Question 1

What should I avoid using when baiting an iguana trap?

Accepted Answer

•

When baiting an iguana trap, several items should be avoided. Do not use poisonous baits, such as those intended for rats or mice. This practice is often illegal, is unlikely to attract iguanas, and poses a significant risk to pets or other wildlife. Additionally, avoid using herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are toxic to iguanas, such as fresh sage, rosemary, avocados, and eggplants. While ripe fruit can be an effective bait, be sure to remove any pits or seeds from fruits like apples, pears, and peaches, as they are highly toxic. Finally, steer clear of citrus fruits, which act as a natural deterrent.

Question 2

Can animals in my attic get into my house?

Accepted Answer

•

As a general rule, if you hear an animal in your attic, don’t assume it will stay there. Animals are drawn to warmth and food sources, which could lead them to other parts of your house. In particular, it’s likely that small pests such as rats and mice that only need tiny gaps to squeeze through will end up in your walls and ductwork. Larger animals like raccoons may be limited to an enclosed attic.

Question 3

What makes skunks so smelly?

Accepted Answer

•

Skunks spray as a defense mechanism to ward off predators. The active ingredient in their sulfurous, oily musk is n-butyl mercaptan, which evaporates into a powerful and smelly gas. Once the spray hits the skunk’s target, the stench can linger for days, and water and common cleaning kits aren’t enough to wash it away.

If you happen upon a skunk in your yard, try to back away slowly to reduce the chance of them aiming at you. Encouragingly, they don’t use their weapon casually, as it can take up to 10 days for their life-saving weaponry to refill. Paw stamping, hissing, lifting their tail, and arching their back are early signs they feel trapped or under threat and that it’s time to make a careful retreat.

Question 4

What is the best homemade raccoon repellent?

Accepted Answer

•

Homemade raccoon repellents can be a cost-effective and humane method for keeping raccoons off your property. Raccoons despise the smell of vinegar, so keeping a bowl of it near your home can keep them away. Some wildlife companies advise using cayenne pepper or hot sauce sprinkled near your deck or porch as another homemade option.

Question 5

Can I remove animals myself?

Accepted Answer

•

DIY animal removal is rarely a good idea and is not advised for many reasons. First, these types of animals can carry diseases and, therefore, pose a health risk to you, your family, and your pets if mishandled. Second, depending on your city or municipality, it may be illegal to remove or handle wildlife yourself.

Sealing your home against these animals yourself is also a bad idea. Trapping an animal under your house will cause odor and insect problems when it passes away.