Humane Pest Control Tips – Living With Wildlife

As residential homes encroach more and more on the homes of wildlife, we are forced to learn how to deal with "pests" (see: What Is Pest Control? for an explanation of what's considered a "pest"). Homeowners have spent a lot of time, effort, and money to figure out how to get rid of rats in the house, how to get rid of house mice, what to do about squirrel control, alongside other types of rodents, raccoon, skunk, bats, and insects as well. They come into our homes because, well, because homes are comfortable and warm and a great place to get away from the elements. Obviously they can cause a great deal of damage - but rather than simply killing them, there are several humane pest control methods that can help you to repel, deter, and manage them.

Goals of Humane Pest Management

There are several things you can do as a homeowner to deal humanely with pests (and if you need help, there are companies that specialize in humane rodent and pest control too). The goals are to:

• Find an eco-friendly way to manage pests, meaning that there are no poisons or toxins used;

• Find a way to minimize stress to the animal, and ideally prevent injury;

• Encourage the animal to move elsewhere (so that the problem doesn't start all over again);

• Find methods that are financially viable - that is, they shouldn't cost more than it would to simply kill any pests that make their way into the home.

The problem areas of the home are typically roofs, attics, and basements. Those of us who live in colder climates may also notice that fall and winter are also the time when the problem may become worse, as animals seek shelter from the cold.

Steps Involved in Pest Control and Management

• Figuring out where in the home the problem occurs;

• Figuring out where the animal is entering the home;

• Determining what type of pest it is - knowing wildlife, insect or rodent types makes it easier to figure out an appropriate course of action;

• Removing the pest(s) (for instance, by the use of humane traps);

• Inspecting the affected areas and determine whether or not repairs will be needed (and if so, what type / scope);

• Sealing all entry points to try to prevent the problem from happening again.

Humanely removing pests can be done in most cases... however, preventive pest control is even better! If you live in an area where pests are known to be an issue, taking steps now to deter them from entering your home is better than having to deal with the problem after it's already happened.

This site offers information and tips for residential homeowners seeking to use humane pest control methods. Each type of wildlife, rodent or insect has its own concerns so tips on each are offered separately.