It may seem like taking care of bugs, spiders, mice, and rats comprises a complete approach to pest control, but unfortunately, this is not the case. Regional wildlife can invade central Washington homes. The Yakima County property owners’ complete guide to wildlife control can be helpful in understanding these different types of pests. Our wildlife specialists at Prosite can identify and carefully remove any wild offenders.
Invading Wildlife Of Central Washington
The Evergreen State is home to many animals and birds that may be fun to observe when they’re in their natural habitats. Some species aren’t concerned with boundaries and wind up on or in properties, such as:
- Bats: There are more than a dozen types of bats native to Washington state. These flying mammals are generally dark in color; they have furry bodies and wings.
- Canadian Geese: These waterbirds can be seen flying over central Washington skies in distinct v-formations while their honking can be heard simultaneously. Canadian geese have black heads with white marks on chin areas. Bodies are tan, and feathers are brown. This species may be migratory or may hang around the area all year and become a nuisance.
- Chipmunks: Chubby cheeks, cute faces, and Disney characters may come to mind when thinking of these animals, but they are still rodents. These small mammals have dark stripes down their back and fuzzy tails.
- Marmots: Also called groundhogs or woodchucks, these large rodents are roughly the size of a domestic cat and are known for digging burrows.
- Pigeons: This bird has developed a bad reputation for being a pest. Primarily found in shades of gray, black, and white, pigeons have red eyes.
- Raccoons: These bandits are easily recognizable by the black masks featured around their eyes. The coat color is a shaded mix of black and white. Raccoons can weigh up to 50-plus pounds.
- Squirrels: Tree squirrels are abundant in central Washington. Colors vary, but fur usually comes in shades of gray and brown.
Danger & Damage
One of the essential parts of the Yakima County property owners’ complete guide to wildlife control is understanding the risks that invading pests can present. Squirrels can tear up insulation, HVAC systems, siding, and utility cables.
Raccoons may spread rabies, leptospirosis, and roundworms; they can rip up areas in homes when searching to make dens that cause extensive property damage. Pigeons can be carriers of salmonellosis, toxoplasmosis, histoplasmosis, and cryptococcosis. They can also bring in other pests like fleas.
Marmots can wreak havoc on homeowners’ landscaping and chew up vehicle wiring by crawling up the underside. Chipmunks can pass rabies, plague, and hantavirus. Additionally, these cuties can cause damage by digging under retention walls and patios. Gardens are not safe from chipmunks either.
Canadian geese can make a buffet out of Yakima County lawns. Bats are responsible for histoplasmosis and rabies. These mammals may also roost on-site and, if indoors, can create a foul odor from their waste.
Safely Dealing With Yakima County Wildlife
After watching some YouTube videos, it may seem like approaching intrusive wildlife is doable. However, this action is unsafe as many wild animals become aggressive, especially when they feel threatened. Having trained professionals deal with these creatures is the safest way to go.
Professional Assistance
The final section of the Yakima County property owners’ complete guide to wildlife control concludes with calling wildlife pest specialists. Contact our experienced technicians at Prosite who are uniquely qualified to control problematic wildlife. We start with an inspection and then put a customized wildlife control plan in place.