Understanding the Difference Between Nuisance Wildlife Control and Wildlife

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Rehabilitators: Who to Call and When

When you encounter wild animals in your home, yard, or community, it’s important to know who to contact for help. Two common types of professionals are nuisance wildlife control operators and wildlife rehabilitators. Each serves a distinct purpose, and knowing when to call each can ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animal.

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Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators

• These professionals manage wildlife that poses a threat, causes property damage, or creates safety concerns. Examples include raccoons in attics, squirrels chewing wires, or bats inside living spaces.

• Their goal is to remove, exclude, or relocate animals causing problems, often using humane and legal methods.

• They do not provide medical care for injured or orphaned wildlife.

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Wildlife Rehabilitators

• Wildlife rehabilitators are trained and licensed individuals who care for sick, injured, or orphaned wild animals with the intention of releasing them back into their natural habitat.

• They provide medical treatment, nourishment, and a safe recovery environment for wildlife in need.

• Rehabilitators do not handle nuisance wildlife issues or relocate healthy animals simply because they are in an unwanted location.

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Who to Call and When:

• Call a nuisance wildlife control operator if you have healthy wild animals causing property damage, entering your home, or posing a direct threat to human safety.

• Call a wildlife rehabilitator if you find an animal that is clearly sick, injured, or truly orphaned (for example, a baby bird fallen from its nest or a raccoon hit by a car).

• In cases where you’re unsure, local animal control or your state’s wildlife agency can help direct you to the appropriate professional.

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Understanding these differences helps ensure both your safety and the best possible outcome for the wildlife involved.