animal control
Did you know raccoons are responsible for over 30% of reported rabies cases in the U.S.? That’s not something any of us wants near our home. Whether it’s a bat flapping around in the attic or a raccoon digging through the trash, wildlife in the wrong place can be a serious issue.
When problems like these show up, many of us ask: Does animal control actually deal with them? In most areas, the answer depends on the situation. For people looking for help with wild animals in Pennsylvania, the animal control Darby is a reliable starting point. Now let’s break down what animal control really handles, and when it’s time to call in the pros.
What Does Animal Control Actually Do?
Animal control teams work to keep both animals and people safe. But they don’t handle every animal problem out there.
Their main job?
- Responding to dangerous animals
- Removing sick or injured wildlife
- Dealing with strays or lost pets
- Enforcing local animal laws
They often don’t deal with healthy wild animals unless they’re inside homes or creating health risks. So, if a raccoon is chilling in a tree, they’ll probably leave it alone. But if that raccoon gets into a chimney or bites someone, then it’s a different story.
When it comes to bats and raccoons, it’s usually wildlife control pros who step in.
Bats in the House? Here’s What to Do
Bats may look harmless, but they carry diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis.
If there’s a bat in the house:
- Don’t try to swat or catch it
- Close off the room it’s in
- Open windows and doors to the outside
- Keep pets and kids away
Then call a local wildlife expert. In many areas, animal control won’t come out unless someone has been bitten. Bats are protected in most states, so mishandling them can lead to fines. So, animal control Darby utilizes safe and legal removal methods. Some companies, on the one hand, use bat-friendly traps; on the other hand, they may also employ one-way doors. These let bats fly out but not back in.
Bats often hide in:
- Attics
- Chimneys
- Walls
- Under the roof tiles
Calling wildlife pros helps make sure the job’s done right.
What About Raccoons?
Raccoons, on one hand, are clever creatures; however, they can also be aggressive when cornered. They have a fondness for dumpsters, crawl spaces, and open attics.
Here’s when it’s time to act fast:
- A raccoon is active during the day (not normal)
- You see one acting strangely or stumbling
- It’s trying to get into your home
- You hear scratching in the walls or attic
These could be signs of rabies or nesting.
If you’ve ever searched “raccoon removal near me,” you’re not alone. Many local wildlife control teams offer humane raccoon removal. They’ll trap, relocate, and seal entry points to stop future visits.
Need fast help? Look for pros offering:
- Same-day inspections
- 24/7 emergency response
- Licensed and insured technicians
Additionally, keep in mind that raccoons have the potential to damage insulation, wiring, and vents. However, leaving them can ultimately lead to significantly higher repair costs.
When Animal Control Will Step In
Animal control might help in these cases:
- The raccoon or bat is inside your living space
- It’s showing signs of illness or danger
- Someone has been scratched or bitten
- A baby animal is left alone for days
Nevertheless, numerous towns continue to rely on private companies for wildlife cases. Local policies, on the other hand, vary significantly. In some cases, responses will occur only when there is a public safety risk involved.
Always call your city or county animal control office to ask. If they can’t help, they’ll usually recommend a trusted removal service.
Why DIY Removal Isn’t a Good Idea
Trying to handle wildlife on your own can be risky and illegal.
Here’s why we don’t recommend it:
- Rabies risk: One bite or scratch can be deadly
- Bat protection laws: It’s illegal to kill bats in many states
- Trap rules: You might need a permit to trap raccoons
- Safety concerns: Wild animals will defend themselves
Plus, if the animal gets injured, it could become even more dangerous.
It’s safer to let trained experts step in. They know how to deal with the animal and protect your home too.
How Professionals Handle the Job
Wildlife control teams do more than just trap animals. They look at the full picture.
Here’s what a good service usually includes:
- Inspection: Find how and where animals got in
- Removal: Use safe traps or exclusion methods
- Repairs: Seal holes, replace damaged insulation or wiring
- Cleanup: Remove droppings, sanitize the area
If you’ve been Googling “raccoon removal near me,” check reviews and licenses before booking. Look for companies with wildlife permits and humane practices.
They also handle long-term prevention. That means no more raccoons in your attic next spring.
Other Situations They Can Help With
Wildlife control pros don’t just handle bats and raccoons. They can help with a bunch of common animal problems, including:
- Squirrels in the attic
- Groundhogs under the deck
- Skunks in crawl spaces
- Birds nesting in vents
Some companies even help with dead animal removal. That’s super helpful if you smell something strange and can’t find the source.
And if you’ve been locked out of your house while trying to chase out a critter, they may even recommend an animal control Darby to help you get back inside.
Final Thoughts: Know Who to Call
So, does animal control handle bats and raccoons? Sometimes, but not always. For sick or dangerous animals, they may respond. But for most home invasions, it’s up to wildlife control experts.
When it comes to serious wildlife issues, it’s always safer to call professionals. From inspection to cleanup, they take care of the whole job. For those searching for reliable help, Media Animal Control has a solid reputation in the field. With quick response times and safe methods, they’ve helped countless homeowners regain peace of mind.
Don’t wait until animals cause significant damage. If there’s wildlife in or around your home, act fast and stay safe.
