What should I do if I find a raccoon in my attic?
Do not attempt to remove it yourself. Raccoons are strong, intelligent, and can be aggressive. Call a professional wildlife control service. In New Mexico, raccoons cannot be relocated due to rabies concerns; trapping and euthanasia are standard. The technician will remove the animal, then seal all entry points to prevent return.
How do I know if I have bats in my house?
Signs include small, dark droppings (guano) that accumulate in piles, a strong ammonia odor, and scratching or squeaking sounds at dusk or dawn. Bats often enter through gaps in rooflines or vents. If you have bats, do not seal the openings until you consult a professional—trapping them inside can be illegal and dangerous.
Can I use mothballs to repel squirrels?
No. Mothballs are not registered for wildlife repellent use, and they are ineffective against squirrels. They also pose a health risk to humans and pets if inhaled. The only effective long-term solution is exclusion: seal all entry points and remove attractants like bird feeders.
Is it legal to trap and relocate wildlife in New Mexico?
Generally no. Relocating wildlife is prohibited without a permit because it can spread disease and disrupt ecosystems. Most nuisance animals (raccoons, skunks, opossums) must be euthanized if trapped. Squirrels may be released on the same property with landowner permission. Always check with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish before acting.
How long does a typical wildlife exclusion take?
The sealing process itself takes 1–3 days, but the entire exclusion process (including monitoring with one-way doors) usually takes 1–2 weeks. After animals are confirmed gone, the final sealing is completed. Cleanup and restoration can add additional time.
Does homeowners insurance cover wildlife damage?
It depends on your policy. Many standard policies exclude damage from pests, including wildlife. However, some policies cover certain perils like fire caused by chewed wires. Check with your insurance provider. Professional wildlife control is usually an out-of-pocket expense, but prevention is far cheaper than repairs.
What does a inspection terms that vary by provider include?
A technician will inspect your attic, crawl space, basement, and exterior roofline for signs of wildlife activity, entry points, and damage. They will identify the species involved, assess the severity, and provide a written estimate for removal, exclusion, and cleanup. There is no obligation.
How can I prevent squirrels from chewing my deck?
Squirrels gnaw to wear down their teeth. To protect your deck, apply a taste deterrent like bitter apple spray (reapply after rain), install metal flashing around posts, and ensure no food sources (bird feeders, fallen nuts) are nearby. For persistent problems, consider professional exclusion.
How much do homeowners typically spend dealing with nuisance wildlife?
Usually not much, because most handle it themselves. In the Illinois Natural History Survey's (INHS) 2012 survey of homeowners in the greater metropolitan area of northeastern Illinois, reported in 2013, 51% of 506 people who took action spent under $50, while 18% spent $200 or more. Those are self-reported regional figures from a decade ago, not national benchmarks or current prices. Professional removal sits at the upper end, so get a written scope of work before agreeing to any quote.
How many homeowners have problems with nuisance wildlife?
In one of the few detailed regional surveys, a majority did. The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) surveyed 1,576 homeowners in the greater metropolitan area of northeastern Illinois between July and October 2012 and reported in 2013 that 54% had experienced wildlife problems around their home in the preceding year. That is a single-region result, not a national prevalence rate. Keep a simple log of dates and damage so any professional you consult can work from evidence.