The Ultimate Guide to Opossum Removal: Keep Your Home Safe

Posted on March 29, 2024 by smokywildlife

Opossums, also known as possums, might not be the first animal that comes to mind when thinking about wildlife in urban or suburban settings, but these creatures have increasingly become a concern for homeowners. Their unique adaptability and scavenging nature often lead them directly into our communities and, at times, our homes. Understanding opossum behavior and knowing how to effectively control their presence is vital for safeguarding your property.

Call 615-610-0962 For TWRA Licensed Opossum Removal in Nashville & Clarksville Tennessee

Understanding Opossum Behavior and Habits

Before formulating a control strategy, it’s crucial to understand the animal you’re dealing with. Opossums are solitary, nocturnal creatures that prefer to make their homes in dark, secure areas. They are omnivores with a diet that includes carrion, insects, rodents, birds, eggs, plants, fruits, and even garbage. This wide range in diet is one reason they can thrive in various habitats, including your backyard.

Habitat and Behavior

Opossums typically use abandoned burrows, tree cavities, and brush piles for shelter but have been known to create dens under porches, storage sheds, and in attics. They are excellent climbers and swimmers, which grants them access to yards with varying landscapes.

Attractants to Residential Areas

Opossums are opportunistic feeders attracted by the scent of food and garbage. Pet food left outside, accessible bird feeders, and uncovered trash cans are common attractants. Additionally, the warmth and darkness of sheltered spaces in or around homes can be an attractive nesting option.

Signs of Opossum Activity

Identifying opossum intrusion early is the first step in effective control. Opossums leave behind several signs that can alert homeowners to their presence.

Physical Traces

Look for opossum tracks, scat, and chew marks indicating their feeding activity. Tracks will be hand-like and include an opposable “thumb,” unique to opossums. Their scat resembles that of domestic cats or dogs and is often found in or around their nest or feeding spots.

Behavioral Clues

Opossums are known for “playing dead” as a defensive mechanism, so a seemingly lifeless opossum may actually be alive. Other behaviors include hissing and baring teeth when provoked or threatened, and they often trail after a family of young.

Effective Opossum Control Methods

Once you’ve identified opossum activity, it’s time to take action. There are several effective opossum control methods ranging from deterring opossums in the first place to safely removing them if they’ve already made themselves at home.

Prevention Techniques

Preventing opossum access is key. This includes securing outdoor pet food, covering garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, and removing brush or debris that could serve as shelter. Fencing can also be an effective barrier if properly installed. You can also apply a homemade, non-toxic animal repellent.

Safe Removal Strategies

If opossums have already taken up residence in your home or yard, it’s important to remove them safely and humanely. Trapping is a common method, but it’s essential to check local regulations and ensure you’re using a trap designed for wildlife, and that you release the captured opossum at least a few miles away.

Long-Term Property Protection

Eliminating existing opossums is just the first step. You must also focus on long-term protection to prevent a future infestation.

Ongoing Preventative Measures

Continue with the preventative techniques that deter opossums, such as securing food sources and regular yard maintenance. Regularly inspect your property for any signs of new opossum activity.

Property Modifications

Structural modifications to your home, such as sealing off entry points to basements and attics, and installing one-way exclusion devices can prevent opossums from finding a way back in.

Enhancing Your Property’s Security Against Wildlife

In addition to opossum-specific strategies, enhancing your property’s security against all types of wildlife can provide overall protection.

General Wildlife Deterrents

Utilize motion-activated lights, sprinklers, or sound devices to startle and keep wildlife away. Consider natural repellents like ammonia-soaked rags or predator urine.

Property Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your property includes keeping trees and bushes trimmed, fencing in good repair, and excluding access to potential shelter spots. A well-maintained property is less likely to attract opossums or any other wildlife.

Conclusion: Take a Proactive Approach

The presence of opossums on your property doesn’t have to be a lengthy or frustrating issue. By recognizing the signs of their activity, implementing effective control methods, and taking long-term protective measures, you can safeguard your home from these nocturnal creatures. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the task of opossum control, reach out to professional wildlife control services. They can provide expert help tailored to your specific situation and local wildlife regulations.

By staying informed and taking action, you ensure the comfort and safety of your home and family. With these measures, you can enjoy your property without unwanted visitors disrupting your peace of mind. Remember that when it comes to managing wildlife, taking a proactive stance will always be your best strategy.

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

Squirrels in the Attic: Prevention, Detection, and Eviction Strategies

Posted on January 23, 2024 by smokywildlife

If you’ve ever been startled by the scurrying and scratching sounds coming from the attic, chances are you’re not alone. Many homeowners have faced, or will face, the challenge of dealing with uninvited guests – squirrels. While these creatures may be charming in their natural habitat, they can cause a surprising amount of havoc when they decide to nest in your attic.

In this blog post, we delve into practical and humane strategies for preventing squirrels from making your home theirs, methods for detecting their presence, and effective eviction strategies for squirrel removal. So, if you are hearing the patter of tiny feet above your head, this guide on tackling squirrels in the attic is for you.

Call 615-610-0962 For Squirrel Removal Near Nashville and Clarksville TN

Squirrel Proofing and Prevention

The best way to deal with squirrels in the attic is by preventing them from entering in the first place. Squirrels are opportunistic creatures, and they will take advantage of any openings or vulnerabilities in your home’s exterior to make their way inside. Here are some steps you can take to squirrel-proof your home:

Inspect your roof. Look for any loose or damaged shingles, holes, or gaps that can serve as entry points. Repair these immediately to eliminate potential access points for squirrels.

Keep tree branches trimmed. Branches should be kept far away from your roofline. Squirrels are excellent climbers and can use overhanging branches to jump onto your roof.

Install a squirrel baffle. Placing a baffle around the base of any trees near your home will prevent squirrels from using the trees to gain access to your roof.

Seal any openings or gaps. Seal around plumbing, vents, and chimneys with heavy-duty hardware cloth or metal mesh. Squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so be thorough in your inspections.

Remove attractions. Remove any access to food, shelter, or water, including bird feeders, bird baths, and pet food dishes.

Most Common Signs of Squirrels in the Attic

The key to successfully evicting Tennessee squirrels from your attic is detecting their presence early on. Here are some signs that you may have squirrels in the attic:

► Scratching, scampering, or rustling sounds coming from your ceiling or walls.
► Visible entry points or holes on the exterior of your home.
► Chewed wires, insulation, or other damage in your attic.
► Droppings and urine stains in your attic or around entry points.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly before the squirrel population grows and causes more damage.

Squirrel Removal and Trapping

When it comes to evicting squirrels from your attic, it’s important to remember that these are wild animals and should be handled with care and respect. Here are some effective eviction strategies:

One-way exit door: This method involves installing a one-way exit door over the main entry point that allows squirrels to exit but not re-enter. Once all the squirrels have left, seal the opening.

Trapping and relocating: If you choose this option, make sure to use humane traps and release the squirrels at least five miles from your home in a safe location. Be aware that if there are baby squirrels, they must be released with their mother.

Repellents: There are various animal repellents available in the market that claim to deter squirrels. While some may work temporarily, others may not have any effect at all. It’s best to do your research and use natural repellents like predator urine or bright lights, which are known to have some success in keeping squirrels away.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional wildlife removal service before attempting any eviction methods. They can advise you on the most appropriate course of action for your specific situation and ensure that all precautions are taken to protect both you and the squirrels.

Wrapping Up

While squirrels may seem like harmless creatures, they can cause significant damage when they take up residence in your attic. By taking preventative measures, detecting their presence early on, and using humane eviction strategies, you can effectively tackle squirrel infestations and protect your home from future invasions. So don’t let those pesky squirrels get the upper hand – use these prevention, detection, and eviction strategies to keep them at bay.

Remember, prevention is key, but if you do find yourself with unwanted squirrel guests, handle the situation carefully and humanely for the best results. Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured squirrel removal service in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. We serve residential and commercial customers at the most competitive prices around. Ask us for free advice and estimates, anytime!

Effective Strategies for Skunk Removal

Posted on August 17, 2023 by smokywildlife

Skunks, with their distinctive black and white coloring and pungent odor, can be a real nuisance when they decide to take up residence in your yard or under your house. Their scent marking is not only unpleasant but can also pose a threat to pets and small children. If you’re in a situation where these creatures have made themselves a little too at home, it’s time to implement a few effective skunk removal strategies.

This blog post will provide you with comprehensive insights into skunk control and introduce you to some safe and effective skunk repellents. Let’s embark on this journey to reclaim your space from these unwelcome guests.

Call 615-610-0962 For Skunk Removal in Nashville TN

Identifying a Skunk Infestation Problem

The first step to skunk removal is properly identifying the problem. You must assess the situation and determine whether you have a single skunk or an entire family living on your property. This will help you determine which strategies are best suited to address your particular problem and allow you to devise a more effective plan of action.

Humane Skunk Removal Methods

Since skunks are typically non-aggressive animals, it’s best to try and remove them using humane methods. You can set up a live trap near the entrance of their den and bait it with food such as sardines or tuna. Once the skunk is trapped, you can release it in an appropriate location far away from populated areas.

Another humane option is to use exclusion techniques such as fencing or one-way doors. By blocking off the entrance of their den, you can force them out while also preventing them from returning. This strategy does require patience as it may take a few weeks for the skunk to find an alternate place to live.

Safely Controlling Nuisance Skunk Populations

It’s not enough to simply remove the skunks from your property. It’s important to also take steps to limit their population growth by implementing a few preventive measures. For starters, you should practice good sanitation and eliminate any sources of food that may attract skunks. This includes pet food, bird seed, unsecured garbage bins or compost piles. You should also plug up any holes or tunnels in the ground where a skunk could make a den.

Skunk Repellent and Deterrents

There are various commercial skunk repellents on the market such as ammonia, predator urine or motion-activated sprinklers. Once applied, these products can effectively drive away skunks and discourage them from returning. You can also use homemade skunk repellent such as a mixture of vinegar and water, garlic or cayenne pepper spray. When sprayed near the entrances of burrows, these solutions are just as effective in preventing skunks from entering your property. However, you may need to reapply the solution every few days for it to remain effective.

Professional Wildlife Control Assistance

If all else fails, you may need to call in professional animal removal and control company help. A qualified wildlife removal expert can take the necessary steps to humanely trap skunks and remove them from your property. They can also provide long-term solutions for keeping them away. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill a skunk under any circumstances – unless you are properly and legally licensed to do so.

Safety Considerations

It’s important to keep safety top of mind when dealing with wild animals such as skunks. Make sure to wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and gloves and keep your distance when removing the skunk from its den. Additionally, never attempt to handle a skunk or transport it in your car as this can lead to serious injury. If you have any questions about skunk removal or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact a certified Tennessee wildlife expert near Nashville. With their help, you can quickly and safely get rid of any unwanted skunk visitors.

In Conclusion

By applying these tips and strategies, you should be able to address your skunk problem with ease. Remember to take preventive measures to stop skunks from returning and use humane methods whenever possible for skunk control. With the proper steps in place, you can reclaim your property and keep it safe from these smelly pests. Skunks may be unpleasant, but they don’t have to be permanent residents of your property. By taking the time to research skunk removal strategies and implementing them correctly, you can reclaim your space and keep it safe from any future intruders.

Get rid of your nuisance skunk problems with our advanced critter control solutions! Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed skunk removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee, and surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Smoky Wildlife Control

Free Animal Removal Estimates 615-610-0962

Category Archives: Wildlife Removal