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Prevent or Resolve Conflicts with Wildlife
As human populations continue to grow and encroach upon traditional wildlife habitats, interactions between humans and wildlife are becoming increasingly common. This section provides general guidance and strategies for property owners in Virginia facing wildlife issues.
These practical strategies can effectively address the problem and prevent its recurrence, enabling you to proactively manage the situation.
1) If you are currently feeding wildlife, cease this practice immediately. Feeding wildlife can diminish their natural fear of humans, leading to increased human-wildlife conflicts and potential risks for both parties.
2.) Store trash indoors until the morning of collection, or utilize an animal-proof container, such as a metal trash can equipped with latches or a bear-resistant trash receptacle.
3.) Avoid leaving pet food outdoors; keep pet feeding areas clean. Leftover pet food can lure wildlife, leading to possible conflicts and health hazards for both pets and wildlife. Remove bird feeders when problematic species, such as bears, are observed nearby.
4.) Seal all openings beneath and within your buildings. Animals seek out locations to den and rear their young—do not provide them with such opportunities.
5.) Trim overhanging tree limbs and branches that may allow wildlife access to your structures.
Remove fallen fruit from around trees.
6.) Most importantly, share this information with your neighbors. If anyone in the vicinity is feeding wildlife, whether directly or indirectly, it can create issues for the entire community. By collaborating, we can all help foster a safer environment. 7.) Reflective tape, lights, or noise may sometimes deter wildlife; however, they will eventually become accustomed to these deterrents, making them only a temporary fix.
8.) Electric fencing can be highly effective in preventing wildlife from accessing crops, beehives, and buildings.
It is vital to understand that trapping and relocating animals to different areas is illegal in the State of Virginia. Being informed about this law is essential for comprehending the appropriate procedures for managing wildlife conflicts.
If these methods do not resolve your issue, please feel free to contact a member of the Virginia Trappers Association, a licensed trapper, or a wildlife control expert affiliated with the Virginia Trappers Association.
