Squirrel Removal Deer Park Squirrel removal in Deer Park, TX is an important topic for homeowners who start hearing scratching sounds in the walls or notice movement in the attic during early morning hours. Deer Park’s residential neighborhoods, mature trees, and nearby green spaces create an ideal environment for squirrels…Squirrel Removal Deer Park Squirrel removal in Deer Park, TX is an important topic for homeowners who start hearing scratching sounds in the walls or notice movement in the attic during early morning hours. Deer Park’s residential neighborhoods, mature trees, and nearby green spaces create an ideal environment for squirrels to nest and travel between rooftops. While they may look harmless outside, squirrels can quickly become a serious problem once they get inside a home. In this playlist, AAAC Wildlife Removal of TX Gulf Coast shares insights into how squirrel activity typically starts and what signs to watch for. Common indicators include scurrying noises in ceilings or walls, chewed wood or wiring, and small entry holes near rooflines, soffits, or vents. Squirrels are agile climbers, which allows them to easily access attics where they build nests and raise their young. AAAC Wildlife Removal of TX Gulf Coast focuses on humane and effective squirrel removal methods designed to protect both the property and the animals. The process usually involves a detailed inspection, identifying entry points, safely removing the squirrels, and using exclusion techniques to seal off access areas. This helps ensure that once the squirrels are removed, they do not return and reestablish themselves inside the structure. This playlist is designed to help residents of Deer Park, Texas better understand squirrel behavior and the importance of professional wildlife control. Whether you are currently dealing with an active squirrel issue or looking to prevent future infestations, AAAC Wildlife Removal of TX Gulf Coast provides reliable guidance and practical solutions to keep homes and businesses safe, quiet, and free from unwanted wildlife. More on Sound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal/sets/raccoon-removal-deer-park On YouTube: AAAC Wildlife Removal of TX Gulf Coast provides professional and humane squirrel removal services in Deer Park, Texas. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal 726 Gou Hole Rd Baytown, TX 77523 832-662-7677 Website: https://txgulfcoast.aaacwildliferemoval.com Email: txgulfcoast@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbOS5l-xSWQIho_arDIY52Q Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaacwildliferemovaltxgulfcoast/ Twitter: https://x.com/ric79352 SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaactxgulfcoast Blogger: https://aaactxgulfcoast.blogspot.com/ WordPress: https://aaactxgulfcoast.wordpress.com/ Tumblr: https://aaacwildliferemovaltexas.tumblr.com/
“Chocolate, avocados, onions, and moldy foods are some of the most poisonous items you can leave out for squirrels. Even small amounts of these everyday ingredients can cause serious health issues—or be fatal—for these sensitive rodents.” Squirrels may look harmless scampering across your fence or chasing each other up a…“Chocolate, avocados, onions, and moldy foods are some of the most poisonous items you can leave out for squirrels. Even small amounts of these everyday ingredients can cause serious health issues—or be fatal—for these sensitive rodents.” Squirrels may look harmless scampering across your fence or chasing each other up a tree, but when they show up in your attic or tear through your garden, that charm disappears fast. In leafy neighborhoods where parks are close by and backyard bird feeders are everywhere, it’s no surprise that squirrels are regular visitors—and sometimes uninvited tenants. While many people enjoy watching them or even tossing out food, what you leave behind can actually be dangerous to squirrels—and a bigger headache for you without proper squirrel control . This article isn’t about harming wildlife. It’s about knowing what food is poisonous to squirrels so you don’t accidentally invite them in or make them sick. If you’ve been leaving out scraps, filling feeders, or composting without thinking twice, there’s a good chance you’re creating a squirrel buffet without even realizing it. Let’s break down what to avoid, what to secure, and how to protect both your home and the squirrels from a bad encounter. What Is The Most Dangerous Foods for Squirrels? Chocolate and Caffeinated Products Chocolate is one of the most toxic substances you can accidentally leave out for squirrels or any rodent. It contains theobromine—a stimulant that these small animals can’t metabolize effectively. Just a small amount from a brownie, chocolate almond bar, or sugar-filled candy can trigger tremors, elevated heart rate, or seizures in squirrels. Since they have such fast metabolisms and tiny bodies, the toxic effects hit hard and fast, often with serious consequences. Caffeinated foods and drinks are equally dangerous. Coffee grounds , soda spills, or chocolate-covered espresso beans tossed into a compost pile can be life-threatening if a squirrel gets into them. Where outdoor parties and backyard BBQs are common, it’s easy for sugary or caffeine-rich snacks to end up where rodents roam. To keep squirrels safe and your property clear of unwelcome visitors, make it a habit to clean up thoroughly and store all sweet or stimulant-laced foods securely. Avocados Avocados contain persin, a fungicidal toxin found in the fruit’s skin, pit, and even its leaves. While persin might not harm humans, it can be toxic to many animals, including squirrels. The risk isn’t just in eating an avocado—squirrels that nibble on a discarded peel, chewed seed, or exposed pit can experience digestive issues or worse. What makes this even more concerning is how easily avocado waste can be overlooked, especially in compost bins. If you’re growing avocado trees or preparing guacamole from scratch, this is something to stay mindful of. As urban farming and composting become more popular, the risk of accidentally exposing squirrels to this toxic fruit increases. Make sure avocado scraps are properly sealed or discarded, and if you have a tree, regularly clear fallen fruit from the yard. It’s better to be safe than to unknowingly poison a local animal. Onions, Garlic, and Spicy Foods While these aromatic kitchen staples may keep your chili full of flavor, they spell serious trouble for squirrels. Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia and other health complications. The danger extends to cooked dishes, too. If a squirrel gets into leftover food seasoned with garlic or onions, even in small amounts, it can suffer lasting effects. In worst cases, repeated exposure can be fatal over time. Spicy foods also pack a punch that squirrels can’t handle. Hot sauce remnants, chili powder, or discarded tacos can cause severe digestive distress. Where spicy dishes are a staple, food waste often ends up in outdoor bins or compost piles. Make sure spicy scraps are stored in critter-proof containers, and avoid tossing seasoned leftovers near your patio or yard. The goal isn’t just to avoid harming squirrels—it’s to stop inviting them altogether. Alcohol and Fermented Fruit Alcohol might seem like an unlikely threat to wildlife, but squirrels are highly sensitive to it. Whether it’s beer spills from a tailgate, wine left out on the porch, or sugary cocktails left on patio tables, these drinks can lead to disorientation, slowed reaction time, and eventually liver failure in squirrels. Their small bodies can’t handle even trace amounts, and it doesn’t take much to put them in serious danger. Another sneaky culprit? Overripe or fermenting fruit, especially in backyards with peach, fig, or persimmon trees. As the fruit falls and begins to break down, it can release natural alcohols that attract squirrels and get them intoxicated. They may stagger, fall from trees, or become easy prey for predators. Regularly clean up fruit from the ground and keep alcoholic beverages secure during outdoor events. Salty Snacks and Chips Salt is another ingredient that can easily disrupt a squirrel’s internal balance. While humans can handle a salty snack during a football game or backyard hangout, squirrels don’t process salt well. Even a few bites of junk food like chips, pretzels, or salted walnut snacks can dehydrate them and overwork their kidneys. These types of treats also contain added sugar and artificial ingredients that offer zero nutritional value for squirrels—making them both harmful and useless from a dietary perspective. Many of these items—especially sugary breakfast cereals or processed snack mixes—are casually dropped or tossed outside without much thought. But to a hungry squirrel, that forgotten bowl of cereal or spilled trail mix is a full meal. Where outdoor events, food trucks, and weekend cookouts are part of the culture, squirrels quickly learn where the good stuff is. Cleaning up sugary crumbs and sealing snack waste tightly are easy steps that help discourage squirrels from turning your yard into their favorite buffet line. Surprising “Healthy” Foods That Still Poisonous To Squirrels Not all squirrel-dangerous foods are obviously harmful. Some look totally natural or even nutritious—but for squirrels, they can cause more harm than good. These foods often show up in gardens, bird feeders, compost piles, or well-meaning attempts to “feed the wildlife.” Here’s what to watch for. Raw Corn (Especially Moldy Corn) Corn might seem harmless—it’s a common ingredient in bird seed, livestock feed, and even human snacks. But when corn starts to mold, it can develop aflatoxins, which are highly toxic to squirrels and many other animals. Aflatoxins are produced by certain types of fungi and can affect liver function, immune systems, and even lead to cancer in wildlife. A squirrel doesn’t have to eat much moldy corn for it to cause serious internal damage. The risk goes up during warm, humid stretches—especially in summer—when moisture speeds up mold growth. Corn that’s left outside for too long, stored improperly in feeders, or tossed into compost piles can quickly become a hidden hazard. If you’re putting out corn in a feeder, store it in a dry place, change it frequently, and never offer anything that smells off or looks discolored. It’s not just about nutrition—it’s about safety. Bread and Processed Carbs Bread might feel like a safe, throwaway snack for critters—but it’s actually a poor and potentially harmful food choice for squirrels. Bread, crackers, and other refined carbs offer little to no nutrition, and they can expand in a squirrel’s stomach, leading to bloating or discomfort. In some cases, processed bread products contain preservatives and additives that are hard for squirrels to digest, weakening their system over time. Squirrels that eat too much bread often end up malnourished despite feeling full. This is especially common in neighborhoods where residents leave out food “just to be nice.” Unfortunately, the kindness backfires. Instead of helping, you may be attracting squirrels that grow dependent on an unhealthy food source—and more likely to take up permanent residence in your attic. If you want to be squirrel-friendly, stick to natural deterrents and avoid the bread basket. Peanuts (Especially Salted or Moldy) Peanuts are a bit of a wildcard. While they’re often seen in squirrel food blends or used to lure wildlife for photos, they aren’t actually nuts—they’re legumes. And when they’re salted, roasted, or worse, moldy, they become a serious risk. Moldy peanuts, like corn, can carry aflatoxins that attack a squirrel’s liver and immune system. Salted peanuts, on the other hand, can cause dehydration and kidney stress. This matters because many people use peanuts to feed birds or squirrels without realizing the risks. In fact, some birdseed mixes from big-box stores still include them. If you’re trying to keep squirrels away from your yard—or avoid poisoning them by accident—skip the peanuts. And if you must use them, go for raw, unsalted, and fresh, and use a squirrel-proof bird feeder so your effort to help one species doesn’t endanger another. Foods That Attract Squirrels (But Shouldn’t) Some foods might not be poisonous, but they’re basically neon signs saying “Free Snacks Here!” for squirrels. These attractants can lead to more frequent visits, nesting, and eventual infestations. If you’re trying to squirrel-proof your yard or keep them from invading your home, these are the items to manage carefully. Bird Seed and Pet Food Bird feeders are one of the top culprits for squirrel problems. Many blends contain sunflower seeds, millet, corn, and peanuts—aka squirrel candy. Once they find a reliable food source, squirrels will return again and again, sometimes destroying the feeder in the process. The same goes for pet food left outside. Dry kibble and wet food alike are high-protein, calorie-dense meals that squirrels will happily devour. Where backyard birdwatching is popular and outdoor pet bowls are commo
Center, Internet, Wildlife Damage Management Newsletter of The Wildlife Society Wildlife Damage Management Working Group Interactions: Volume 14 Issue 1 Winter 2008 Date of this Version 2008 Document Type Article Abstract New Board Members Selected; Feel like You’ve Been There Before? Letters F Rom Art; New Publications: HWC Volume 2-1…Center, Internet, Wildlife Damage Management Newsletter of The Wildlife Society Wildlife Damage Management Working Group Interactions: Volume 14 Issue 1 Winter 2008 Date of this Version 2008 Document Type Article Abstract New Board Members Selected; Feel like You’ve Been There Before? Letters F Rom Art; New Publications: HWC Volume 2-1 Now Available; Call For Posters: 23rd Vertebrate Pest Conference; Decision 2007! Election Results - Meet the New Board Members; Calls From The Field (Or A House, Or A Farm, Or A…); 23rd Vertebrate Pest Conference San Diego California; 2008 National Conference On Feral Hogs; Call for Papers: 2008 National Conference on Feral Hogs; Call for Papers: Habitat and the Predation Process A Special Symposium at the 2008 TWS Meeting; Human-Wildlife Conflict In The News; Recent Wildlife Damage Management Research; The Wildlife Society Wildlife Damage Management Working Group; Upcoming Meetings, Conferences, And Events; DOWNLOADS Since November 09, 2010 COinS
United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Jitender Dubey , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Follow Peter C. Thompson , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Jitender Dubey , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Follow Peter C. Thompson , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Larissa S. de Araujo , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Aditya Gupta , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Sasha Kay , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Oliver C. H. Kwok , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Jaquin Battle , United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Kyle R. Van Why , United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services Follow Justin D. Brown , Pennsylvania State University - Main Campus Benjamin Rosenthal , United States Departament of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory Follow Document Type Article Date of this Version 2024 Citation Veterinary Parasitology: Regional Studies and Reports (2024) 54: 101086 doi: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101086 Abstract Trichinella infections have been eliminated from pork where pigs are raised in biosecure facilities, but wildlife infections persist. Trichinella murrelli is the primary zoonotic species in wild carnivores in the United States, having been identified in several species of omnivores and carnivores. Here, we document its occurrence in seven of 21 (33.3%) red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes ) from six counties in Pennsylvania. Encysted Trichinella juveniles were detected in muscle squashes (< 5 g samples) of all seven foxes, and in histological sections of the tongue and limb muscle of three. Juveniles from muscle squashes were pooled and tested in a multiplex PCR capable of differentiating all Trichinella species native to the USA; all samples contained only T . murrelli . This is the first identification of T . murrelli in red foxes from Pennsylvania, and the first such survey performed in the last three decades. Results indicate that Trichinella remains endemic in Pennsylvania wildlife and a threat to the health of those who consume wild game. DOWNLOADS Since November 23, 2024 Included in Natural Resources and Conservation Commons , Natural Resources Management and Policy Commons , Other Environmental Sciences Commons , Other Veterinary Medicine Commons , Population Biology Commons , Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Commons , Veterinary Infectious Diseases Commons , Veterinary Microbiology and Immunobiology Commons , Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons , Zoology Commons COinS
United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Accessibility Remediation If you are unable to use this item in its current form due to accessibility barriers, you may request remediation through our remediation request form . Kelly F.…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Accessibility Remediation If you are unable to use this item in its current form due to accessibility barriers, you may request remediation through our remediation request form . Kelly F. Robinson , US Geological Survey, Georgia Fish and Wildlife Unit, Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens GA Travis O. Brenden , Quantitative Fisheries Center, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, Lansing MI Alex Maguffee , Quantitative Fisheries Center, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, Lansing MI Charles R. Bronte , US Fish and Wildlife Service, Green Bay Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, New Franken, WI Randall M. Claramunt , Michigan Department of Natural Resources Thomas R. Cooper , US Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Migratory Bird Management Robin L. DeBruyne , USGS Great Lakes Science Center, Ann Arbor, MI Brian S. Dorr , US Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Mississippi State University MS James F. Farquhar , New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Jana R. Lantry , New York State Department of Environmental Conservation James R. Jackson , Cornell Biological Field Station, Cornell University, Bridgeport, NY David G. Fielder , Michigan Department of Natural Resources Rachel L. Pierce , US Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Migratory Bird Managemen Doug Schultz , Michigan Department of Natural Resources ORCID IDs Kelly Robinson - 0000-0001-8109-9492 Travis Brenden - 0000-0002-4373-1503 Brian S Dorr - 0000-0001-6857-8560\ James Farquhar - 0000-0003-3388-612X David Fielder - 0000-0002-7278-986X Jana Lantry - 0000-0002-3310-7926 Document Type Article Date of this Version 9-2026 Citation Robinson, K.F., Brenden, T.O., Maguffee, A. et al. A decision analytic approach to hierarchical decisions for double-crested cormorant conflict resolution. Environ Syst Decis 46 , 81 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10669-026-10071-4 Abstract Double-crested cormorants ( Nannopterum auritum ) are piscivorous, migratory waterbirds that often conflict with fisheries interests in North America, stemming from depredation effects on fish populations. A new permitting process in the United States allows natural resource agencies to request permits for lethal take of cormorants in special instances like depredation of managed fish stocks. This rule does not include guidance for when cormorant take might be actionable. We developed a hierarchical structured decision making (SDM) framework for evaluating whether, when, and how much cormorant take might be necessary. A broad-scale, or “umbrella,” SDM framework established the overarching problem, objectives that likely are relevant for permitting decisions (i.e., minimizing loss of ability to harvest fish and sustaining cormorant presence on the landscape), and methods for evaluating the extent of management that might be necessary. A local-scale SDM process can then be applied for individual systems to determine the need for and magnitude of a permit request. We provide an example of such a local-scale SDM process for Brevoort Lake, Michigan, United States, where walleye ( Sander vitreus ) are sustained through stocking. We found that decisions for cormorant permitting on Brevoort Lake were influenced by uncertainties about the level of cormorant feeding on walleye, per capita level of daily cormorant consumption, number of days the cormorants spent feeding on the lake, and number of walleye stocked in the lake. This case study highlights the importance of uncertainty and risk in decisions for cormorant management, both of which can be accounted for more fully within the SDM framework. DOWNLOADS Since October 30, 2026 Included in Natural Resources and Conservation Commons , Natural Resources Management and Policy Commons , Other Environmental Sciences Commons , Other Veterinary Medicine Commons , Population Biology Commons , Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Commons , Veterinary Infectious Diseases Commons , Veterinary Microbiology and Immunobiology Commons , Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons , Zoology Commons COinS
“When a possum is hanging around your house, it usually means it’s found something it needs—like food, shelter, or safety. Your yard might be offering easy meals, cozy hiding spots, or both. It’s not just a random visit; it’s a sign your property is meeting this wild animal’s basic survival…“When a possum is hanging around your house, it usually means it’s found something it needs—like food, shelter, or safety. Your yard might be offering easy meals, cozy hiding spots, or both. It’s not just a random visit; it’s a sign your property is meeting this wild animal’s basic survival needs.” You’re taking out the trash after dark and suddenly spot a slow-moving creature waddling across your yard. Yep, that’s an opossum. And no, it’s not just passing through. If you’ve noticed one lingering around your home more than once—especially if it’s a baby possum or part of a group—it’s likely found something it likes, like food, shelter, or both. In warm climates, a possum encounter isn’t unusual, especially in neighborhoods with lush landscaping, fruit trees, and mild winters. So what does it actually mean when an opossum sticks close to your property? On a practical level, it could be a sign your yard has become an easy food source or a comfortable hiding place. For those curious about spiritual meaning, some believe a possum encounter symbolizes adaptability, resourcefulness, or a warning to pay attention to your surroundings. Whatever your perspective, understanding why they show up—and what keeps them coming back—is the first step to protecting your home, pets, and peace of mind. If you’re searching for possum removal near me , the local pros at AAAC Wildlife Removal are here to help. Let’s break down what’s really going on and how to handle it the smart, humane way. Learn more: Will a porch light keep possums away? Why Is a Possum Hanging Around Your Property? If a possum is hanging out near your house, it’s not random—there’s a reason it picked your place over someone else’s. Possums are opportunistic foragers that look for easy meals and safe shelter, especially in areas where dense vegetation and warm temperatures create the perfect environment. Leftover pet food, unsecured trash bins, fallen fruit, or compost piles can all act like neon signs saying “Dinner’s Ready.” Beyond food, your home may also be offering prime real estate for a possum to rest, hide, or even raise babies. Think loose crawlspace panels, open attic vents, or stacks of firewood left undisturbed. Many homes unknowingly provide these quiet, shaded hiding spots that possums love. And once they’ve found a good spot, they’ll return night after night. Why Is a Possum Hanging Around Your Property? 1. Your Yard Offers an Easy Meal Possums are natural scavengers, and your property might be serving up dinner without you realizing it. Leftover pet food on the porch, unsecured trash cans, fallen fruit, or even compost piles can all draw a possum in. Where fruit trees and outdoor living are common, this is one of the top reasons possums stick around. 2. Shelter Is Readily Available Beyond food, possums are looking for safe, quiet places to hide during the day. Open crawlspaces, attic vents, and undisturbed woodpiles make excellent shelters. If your home offers multiple hiding spots, it’s like a luxury suite to a wandering possum—especially in neighborhoods with dense greenery. 3. It Found a Spot It Likes—and It’s Coming Back Possums are creatures of habit. If they’ve discovered your yard provides both comfort and convenience, they’ll return night after night. Without intervention, that curious visitor can quickly become a full-time, uninvited guest. Is It Dangerous to Have a Possum Nearby? Possums might not look threatening, and for the most part, they aren’t. These nocturnal creatures are shy and more likely to play dead or retreat than stand their ground. However, their presence around your home can still be a real nuisance. From rustling through garbage cans and pet food to thumping in your attic at night, possums bring noise, mess, and unwanted stress to your otherwise peaceful property. The bigger concern is what they leave behind. Possums can carry fleas, ticks, and parasites, which may spread to your pets or even into your home. While rare, there’s also a low risk of disease transmission, including leptospirosis and, in isolated cases, rabies. For families with young children, outdoor pets, or small livestock like chickens, the health risks and sanitation concerns make possum removal a smart and necessary step. What Attracts Possums to My Yard? 1. Food Sources Left Out in the Open Possums are scavengers by nature, and they’ve got a sharp nose for leftovers. Unsealed garbage cans, cat food left on porches, pet bowls, fallen fruit from citrus trees, and bird seed are all prime attractions. Barbecue scraps, compost piles, and even dirty grills can act as dinner bells for a hungry visitor. 2. Warm-Climate Yards Make Easy Targets In warm climates, outdoor living is a big part of life—and so are the habits that come with it. Many homeowners unintentionally create perfect opossum living conditions just by leaving food or trash accessible. With their low body temperature and excellent foraging skills, possums are well-equipped to thrive in these environments year-round. 3. Shelter Spots Are Readily Available Possums don’t just want food—they need safe, shaded places to hide during the day. Loose crawlspace panels, uncapped attic vents, stacked firewood, and overgrown shrubs all make excellent hiding spots. Once a possum finds a cozy place to rest, especially one that stays cool and quiet, it’s unlikely to leave without a reason. Should I Be Concerned About a Possum During the Day? Seeing a possum during daylight hours can be surprising, but it doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Although this wild animal is typically nocturnal, it might venture out during the day if food is scarce, if it’s been displaced from its shelter, or if a mother is actively searching for her young. Occasional sightings—especially around trash or pet food—aren’t always dangerous, and in many cases, it could just be a possum playing dead or reacting to stress. Still, repeated daytime activity or strange behavior may be a sign of illness, injury, or confusion. Possums may carry parasites and, in rare cases, carry rabies, so it’s smart to avoid direct contact no matter how harmless they appear. Instead of taking risks, call AAAC Wildlife Removal to assess the situation without harming the animal. Our humane, professional approach ensures both your safety and a proper resolution. How to Get Rid of Possums Humanely The key to removing possums from your property is cutting off the reasons they showed up in the first place. Start by sealing garbage bins tightly, bringing pet food indoors overnight, and clearing any fallen fruit or compost piles. Trim back overgrown shrubs, clean up debris, and block access to crawlspaces, attics, and sheds to make your property less inviting. These simple steps go a long way in sending the message that your home isn’t open for possum business. Still, DIY only goes so far—especially with state laws that regulate how possums can be trapped and relocated. That’s where AAAC Wildlife Removal comes in. Our trained wildlife specialists use humane trapping techniques that follow state guidelines, and we provide exclusion repairs so the possum—and others like it—don’t come back. Wherever you are, our local team can remove the problem and restore your peace of mind. Why Call a Wildlife Removal Pro? Dealing with a possum might seem like something you can handle with a flashlight and a bit of patience, but it’s rarely that simple. This marsupial is a surprisingly clever critter that can squeeze through small gaps and adapt quickly to its surroundings. Possums may be mistaken for a rodent or even a raccoon at night, but unlike those pests, they’re protected by wildlife laws in many states that make DIY relocation risky—and often illegal. Hearing noises in your attic or spotting droppings around the porch may be a sign that the problem is bigger than you think. That’s where a professional removal service like AAAC Wildlife Removal makes all the difference. We’re trained, licensed, and deeply familiar with local animal control guidelines, so you don’t have to worry about guesswork. We don’t just remove the pest—we assess the entire property, seal entry points, and implement long-term prevention strategies to make sure the possum, or any other wildlife intruder, doesn’t return. When you want the job done safely and effectively, leave it to the pros who know the terrain. Keep Your Home Possum-Free with AAAC Wildlife Removal Don’t wait until that possum turns your attic into its new apartment. The sooner you act, the easier it is to prevent damage, odors, and sleepless nights. At AAAC Wildlife Removal, we specialize in fast, humane possum removal backed by years of local experience. Our local offices know what attracts possums and exactly how to keep them from coming back. Call us today to schedule your inspection and get a custom removal and prevention plan that actually works. We’re here to protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind—no guesswork, no gimmicks, just expert help when you need it.
United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Date of this Version 2-2018 Document Type Article Citation Marks, D.M. 2018. Mute Swans. Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series. USDA, APHIS, WS National Wildlife Research Center. Fort Collins, Colorado. 14p. Abstract Mute swans (…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Date of this Version 2-2018 Document Type Article Citation Marks, D.M. 2018. Mute Swans. Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series. USDA, APHIS, WS National Wildlife Research Center. Fort Collins, Colorado. 14p. Abstract Mute swans ( Cygnus olor ) are an invasive species originally brought to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for ornamental ponds and lakes, zoos and aviculture collections. Original populations were located in northeastern states along the Hudson Valley but have since expanded to several Midwestern states and portions of the western U.S. and Canada. Mute swan damage includes competing with native waterfowl, destroying native plants, spreading disease, and colliding with aircraft. They are also considered a nuisance in some areas due to their abundant fecal droppings and aggressiveness towards people. Mute swans can impact ecosystems by foraging on native plants and competing with native species for food and habitat. Mute swans forage primarily on submerged aquatic vegetation, and each swan consumes 4 to 8 pounds of vegetation per day. While feeding, mute swans use their feet to expose plant shoots and roots for foraging, and to help dislodge food for cygnets (i.e., young swans). This damages aquatic substrates and vegetation surrounding preferred foods. Mute swans typically consume less than 50 percent of what they remove. Results from one study showed their diet overlaps considerably with many native waterfowl species that overwinter in the lower Great Lakes or temporarily use the area during migration. Mute swans are known for their highly territorial behavior during their breeding season, and may compete with native wildlife for space and associated resources. Of particular concern are potential impacts on threatened and endangered species. During the breeding season, mute swans sometimes displace other native waterfowl from preferred nesting locations, and may kill adult and juvenile ducks and geese. During one incident in Maryland, a large molting flock of mute swans caused a colony of least terns ( Sterna antillarum ) and black skimmers ( Rynchops niger ) to abandon a nesting colony by trampling nests, eggs, and chicks. The mute swans also displaced nesting common terns ( Sterna hirundo ). In 2011 in Michigan, a mute swan nest was found in the middle of a black tern ( Chlidonias niger ) colony that had previously supported approximately 54 black terns in 2009. Only a few black tern nests remained, approximately 30 to 40 feet away from the swan nest. DOWNLOADS Since March 03, 2018 COinS
A study published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry by Oxford University Press reports that widely used flea and tick treatments for dogs and cats may pose a serious threat to insects in the natural environment. Isoxazoline drugs are a relatively new class of antiparasitic medications prescribed by veterinarians around the…A study published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry by Oxford University Press reports that widely used flea and tick treatments for dogs and cats may pose a serious threat to insects in the natural environment. Isoxazoline drugs are a relatively new class of antiparasitic medications prescribed by veterinarians around the world to protect pets from fleas and ticks. Introduced in 2013, they quickly gained popularity because they were the first oral treatments capable of controlling both pests for a month or longer. After pets take these medications, the active compounds pass through their bodies and are excreted in feces. Drug Residues Enter Soil and Ecosystems The European Medicines Agency has previously warned that these substances could contaminate ecosystems, although detailed information about how much of the drugs enter the environment remains limited. The main concern centers on how veterinary parasite treatments might affect species that are not the intended targets. Isoxazolines are designed to kill fleas and ticks, but when treated animals eliminate the drugs, other insects may also be exposed. Research suggests pets can introduce these chemicals into the environment through feces, urine, and even shed hair. Of particular concern are dung-feeding insects such as flies, dung beetles, and some butterflies. These species play a vital role in breaking down waste, recycling nutrients, improving soil quality, and helping control pests. If they consume feces containing the drug residues, they may be harmed. Study Tracks Isoxazoline Residues in Pet Feces To better understand the risk, researchers in France monitored 20 dogs and 20 cats owned by veterinary students. The animals received isoxazoline treatments over a three month period. Scientists collected fecal samples to measure how much of the active ingredients remained and to estimate how much exposure dung-feeding insects could face. The analysis focused on how these medications are eliminated in pet waste. Even after the recommended treatment period had ended, researchers detected two of the four active ingredients commonly found in isoxazoline products in the animals' feces. Potential Impact on Dung Feeding Insects An environmental risk assessment based on these findings suggests that dung-feeding insects could experience high levels of exposure to isoxazoline compounds as a result of routine pet treatments. The researchers warn that this exposure could disrupt important ecological processes and potentially lead to serious consequences for environmental lifecycles.
A parasitic tapeworm previously unknown in the Pacific Northwest is infesting Washington state’s coyotes. The parasite, which lives in wild canids, like coyotes ( Canis latrans ) and foxes, can cause disease if transmitted to humans or domestic dogs. Already common in Europe and Asia, it showed up in Canada…A parasitic tapeworm previously unknown in the Pacific Northwest is infesting Washington state’s coyotes. The parasite, which lives in wild canids, like coyotes ( Canis latrans ) and foxes, can cause disease if transmitted to humans or domestic dogs. Already common in Europe and Asia, it showed up in Canada and the Midwest about 15 years ago. In a study documenting the parasites published recently in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases , researchers from the University of Washington found Echinococcus multilocularis in 37 of the 100 coyotes they surveyed in Washington’s Puget Sound region. “The fact that we found it here in one-third of our coyotes was surprising, because it wasn’t found anywhere in the Pacific Northwest until earlier this year,” said Yasmine Hentati, lead author of the study and former doctoral researcher at the University of Washington, in an interview with the university. The disease is spread through the feces of infected canids, which contain tapeworm eggs. The parasite can also spread to rodents. Hentati said the main way coyotes become infected is by eating infected rodents. In humans, the parasite can cause a severe, often fatal disease called alveolar echinococcosis . The infection causes tumor-like cysts in the liver that can spread to other organs. According to the World Health Organization, alveolar echinococcosis is the third most important food-borne illness globally and one of the top 20 neglected tropical diseases. The researchers called for more wildlife disease surveillance to make sure the tapeworm doesn’t make its way into humans or their pets. Read more at the University of Washington.
Ken Williams, former CEO of The Wildlife Society, has been named as a recipient of the Society’s top award. The honor celebrates a lifetime of achievement in wildlife science and management. “I’m very proud to be in this select group of scientists and conservationists,” said Williams from his home in…Ken Williams, former CEO of The Wildlife Society, has been named as a recipient of the Society’s top award. The honor celebrates a lifetime of achievement in wildlife science and management. “I’m very proud to be in this select group of scientists and conservationists,” said Williams from his home in Virginia. Williams has dedicated decades to federal service, working at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) Cooperative Research Units before pivoting to work in the private sector. Ken Williams Williams is the recipient of the 2026 Aldo Leopold Memorial Award , the highest honor bestowed upon wildlife biologists by The Wildlife Society. The award recognizes wildlifers’ lifetime contributions to the field. “It is unusual to be outstanding as both a scientist and as an administrator-leader,” said Kenneth Burnham, a professor Emeritus at Colorado State University and 2011 recipient of the Aldo Leopold Award. Williams holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mathematics from Oklahoma University. For his graduate studies, he attended Colorado State University for a doctorate in ecology, studying optimal grazing management in salt desert ecosystems. He has published more than 100 scientific papers, including influential works on adaptive management. Williams, a Certified Wildlife Biologist® and TWS Fellow, has a decorated history in federal service. He started his professional career at the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Maryland in 1979, working as a biometrician. After rising in the ranks at the center, he was chosen to be the executive director of the North American Waterfowl and Wetlands Office for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in 1989. Williams oversaw a transformation of North American waterfowl management through the implementation of Adaptive Harvest Management (AHM). “Ken was instrumental in the research and development of this approach, and in collaboration with colleagues, published the seminal papers on AHM,” wrote John Organ, an emeritus scientist at Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units and 2020 Aldo Leopold Award recipient, in his letter of support for Williams’ nomination. In 1990, Williams was appointed to a brief stint as a special assistant to the director of the service and focused on wetland conservation and waterfowl management. Later that year, he became the founding leader of the Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Organ said Williams’ leadership and collaboration skills gave the now thriving program a strong start. “Ken had to build the unit from the ground up,” Organ wrote. Williams then served as the chief of the USGS Cooperative Research Units program for nearly 16 years. This time in his career was especially meaningful to Williams, and he is proud of the accomplishments of the graduate students who worked at the units. While at USGS, Williams created and then became co-director of the Survey’s Science and Decisions Center. The center helps advance the use of science in natural resource decision-making. After retiring from a career in federal service, Williams became TWS’ CEO from 2013 to 2017 during a pivotal time in the organization’s history. He is especially proud of this time and sees it as a capstone to his career. “We gave TWS a new lease on life that it’s been able to carry forward,” he said. After retiring from TWS, in 2017, Williams founded Renewable Resources Associates, a consulting firm that specializes in science-based natural resource analysis and management. “I think that Professor Leopold would have been extremely proud of Ken’s achievements and thanked him for his dedication and career-long contributions to our profession,” said Robert Blohm, a wildlife biologist and former Chief of the Division of Migratory Bird Management at the USFWS. Blohm was often a collaborator of Williams. Williams said he played a large role in selecting some of his colleagues for the Aldo Leopold Memorial Award but never thought he would be considered. “I have a very good idea about how prestigious it is and what it means,” he said. “I was quite surprised and very gratified that my colleagues would recognize my contributions as being worthy of this award.” Article by Olivia Milloway
The National Pest Management Association recently announced that registration is now open for Academy 2026, taking place July 21–23, 2026. The post NPMA opens registration for Academy 2026 first appeared on Pest Management Professional.
Comments on photos entered in citizen science platforms like iNaturalist or eBird can carry useful information about wildlife interactions that aren’t necessarily recorded in the metadata. Now, researchers are using artificial intelligence to quickly sort through photos, finding those online conservations likely to contain information useful to ecologists. “In many…Comments on photos entered in citizen science platforms like iNaturalist or eBird can carry useful information about wildlife interactions that aren’t necessarily recorded in the metadata. Now, researchers are using artificial intelligence to quickly sort through photos, finding those online conservations likely to contain information useful to ecologists. “In many cases, species interactions require direct observation, and that’s really hard to come by simply because you can’t keep a lot of people in the field monitoring the same patch of an ecosystem for 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Hengxing Zou, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Michigan during this research, in a press release. In a study , published recently in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , the team mined iNaturalist comments for data about the interactions between West Coast lady ( Vanessa annabella ) butterflies and plants in California and Mexico. They also examined comments in eBird to learn more about interactions between birds in Michigan. The team used Claude and ChatGPT to successfully extract comments and useful information on both topics. “There’s definitely a lot more information that could be recovered from these kinds of comments, in addition to species interactions,” Zou said. Read more at Earth.com .
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Center, Internet, Wildlife Damage Management Newsletter of The Wildlife Society Wildlife Damage Management Working Group Interactions: Volume 15 Issue 1 Winter 2009 Date of this Version 2009 Document Type Article Abstract See You In Saratoga! Letters from Gary; A Brief Report from The WDMWG Meeting and the 2008 TWS Annual…Center, Internet, Wildlife Damage Management Newsletter of The Wildlife Society Wildlife Damage Management Working Group Interactions: Volume 15 Issue 1 Winter 2009 Date of this Version 2009 Document Type Article Abstract See You In Saratoga! Letters from Gary; A Brief Report from The WDMWG Meeting and the 2008 TWS Annual Conference; New Product Announcement Backyard Wildlife: Vole Control And Ground Squirrel Management Dvd; Publication Announcement Latest Issue of Human Wildlife Conflicts Is Now Available; Conference Announcement Bird Strike North American Conference; Conference Announcement TWS Conference Preliminary Program; New Publication Available 23rd Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings; Calls from the Field (Or A House, Or A Farm, or A…); 2009 Wildlife Damage Management Conference Preliminary Schedule; 2009 Wildlife Damage Management Conference Registration Information; The Wildlife Society Wildlife Damage Management Working Group; Upcoming Meetings, Conferences, And Events DOWNLOADS Since November 09, 2010 COinS
