ACTIVE WILDLIFE REMOVAL FAQs

Q: Why is trapping important?

A: Trapping is a very crucial part of wildlife removal and prevention. It is imperative that the problem animal is removed from the equation, before entry points are sealed. Trapping ensures that there are no animals inside the structure before repairs are performed. Without taking this step, an animal could become trapped inside, causing it to try to find another way out. This generally leads to more damage to the home, and/or death to the animal.

Live trapping also ensures that the animal will not come back to the house, and try to get back inside. All animals communicate by scent, and recognize their own nesting areas. Repairing openings without removing the problem animal can lead wildlife to make more entry points.

Q: I’m hearing animal activity, but I don’t know what it is. How will you be able to identify it?

A: Our technicians are licensed and trained to identify all wildlife in Tennessee. Upon inspection, we will look for animal droppings, tracks on ductwork or vapour barrier, nesting, and other sign that will help determine the species. Once the problem animal is identified, a detailed plan will be written up for proper removal and prevention for your home.

Q: Does homeowner’s insurance cover my wildlife issue?

A: In some instances, homeowners insurance will cover damages caused by wildlife. Attic and crawlspace restorations as well as any openings made to the structure of the home by wildlife can be covered. Typically the wildlife species covered under insurance are the more health hazardous species. These include raccoons, skunks, bats, and opossums. Southern Wildlife Services works with all major homeowners insurances to ensure our clients homes are restored to new. We provide before and after pictures of the crawlspace and attic damage, and strive to give the upmost professional service of any wildlife or restoration company.

Q: I smell skunk occasionally inside my home, but I haven’t in awhile. Is my problem gone?

A: A FREE inspection of the crawlspace will always be the most accurate way to answer this question. However, in our experience, once skunks have made residence inside a crawlspace, they will continue to return over and over. Feces, urine, and nesting contamination all work to attract other skunks into the crawlspace. This process works much like a dog with a fire hydrant. Once one skunk has marked its territory, that smell will continue to draw others.

Q: Is feeding wildlife in my yard a good choice?

A: Although feeding wildlife may be fun and entertaining, it can cause quite a few problems. Wild animals have to search for food on their own in nature. Constant feeding can cause wildlife to lose their will to search for their own food, and become dependent on human feedings. This can be harmful to the animals. It can also cause wildlife to take up residence in your own home! A ample food source is great news for wildlife, and they will search for the closest shelter by the food. In extreme cases, we have seen humans seize feeding only to have raccoons ripping and prying at door trim and windows trying to get inside.