Living with wildlife

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Being able to observe wildlife close to home is a treasured experience for many people, but sometimes wildlife can get too close or even cause property damage. Woodchucks in the garden, squirrels or other critters in the attic, bears rummaging through garbage and tearing down bird feeders, and skunks under the shed are but a few of the problems people may encounter. 

There are steps you can take to enjoy wildlife from a distance and reduce the chance that conflicts occur:

R emove food sources - do not feed wildlife. Remove all feeders and suet in the spring and summer, secure or remove garbage immediately and wait until the day of trash pickup to bring it outside, and feed pets indoors.

E liminate cover and shelter close to homes and buildings - remove or recycle piles of junk and stash brush, logs and firewood away from your house or other buildings; mow tall grass near houses or other buildings.

P ut up barriers - use chimney covers and soffit vents, fence in areas such as gardens and underneath decks, and seal entry holes that lead into the house.

E xcite or agitate - use visual repellents such as scarecrows or lights; create noise by yelling or using noisemakers (be sure to check noise ordinances in your area).

L egally remove or “take” - contact a licensed Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) to remove problem wildlife from your property or remove or “take” nuisance animals on your own in accordance with New York state laws and regulations.