Hopefully, if you have a wildlife conflict, you’ll be able to resolve it yourself with the tips on this page. However, if you find you need to hire a wildlife professional, make sure you find one that uses humane and effective techniques.
Ask for an Inspection and Written Estimate
Companies should be able to give you an overview of services and fees over the phone. During the on-site visit, make sure the company identifies to you:
- The animal(s) causing conflict, if unknown
- All entry points, both existing and potential
- If the animal has babies
- How they came to the above conclusions
Most companies will, and all should, provide pictures to explain how the animal is using a structure and what needs to be repaired to ensure the structure is wildlife-proof.
Ask for Specific Details on How the Company will Handle the Animals and the Underlying Issue
Request specific details about how the intrusion or problem will be resolved and how the animal(s) will be treated. Will the animal be killed, and if so, why? Are there offspring that will be orphaned or abandoned? Will the method used resolve the problem for the long-term?
Insist on Humane Techniques
If an animal is inside a structure, insist on the use of guaranteed eviction/exclusion strategies, such as one-way doors and/or hands-on removal and reunion of families that will ultimately lead to their release outside of the structure.
Prevent Future Conflicts
Make sure that the company provides a full range of animal-proofing/exclusion services that carry at least a one-year guarantee against re-entry. The job is not complete until the identified access points have been effectively refitted with exclusion material that will stand up to challenge by wildlife.
Be Aware of Unethical Fees or Practices
Never sign a contract that contains an open-ended clause allowing a company to charge for removal of any and every animal that can be trapped on the property. This is an unethical practice and will not solve conflicts for the long-term.
Referrals
Obtain a referral for the company from one of HAP’s endorsed wildlife rehabilitator, Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh, or another local humane society.
Make Sure the Company is Licensed and Insured
Request written assurance that the company’s practices are in compliance with federal, state and local laws and regulations. Make sure that the company carries commercial liability insurance and any required licenses.
Please note, Humane Action Pittsburgh (HAP) is not a wildlife rescue and is unable to address concerns or assist with wildlife emergencies. Please utilize the resources on our website to find the appropriate organization to contact. Submissions to HAP through our contact form or email will not be able to be addressed.