Our mountain communities offer diverse wildlife, but as we encroach on their homes, it’s crucial to understand how to deal with problems we may cause. This guide provides information on common wildlife problems and how to solve them safely.

General Principles for Wildlife Problems

• Identify the Culprit: If damage occurs at night, it is not a squirrel. Be sure you know which animal is causing the problem before trying a solution.
• Consistency is Key: Any habitat-altering methods must be employed consistently for a minimum of two weeks and monitored closely. If you are not consistent, the animals may become more aggressive and persistent.
• Prevention is Best: The most effective method is to alter their habitat by removing what attracts them.
• Do Not Relocate: We strongly discourage trapping and relocating animals. Removing an animal from its home range simply invites others to move in, often leading to a population increase and more problems than you had before.

What Attracts Wildlife?

• Food: Birdseed, pet food, garbage, compost, fallen fruit, nuts, and berries are major attractants.
• Water: Ponds, birdbaths, and other water sources can draw animals in.
• Shelter: Openings under houses, decks, or sheds, as well as wood, brush, or rock piles, provide ideal den sites.

Common Problems and Solutions

Squirrels

• In the Attic: Find the entry point (females only need a 1.5-inch opening). Wait until the adult leaves during the day and then seal the hole with 1/2-inch wire or sheet metal. If babies are present, wait 6-8 weeks until they can leave on their own.
• In the Chimney: Do not use smoke. If the squirrel is trapped, tie a thick rope to the top of the chimney and lower it to the flue damper. The squirrel will climb out. Afterwards, cap the chimney with 1/2-inch mesh wire.
• In the House: Quietly close all interior doors to limit movement and open a window or exterior door in the room with the squirrel. It will likely find its way out on its own.
• At the Bird Feeder: Place the feeder more than eight feet from any structure. You can also add cayenne pepper to the birdseed; it deters squirrels but does not harm birds.

Raccoons

• In the Attic or Chimney: Encourage the raccoon to leave by increasing activity or placing ammonia-soaked rags in the area. Once you are certain the raccoon has left (wait until after dusk), seal all entry points.
• In the Garage/Garbage: Store all garbage in metal, sealable containers and keep them in a garage or shed. Secure lids with rubber tie-downs to prevent access.
• In Ponds or Gardens: The only permanent solution is exclusion. Consider using an electric fence (low voltage, safe for animals) to protect these areas.

Skunks

• Under Buildings: Check for activity by covering the entrances with loose dirt. If the dirt is undisturbed for a few nights, you can seal the hole permanently. To speed up eviction, place items with a strong scent like unwashed clothes or ammonia-soaked rags in the burrow.
• In Window Wells or Dumpsters: Place a rough board at a 45-degree angle inside the well or dumpster. The skunk will be able to climb out on its own.
• In the Chicken Coop: Skunks are poor climbers but excellent diggers. Secure your coop and extend fencing at least 1.5 feet underground to prevent them from digging underneath.

Odor Removal

• From Pets: The best homemade remedy is a mixture of 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of liquid soap. Wash immediately while the mixture is bubbling, then rinse with water.
• From Your Home or Clothes: Air the house out thoroughly with fans. Spraying a diluted vinegar solution can help neutralize the odor. For clothes, you may need to wash them multiple times or discard them.