from coming into contact with people. Beaver trappers can also identify sick or injured animals and arrange for their capture and treatment if necessary.

10. Beaver control is necessary to protect public health, as beaver feces can carry diseases that can be hazardous to humans if left uncontrolled. Beaver trappers are trained to safely remove beavers from populated areas and take appropriate measures to prevent contamination.

Conclusion on the Importance of Professional Beaver Control

By engaging with a professional Nashville beaver control company, homeowners can rest assured that the nuisance beavers in their area are managed safely and effectively. Beaver trappers are knowledgeable about all aspects of beaver control and will work to ensure that any potential problems are mitigated quickly and efficiently. By investing in professional beaver control services in Tennessee, homeowners can protect their property, crops and livestock while also preserving the area’s natural ecosystems and resources.

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

Exploring the Role of Synanthropes in Urban Areas

Posted on December 30, 2022 by smokywildlife

As cities become more densely populated, they often bring with them an influx of nuisance wildlife. These animals are known as synanthropes – species that have adapted to living in close proximity to humans and make their homes in urban areas. Synanthropes can be both beneficial and detrimental, depending on the circumstances.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the role of synanthropes in urban areas and look at ways to manage them effectively, so they don’t become a nuisance or hazard. We’ll also discuss how animal removal services can help keep these populations under control while still allowing us to appreciate the beauty of nature even within our cities.

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The Pros and Cons of Synanthropes

In urbanized areas, synanthropes are beneficial in that they help keep the environment clean by eating insects and small animals. Synanthropic species like raccoons, skunks, opossums, foxes, and coyotes can help reduce the number of pests that have become a nuisance in cities. Synanthrope populations can also help balance the ecosystem by providing food for predators like owls and bobcats.

Unfortunately, synanthropic animals can become a nuisance if their populations are not managed properly. Synanthropes like rats, mice, and pigeons can carry diseases that threaten public health; other species such as raccoons and opossums may raid garbage cans and damage property. Synanthrope populations can also become overpopulated, leading to competition for resources like food and shelter that can cause increased aggression between animals.

Solutions to Synanthropic Behaviors

The best way to manage urban wildlife is through animal control services. Wildlife removal experts are trained to safely and humanely remove nuisance wildlife from urban areas without causing harm to either the animals or people. Animal removal services in Nashville also provide education about how to prevent animal infestations in urban areas by eliminating sources of food and shelter, such as garbage cans and compost piles.

Nashville Animal Removal Services

Wildlife removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee is essential for keeping synanthropic populations under control while still allowing us to appreciate their presence in our cities. Synanthropes are an important part of urban ecology, providing balance and beauty to our urban environments. By safely and humanely removing these nuisance wildlife from our cities, we can enjoy the beauty of nature even within city limits.

Do-It-Yourself Nuisance Wildlife Control

Controlling nuisance animals around your property can be a nuisance in itself, but there are ways to ensure that any wildlife passing through is either discouraged from settling down or deterred away altogether. Animal proofing your property is essential, including making sure all entryways are sealed and refuse is properly disposed of so as not to attract scavenging wildlife. You may want to use scent repellents or motion-activated water sprays if nuisance wildlife problems are especially persistent, as these can help keep animals like skunks and raccoons away. If the problem persists, contact a licensed Nashville wildlife control service who will be able to assist you in safely removing nuisance wildlife from your property.

If you are having trouble with wild animals in Tennessee or the Smoky Mountain area, don’t wait any longer and hire a professional operator to help manage your critter control. Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for prompt and professional animal removal in Nashville, Tennessee. We also provide animal infestation cleanup and repair for both residential and commercial clients.

Top Nuisance Animals to Watch Out For This Fall and Winter

Posted on November 11, 2022 by smokywildlife

The wide array of species here in Tennessee is quite the blessing. But when wildlife get too close, they can cross over into the nuisance end of the spectrum. This fall and winter, be sure you know how to protect your home and business from nuisance wildlife tampering and infestations.

Continue below to learn which animals tend to be the top nuisances during this time of year, plus what you can do to prevent wildlife problems on your property.

Call 615-610-0962 For Licensed Smoky Mountain Critter Control in Tennessee!

Fall Season Nuisance Wildlife

In Tennessee, there are a few nuisance animals that you should be on the lookout for during the fall and winter months. Here are a few of the top ones:

1. Raccoons – These pesky little creatures can cause all sorts of problems, from raiding your trash cans to getting into your attic or chimney. Be sure to keep your trash cans securely covered and your home sealed up tight to prevent raccoons from becoming a nuisance.

2. Squirrels – These little rodents can be a real pain, especially if they get into your attic or eaves. Be sure to seal up any openings that squirrels or chipmunks could use to get into your home and consider using squirrel-proof bird feeders to keep them from raiding your bird seed.

3. Opossums – These marsupials are not known to be aggressive, but they can carry disease and their scavenging habits can make them a nuisance. Be sure to keep your trash cans securely covered and your home sealed up tight to prevent opossums from becoming a nuisance.

4. Snakes – While most snakes are not aggressive and are actually beneficial to the environment, there are a few species that can be dangerous. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different types of snakes that live in your area and call a professional Nashville snake trapper if you encounter one that you’re not comfortable handling.

5. Bears – While black bears are not typically aggressive, they can be dangerous if they feel threatened. If you live in an area where bears are known to roam, be sure to take precautions such as keeping your garbage cans securely covered and avoiding areas where bears are known to congregate.

By taking a few simple precautions, you can avoid becoming a victim of nuisance animals this fall and winter. Be sure to keep an eye out for these and other nuisance animals and take steps to prevent them from becoming a problem in your home or yard.

Professional Nashville Wildlife Control is Here to Help

Wildlife damage and intrusions can be a serious problem for homeowners and businesses alike. Not only are animals an aesthetic nuisance, but they can also cause considerable structural damage as well. And if you’re unlucky enough to have a wild animal break into your home, you could be dealing with some serious health risks too. That’s where professional Nashville wildlife control services come in.

Wildlife control companies in Tennessee have the expertise and equipment necessary to safely remove unwanted animals from your property and prevent them from returning. They can also provide advice on how to best protect your home or business from future animal invasions. So, if you’re experiencing problems with wildlife, don’t hesitate to call a professional Nashville wildlife removal operator for help.

Are you dealing with nuisance wildlife in or around your Smoky Mountain property? If so, contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed critter control services in Nashville, Tennessee, and its surrounding areas. We serve both residential and commercial clients with the most competitive prices around.

Freaky Fun Facts About Vampire Bats

Posted on October 19, 2022 by smokywildlife

There are many popular misconceptions about bats. They are often portrayed as sinister creatures of the night, associated with darkness and death. Perhaps one of the most misunderstood bat species with a bad rep is the Vampire bat, mostly due to its unfortunate and misleading moniker.

So, for a Halloween treat this year, let’s take a closer look at Vampire bats and learn some freaky fun facts about them!

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Clearing Up the Myths About Vampire Bats

Vampire bats are small, winged mammals that live in Central and South America. There are three species of vampire bat, all of which are relatively small. The largest of these, the Common Vampire Bat (Desmodus rotundus), has a body length of around 3.5 inches (9 cm) and a wingspan of up to 8.5 inches (22 cm). The other two species, the White-Winged Vampire Bat (Diaemus youngi) and the hairy-legged vampire bat (Trachops cirrhosus), are both slightly smaller.

Vampire bats are found in tropical and subtropical areas of Central and South America. Common vampire bats inhabit a wide range of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and even urban areas. White-winged vampire bats are found primarily in forested areas, while hairy-legged vampire bats prefer more open habitats such as grasslands. All three species of vampire bat are nocturnal, meaning that they are most active at night. During the day, they roost in dark, sheltered areas such as caves, trees, or buildings.

Vampire Bats Do Not Suck Blood

These bats are unique in that they feed primarily on blood, which they obtain by biting their victim’s skin and licking the blood that flows from the wound. Though they are capable of feeding on other animals, vampires prefer to dine on livestock such as cows and chickens. Vampire bats have a number of adaptations that enable them to feed on blood. Their sharp teeth are perfect for puncturing skin, and their saliva contains an anticoagulant that prevents the blood from clotting. They also have a special heat-sensing ability that allows them to locate warm-blooded prey in the dark.

Despite their reputation, vampire bats are fascinating creatures that play an important role in the ecosystems where they live. By feeding on blood, they help to control the populations of their prey animals. They also play a part in the dispersal of seeds and pollen, as they often defecate while in flight. As a result, vampire bats play an important role in the maintenance of healthy ecosystems.

Risk of Disease

Though they are capable of spreading disease, vampire bats are not considered to be a major public health concern. The diseases that they can transmit, such as rabies, are relatively rare. In addition, vampire bats typically only feed on animals, and so the risk of them transmitting disease to humans is considered to be low.

The Importance of All Bat Species

There are many popular misconceptions about bats. They are often portrayed as sinister creatures of the night, associated with darkness and death. However, bats are actually incredibly interesting and important animals. There are over 1,200 species of bats in the world, making them the second largest group of mammals (after rodents). They are found on every continent except Antarctica and can live in a wide variety of habitats, from rainforests to deserts. Bats play an important role in many ecosystems, serving as pollinators and seed dispersers as well as helping to control insect populations.

Despite their importance, bats are often misunderstood and feared. In many cultures, they are associated with darkness, death, and evil. This negative portrayal of bats is unjustified and can lead to real harm. Bats are vital to the health of our planet, and we should do everything we can to protect them.

Are you dealing with a nuisance bat problem on your property and need to get rid of them fast? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for prompt and professional bat removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee and Clarksville, TN. We serve commercial clients, as well.

How to Feed Squirrels Without Turning Them Into a Nuisance

Posted on August 4, 2022 by smokywildlife

When feeding the wildlife around your home or office, it is important to follow certain guidelines if you want to prevent future nuisance critter problems. This point is especially true for squirrels. Squirrels are notorious for overstaying their welcome in terms of nuisance wildlife tampering and activity. Not only can they pillage your pots and planters, but they can also steal all your birdseed, pet food, and even your garbage.

As a squirrel admirer, you will be happy to learn that there is an easy way to nurture and feed your backyard squirrels without turning them into a nuisance. Continue below for these tips and more!

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Tips for Feeding Squirrels

You can find squirrel feeders all over the place. From your local home improvement and garden stores to your favorite all-encompassing online retailer, squirrel feeders are easy to procure and even easier to set up. Just be sure you get yourself some quality squirrel feed! This is just one way you can protect your property from nuisance squirrel activity.

Let’s review some of the most important rules when feeding squirrels around your house:

Avoid Using Human Foods

Although it may be tempting to leave out some fresh fruit and vegetables, or some crunchy peanut butter, is not recommended to feed human food to squirrels. Not only is people food deficient of certain nutrients essential in a squirrel’s diet, but depending on manufacturing and ingredients, it can also make them sick. If you wish to make your own squirrel feed, aim for organic, unprocessed ingredients like nuts, legumes, and seeds.

Secure Your Trash

Squirrels love a good garbage raid. They will pillage any open and accessible trashcan whenever possible. Even if you are feeding squirrels, they will still go after your garbage receptacles if the opportunity is there. To prevent squirrels from reaching this level of nuisance activity, be sure to secure your trashcans inside until collection day or replace your trashcans with metal ones that cannot be chewed through. The same goes for pet food that is kept outdoors.

Place Feeders Further Away From Your House

When choosing locations for your squirrel feeders, it can be tempting to lodge them close by where you can see them and enjoy the show. But if squirrel feeders are too close to your house, you may run into some nuisance squirrel problems down the line. Hanging feeders too close to your siding can give squirrels access to your roof, which is a prime target for attic and chimney invasions. Hanging them from your patio can cause concern if you have young children or pets, as squirrels are known to carry diseases, and can become too comfortable, causing them to turn territorial and aggressive.

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

Essential Facts About Nuisance Raccoons

Posted on July 20, 2022 by smokywildlife

Raccoons can cause a lot of trouble for both home and business owners. Their high level of intelligence gives them an advantage in the scavenger world, while their dexterous, human-like paws give them the ability to grip, grasp, pry, and pull. These attributes make them the perfect storm in terms of residential and commercial pests.

If you are currently dealing with a nuisance raccoon problem or have noticed in increase in raccoon visits on your property or in your community, it is important to take the right precautions and implement the most responsible protections.

Continue reading to learn some basic facts about raccoons that will help you better understand their behaviors and give you the tools necessary to raccoon-proof your property against tampering and intrusions.

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Information About Raccoon Pests

What They Look Like

Raccoons come in all different sizes, shapes, colors, and more, depending on which region of the world they are from. Here in the Smoky Mountain region, the Common raccoon is usually a combination of muted colors, including gray, brown, white, and black. They have large, furry tails that are striped with black rings. Aside from their ringed tails, their most distinguishable trait is a black patch of fur around their eyes that resembles a burglar’s mask. Raccoon offspring are born without ring tails and black mask, as these traits develop as they get older. At full maturity, an adult raccoon is similar in size to a large house cat and weighs between 15 to 40 pounds.

Where They Live

Raccoons, like most mammals in Tennessee, prefer to live near water sources and forested areas. They will make their dens inside hollow trees or brush piles, or simply use dens that were previously dug by other animals. In populated areas, raccoons are known to use residential and commercial properties as a means of shelter. Attics, basements, garages, porches, crawl spaces, and roofs are some common areas where raccoons are found. They can cause an extreme amount of damage, which is why this behavior has classified them as a nuisance animal in these areas.

How They Behave

To each other, raccoons will chirp, purr, and grunt as a means of communication. In situations where raccoons feel threatened or scared, they will often hiss, snort, and growl. Many people assume raccoons in Tennessee are dangerous, but they will not attack unless they are sick, nursing young, or provoked in some way. In everyday life, raccoons are nocturnal, so they are only active at night. During active hours, they often hunt for food, but certain times of the year, they will also be on the lookout for warmer shelters. As mentioned earlier, they have highly dexterous paws and sharp claws, which gives them amazing climbing abilities. You will often spot raccoons high up in trees, on roofs, and more.

What They Eat

Raccoons are omnivores just like us. They eat animals, plants, legumes, and more. The most common foods eaten by raccoons in Tennessee include eggs, clams, fish, snails, beetles, insects, larva, nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and even small birds and amphibians. In populated areas, raccoons are known to love pet food and garbage, so be careful leaving your trashcans out overnight. If you watch a raccoon eating near a body of water, it will look as though they are “washing” their meal, but really, they are just using their highly sensitive paws to better identify whatever it is they are about to eat.

When They Breed

Raccoons generally mate in the early spring, so you can expect late spring and early summer births. Female raccoons have a short gestation period, around 60 days, and can birth anywhere from one to five pups at a time. Raccoon babies are called “kits”, or more informally, “pups.” Pups stay with their mothers until the next spring, in which time they have learned to climb, feed, and care for themselves.

Why They are a Nuisance

Because of their high intelligence, climbing skills, and human-like paws that can grab hold of anything, raccoons are consequently a highly-destructive animal. They are known to dig up lawns in search of grubs, pillage chicken coops, destroy gardens and potted plants, pry open porch boards for access below, rip off roof shingles and siding, and much more. But above all else, they are most notorious for causing a large mess out of trashcans and dumpster containers. They will even eat pet food and livestock feed. These raccoon damages are more than just structural and costly, they are also a safety and health risk.

How to Get Rid of Them

If you have a nuisance raccoon problem in the Tennessee or Smoky Mountain regions, act now and hire a professional operator for safe critter control assistance. Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for affordable raccoon removal services in Nashville, Tennessee and its surrounding counties. We provide residential and commercial work.