Wildlife

What is wildlife?

Wildlife is the term used for those animals that are found living outdoors in nature. As human habitats have continued to merge with the habitats of many wild animals, these wildlife creatures have learned to successfully live near people. They have even begun to somewhat rely on us and our property for their sources of food, water, and shelter, making them a commonly found pest in Lakewood.

a raccoon crawling on a shingled roof in lakewood new jersey

In our area, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, skunks, and pest birds are all common species of wildlife that regularly cause problems for property owners.

Raccoons
Raccoons are nocturnal mammals and are most often identified by a dark black “mask” of fur that covers their eyes. Raccoons are about the size of house cats. Their bodies are covered in dense fur that is salt and pepper in color, and they have tails that are ringed in gray and black fur.

Opossums
Opossums are the only species of marsupials found living in the United States, and being marsupials means carrying their young in a pouch. Opossums have long, narrow faces covered in fur that is lighter in color than the rest of their bodies. Their bodies are covered in whitish-gray fur and are sprinkled with long guard hairs. Opossums have prehensile (capable of gripping), hairless tails.

Squirrels
Squirrels come in a variety of colors, including various shades of gray, red, or brown. Their bellies are usually lighter in color than the rest of their bodies. Tree squirrels can be identified by their distinctive long, bushy tails.

Skunks
Skunks have black bodies with a single white stripe that starts at their heads, dividing into two stripes that travel down their entire bodies and tails. Their most identifiable characteristic is a foul odor that they spray from glands found at the base of their tails as a defense mechanism.

Pest Birds
Pest birds live in urban, suburban, and rural environments. Pigeons, grackles, starlings, and sparrows are all examples of pest birds. They are difficult to control and eliminate, and can become especially problematic on commercial properties.

Is wildlife dangerous?

Yes, wildlife is dangerous. Wild animals have the potential to carry and spread many diseases through their saliva (rabies), urine, and feces. As their name implies, wild animals are wild; therefore, these creatures are often unpredictable. When these creatures feel threatened or cornered, they won’t hesitate to defend themselves by biting or scratching.

Additionally, wildlife can cause a lot of damage in and around homes or commercial buildings. They burrow under foundations, sheds, garages, and other outbuildings. Wildlife causes damage to lawns, gardens, and trees, and create unsightly messes by digging through trash cans and compost bins. When living in your home, wildlife can cause structural damage, destroy personal items, and contaminate food.

Why do I have a wildlife problem?

Wild animals are highly attracted to properties that offer them quick access to food, water, and shelter. They forage for food in gardens, bird feeders, compost piles, trash cans, outdoor eating areas, and your pet’s food bowl. Once living on your property,  they will eventually find their way inside of your home while foraging for food. They may also move inside your home to nest in a safe, temperature-controlled environment.

Where will I find wildlife?

Wildlife is found living outside in a variety of places. Trees, shrubs, bushes, along riverbeds, near streams, under decks and porches, and on top of roofs, are all common wildlife habitats. When wild animals move indoors, they take up residence in dark, quiet places away from a lot of activity. Inside wall voids, attics, basements, chimneys, and crawlspaces are common wildlife nesting spots.

How do I get rid of wildlife?

To eliminate current problems with wildlife, as well as prevent future problems, it is best to partner with an experienced professional. At Bugaboo Pest Control, our professionals provide customers with the residential or commercial pest control services needed to solve your unique wildlife problem. To learn more about our full-service extermination services that are offered throughout New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and northern Delaware, contact Bugaboo Pest Control today!

How can I prevent wildlife in the future?

There are many ways that wild animals in New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and eastern Deleware may find their way onto your property.

Dealing with wildlife animals like raccoons, opossums, skunks, squirrels, or even pest birds? The following tips can help deter wildlife from your home and yard:

  • Fix holes along the roofline, at roof intersections, and any other large openings that lead into your building.
  • Make sure outdoor garbage cans and compost bins have locking lids.
  • Repair any loose window screens and install chimney caps.
  • Trim back tree branches from the exterior of your building.
  • Pick up uneaten pet food between feedings.
  • Keep outdoor eating areas cleaned up and well maintained.
  • Remove bird and other wild animal feeders from your property.
  • Get rid of excess woodpiles, rock piles, and piles of debris from your property.
  • Place wire mesh around decks, sheds, and similar structures to prevent critters from burrowing underneath.

    Call Us For A Free Quote

    Complete the form below to request your free quote.