Expert Wildlife Removal
Humane Animal Control

Yes. All professionals in our network use humane live trapping and exclusion methods. Animals are captured unharmed in live traps, then relocated to appropriate natural habitats far from residential areas. We never use poison, glue traps or kill traps. For animals like bats and birds, we use one-way exclusion devices that allow them to leave but prevent re-entry, eliminating the need for trapping entirely.

Common signs include: scratching, scurrying or thumping sounds especially at dawn/dusk, chewed wires or wood, droppings in attic or insulation, strong urine odor, visible entry holes in soffits or roof, stains on ceilings from urine, displaced insulation, and nesting materials. You might also see animals entering or leaving at dusk. If you hear sounds or notice any of these signs, schedule a free inspection immediately to prevent further damage.

"Animal control" typically refers to government services that handle stray domestic animals (dogs, cats) and occasionally dangerous wildlife. "Wildlife removal" specialists are private professionals trained specifically to handle wild animals (raccoons, squirrels, bats, etc.), perform exclusion work and repair damage. For nuisance wildlife in or around your home, you need a licensed wildlife removal specialist, not municipal animal control.

We strongly recommend against DIY wildlife removal. Wild animals can be dangerous when cornered — they bite, scratch and carry diseases like rabies. Improper handling can result in injuries or disease transmission. Many states require licenses to trap and relocate certain species. DIY attempts often fail because people miss entry points or don't understand animal behavior. Professional wildlife specialists have the training, equipment and licenses to remove animals safely and effectively.

Common wildlife diseases include rabies (raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes), leptospirosis (rodent urine), histoplasmosis (bat and bird droppings), roundworm (raccoon feces), hantavirus (rodent droppings), and various parasites (fleas, ticks, mites). Animal droppings and urine can contaminate insulation and living spaces. This is why proper cleanup with protective equipment is essential after wildlife removal. Never handle wild animals or their droppings without professional training and equipment.

Simple removals (one animal, easy access) can be completed in 1-2 visits over a few days. More complex situations with multiple animals or difficult access may take 1-2 weeks. Bat exclusion typically takes 3-7 days for the exclusion process, though sealing work continues after. Complete service including removal, exclusion, cleanup and repairs usually spans 1-3 weeks depending on project scope. Emergency removals for animals in living spaces are typically handled same-day or within 24 hours.

Wildlife exclusion is the process of sealing all potential entry points to prevent animals from entering your home. This includes installing chimney caps, screening vents, sealing gaps in soffits and fascia, repairing holes in roofs and siding, and sealing foundation cracks. Proper exclusion is the only permanent solution to wildlife problems — removing animals without exclusion means new animals will simply move in. All exclusion work should be guaranteed against re-entry.

We prioritize humane relocation whenever legally permitted. Most animals are live-trapped and relocated to appropriate natural habitats at least 10 miles from residential areas. However, some states have regulations prohibiting relocation of certain species (like raccoons) due to disease concerns. In those cases, animals may need to be euthanized humanely according to state guidelines. Your wildlife specialist will explain the legal requirements in your area during the inspection.

Most standard homeowners insurance policies do NOT cover wildlife removal costs or damage caused by wildlife (chewed wires, torn insulation, contamination). However, some policies cover sudden damage resulting from wildlife — like a raccoon falling through a ceiling. Water damage from holes created by animals might be covered. Review your specific policy or contact your insurance agent. Even if not covered, preventing further damage by addressing wildlife problems quickly will save money long-term.

Do not touch or move the baby animal. Mother animals often leave babies while foraging and will return. If you find baby animals in your attic during removal, professionals will reunite them with the mother outside whenever possible before sealing entry points. For orphaned or truly abandoned babies, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator — not a removal service. Never attempt to raise wild baby animals yourself; it's illegal in most states and the animals rarely survive.

Prevention requires three steps: exclusion (seal all entry points with professional-grade materials), sanitation (remove food sources like pet food, bird seed, garbage), and habitat modification (trim tree branches away from roof, remove brush piles, secure trash). Install chimney caps, vent screens and foundation barriers. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can deter some animals. Professional exclusion work is the most important step — without proper sealing, new animals will simply replace the ones removed.

Yes, especially after long-term infestations. Animal droppings and urine contain parasites, bacteria and diseases that contaminate insulation and create health risks. Damaged insulation also loses its R-value, increasing energy costs. Professional attic cleanup includes removing contaminated materials, sanitizing surfaces, applying antimicrobial treatments and replacing insulation. While it adds cost, cleanup eliminates health hazards, improves air quality and restores your home's energy efficiency.

Wildlife removal can be done year-round, but timing matters. Avoid removal during birthing seasons (spring/early summer) when babies may be present — it's inhumane and babies left behind will die and cause odor problems. Fall is ideal for bat exclusion (after babies fly, before hibernation). Winter is good for most other animals before spring breeding season. However, if you discover wildlife in your home, don't wait — immediate action prevents further damage regardless of season.

HouseGini wildlife removal services are available in over 500 cities across the United States. Call (339) 229-6099 to check availability in your specific area. Our network is constantly expanding to serve more communities.