Not every wildlife encounter requires a professional wildlife removal service. A garter snake crossing the driveway, a deer at the bird feeder, or a toad that found its way into the garage are situations that resolve themselves with no intervention. But other wildlife situations can escalate quickly when handled incorrectly, and knowing which is which saves time, money, and sometimes genuine risk.
Call a Professional For:
Any Venomous Snake Inside or Near the Home
If you see a snake you believe is venomous, or one you cannot positively identify as harmless, do not attempt to capture or kill it. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes are present throughout Western NC, and most bites occur during handling attempts. Leave the room, close the door, and call for assistance.
Any Bat Inside the Living Space
A bat inside a bedroom or living area, particularly if sleeping people were in the room, is a public health situation. NC public health guidance recommends contacting the county health department for evaluation of potential rabies exposure. Do not release the bat before consulting with health officials.
Any Animal with Young Inside a Structure
Sealing the entry point before the young are mobile results in the juveniles dying inside the structure, creating an odor problem far worse than the infestation itself, and typically requiring opening walls or ceilings to remove the bodies. A professional can assess whether young are present and plan the removal timing accordingly.
Raccoons or Bats in the Attic
Both situations involve significant health risks from droppings, raccoon roundworm and bat Histoplasma, that require careful handling and appropriate equipment. Attic cleanup for these species is not a DIY job.
Any Animal That May Have Rabies
Raccoons, foxes, skunks, and bats are rabies-vector species in NC. An animal that is active during the day, moving erratically, approaching people without fear, or appearing disoriented may be rabies-suspect. Do not approach it. Contact your county animal control or wildlife officer.
Situations You May Be Able to Handle:
- A non-venomous snake in the yard, leave it alone or encourage it out of the area.
- An opossum in the yard at night, it will move on; remove food attractants.
- A bird in the garage, open all exits, turn off lights, and allow it to find its way out.
- Woodpecker damage to siding, physical deterrents applied over the damage area are effective.
When in doubt, a phone call for advice costs nothing. Describing what you are seeing or hearing is often enough to determine whether a professional visit is needed.
