Wildlife Control Operators (WCO) are highly trained technicians licensed by the government to solve problems caused by human-wildlife conflicts. We are specialists who can safely and humanely capture, transport, and dispatch an animal, and repair and prevent the damage they caused from occurring again.
What Does a Wildlife Control Operator Do?
Knowledgeable in many aspects of animal life, a wildlife control operator is trained to identify, locate, humanely remove, repair, and exclude wildlife from living within our homes or on our property. A WCO has to understand the biology of different species, their habits and needs, signs of their presence, and the damage they cause. In addition, a WCO must be adept at matching up the proper removal tactic to get the job done while causing the animal and client as little stress as possible.
Whether a homeowner needs raccoon removal, bat removal, squirrel removal, or bird control, an effective WCO will have the right tools and training to accomplish the task.
How To Choose A Wildlife Pest Control Operator
Many wildlife control operators work independently for themselves, but there are many larger companies in the wildlife management industry that maintain a staff of well-trained specialists you can call upon as well.
It would be difficult for any wildlife control company to accurately assess and price a job over the phone. Most companies offer inspections, and some offer free inspections. During an onsite visit, the wildlife control operator will be able to identify the animal posing the issue, put together a plan for its removal, and provide you with costs.
You can find referrals for wildlife control operators with local animal control, wildlife rehabilitators, and state government directory listings.
When initially vetting a professional wildlife removal company, look for:
- If they are licensed and insured
- If they are a single operator or a company
- How long they have been in business
- If they have positive or negative reviews
- If they have before and after images
During an initial call, ask questions such as:
- Are inspections free, or is there a cost?
- Will the cost of the inspection go towards the work?
- How soon can they come?
- Are their methods humane?
- Do they guarantee their work?
While the wildlife control professional is on your premises for the inspection, ask:
- Will they inspect the entire house?
- How will they share their findings? Do they provide you with photos?
- Do they have a good understanding of the animal?
- Can they articulate the problem?
- What is their solution?
- When will the work start?
- How long will it take?
After the inspection, make sure you find out:
- Where the animal damage is
- How the animal gained entry
- What the plan is to trap, remove, and exclude the nuisance animal
- How their pricing structure works
- When the work is accomplished
- What financing options are available
It is always advisable to be an informed consumer, learning as much as possible prior to making a commitment to purchase services. Asking questions is the best way to arrive at an appropriate choice for your wildlife removal situation.