Humane Wildlife Control in Richmond, VA
The Humane Wildlife Control Society recommends non-invasive solutions to resolve human-wildlife conflicts. This includes:
Determining if the issue needs to be addressed at all
Opting for preventative measures first
Opting for wildlife exclusion as opposed to trapping
If trapping is the only way to solve the problem do so humanely
The Humane Wildlife Control Society screens candidates prior to recommendation. Our process requires any company we recommend to meet the following criteria:
Is properly licensed in Virginia for wildlife control
Carries appropriate business licenses and insurance
Complies with all Virginia laws and regulations for wildlife control
Adheres to the humane principles listed above.
In Richmond, Virginia we recommend Humane Wildlife Removal Richmond for professional wildlife control services. This is a private company that charges for their services.
Contact Information:
Wildlife Removal Richmond
804-621-7450
If you have any wildlife issues that can be handled by the state government agency for free, the Virginia Wildlife Commission can help.
State Contact Information: (804) 367-1000
The State Department of Agriculture may also be able to address your wildlife problem for no charge.
USDA Contact Information: (804) 786-3501
Humane Trapping and Exclusion in Richmond, Virginia
As part of our commitment to animal welfare and community safety, this guide provides comprehensive information on humane trapping and exclusion methods in Richmond, Virginia. Our goal is to educate residents, property managers, and wildlife control professionals on the most effective and compassionate approaches to managing wildlife conflicts.
Understanding Humane Trapping
Humane trapping involves capturing animals in a safe and non-injurious manner, with the primary goal of releasing them unharmed. In Richmond, Virginia, humane trapping is regulated by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR) and the Richmond City Code.
Types of Humane Traps
Live traps: These traps capture animals alive, without causing harm. Live traps are available in various sizes and types, including box traps, cage traps, and humane mouse traps.
Exclusion traps: These traps allow animals to leave a property but prevent them from re-entering. Exclusion traps are often used in conjunction with sealing entry points.
Best Practices for Humane Trapping
Check local regulations: Familiarize yourself with VDWR regulations and Richmond City Code regarding humane trapping.
Choose the right trap: Select a trap that is suitable for the target species and the situation.
Use bait wisely: Use bait that is attractive to the target species, but avoid using bait that may attract non-target animals.
Check traps frequently: Check traps at least twice daily to ensure that captured animals are released promptly.
Release animals safely: Release captured animals at least 5 miles away from the capture site to prevent re-infestation.
Exclusion Methods
Exclusion involves sealing entry points to prevent animals from entering a property. This approach is often more effective and humane than trapping.
Types of Exclusion Methods
Sealing entry points: Use hardware cloth, expanding foam, or steel wool to seal holes and gaps in buildings, walls, and fences.
Installing one-way doors: Use one-way doors to allow animals to leave a property but prevent them from re-entering.
Using repellents: Use humane repellents, such as predator urine or hot pepper sprays, to deter animals from entering a property.
Best Practices for Exclusion
Inspect properties thoroughly: Identify all entry points and vulnerabilities in a property.
Use durable materials: Use materials that can withstand weathering and animal attempts to re-enter.
Install one-way doors correctly: Ensure that one-way doors are installed correctly to allow animals to leave safely.
Monitor properties regularly: Regularly inspect properties to ensure that exclusion methods are effective.
Resources
Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR): Contact VDWR for guidance on humane trapping regulations and wildlife management.
Richmond City Code: Familiarize yourself with Richmond City Code regulations regarding humane trapping and animal control.
Local animal control services: Contact local animal control services for professional assistance with humane trapping and exclusion.
By following these guidelines and best practices, residents and wildlife control professionals in Richmond, Virginia, can effectively and humanely manage wildlife conflicts, ensuring a safer and more compassionate community for all.
Additional Resources
VDWR Humane Trapping Guidelines: Download the VDWR humane trapping guidelines for more information on regulations and best practices.
Richmond City Animal Control: Visit the Richmond City Animal Control website for information on local animal control services and regulations.
Humane Society of the United States: Visit the Humane Society of the United States website for more information on humane trapping and wildlife management.
