Question 1

How do I keep animals away from my plants?

Accepted Answer

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You can take multiple approaches to keep animals out of your edible landscape. You can use natural repellents such as mint and cayenne pepper to deter them from your garden. You can also build a fence (or opt for a privet hedge) or keep the most enticing plants in a sectioned-off area. The most efficient method of keeping your four-legged guests at bay is to determine what animal it is and create a customized plan for them.

Question 2

What’s the difference between pest control and wildlife removal?

Accepted Answer

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Pest control and wildlife removal are different services. Pest control specialists typically handle insects and bugs, often using chemicals and poisonous sprays for extermination. Wildlife removal professionals, on the other hand, focus on larger animals. They prioritize humane methods like trapping and relocation, using poison only as a last resort. For insect problems, contact a pest control professional; for issues with other animals, an animal or wildlife removal specialist is the correct choice.

Question 3

What scent keeps gophers away?

Accepted Answer

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Like many animals, gophers are bothered by strong scents. Peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and coffee grounds can be used as deterrents against these pests. Similarly, you can try planting lavender, rosemary, sage, geraniums, or pine trees, as these plants all have strong smells that can ward away gophers. While it may be less pleasant to work with, coyote urine scares gophers by tricking the pests into thinking your yard is a predator hot spot.

Question 4

How long does a pest control service last?

Accepted Answer

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A treatment from a pest control service can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of treatment, what pest it’s treating, and what environment you live in. This is why pest control service companies often offer packages where they come out multiple times a year to apply treatment to the outside or inside of your home.

Question 5

Are snake repellents safe to use?

Accepted Answer

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Some snake repellents are risky to use around people and pets because they use the active ingredient in mothballs, naphthalene. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified naphthalene as a carcinogen that can cause damage to the liver, neurological issues, and cataracts.

The Colorado State University Extension suggests there’s not enough conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of snake repellents to recommend their use.