Q: Should I put poison in my attic to deal with an animal?

• <div><p>No, poison isn&rsquo;t the best way to deal with animals in your attic. It&rsquo;s unlikely to completely eradicate the problem, especially if you don&rsquo;t take care of access points. Also, poisoned animals may die and decay in the attic, causing noxious odors. </p><p>Some animals may leave the attic before the poison kills them, which could lead to nearby pets or other wildlife eating the animals and becoming poisoned themselves. Ultimately, it&rsquo;s better to avoid using poison and contact a professional instead.</p></div>

Question 1

Should I put poison in my attic to deal with an animal?

Accepted Answer

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No, poison isn’t the best way to deal with animals in your attic. It’s unlikely to completely eradicate the problem, especially if you don’t take care of access points. Also, poisoned animals may die and decay in the attic, causing noxious odors.

Some animals may leave the attic before the poison kills them, which could lead to nearby pets or other wildlife eating the animals and becoming poisoned themselves. Ultimately, it’s better to avoid using poison and contact a professional instead.

Question 2

Do pest-repellent plants repel all insects and animals?

Accepted Answer

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No, pest-repellent plants can only reduce the number of pests in your garden—they won’t repel all of them. So, for example, a plant like catnip that repels mosquitoes won’t completely eradicate them from your yard.

Question 3

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.

Question 4

What are the benefits of living alongside foxes peaceably rather than removing them?

Accepted Answer

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Unless foxes are a major threat or nuisance, living peacefully alongside them is often better. Reclusive foxes are rarely a risk to humans, and they can help keep rodent populations at bay and boost biodiversity in your yard. Plus, if you are a wildlife lover, there is the simple privilege and pleasure of watching a fox family interact right on your doorstep.

Question 5

Are skunks aggressive?

Accepted Answer

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No, skunks are not considered aggressive and are typically very gentle, mild-mannered creatures. However, when they’re provoked, they do emit their potent spray as a defense mechanism. Skunks are also useful creatures to have near your property since they eat insects and will likely leave you and your pets alone unless they’re startled.