What to do when those cute critters encroach
The San Antonio area is a great place to see wild animals in their native habitats. We’re surrounded by natural areas that harbor dozens of bird, reptile, and mammal species, reminding us that humanity is just one part of a diverse ecosystem. Unfortunately, wild animals occasionally encroach on our property and necessitate a response from homeowners or trained professionals. It’s important to understand how to deal with such activity without overreacting.
What Animals Tend to Live Among Us?
There are plenty of resident critters in central and south Texas. The ones that tend to do best among people include:
- Opossums
- Raccoons
- Coyotes
- Deer
- Songbirds and birds of prey
Should You Feed the Deer?
Many San Antonio-area homeowners welcome the influx of animals into our neighborhoods. Some even go so far as to encourage their presence by leaving out bird or deer feeders.
While it can be great to watch birds frolic at your feeder or bird bath, feeding large animals like deer might not encourage responsible behavior. Once they feel comfortable in an area, deer can reproduce rapidly and may threaten the gardens and native vegetation that we take for granted here. Many neighborhoods and cities enact feeding bans or restrictions for this reason. Others may engage in periodic hunts to thin large herds. However, there’s some controversy about the effectiveness of this tactic.
Can Wildlife Be a Boon for Property Values?
As it turns out, there’s another side to the wildlife story. While smaller mammals like opossums and raccoons tend to be viewed as nuisance critters, other animals may actually boost property values. A recent study found that homes in areas populated by songbirds can be significantly more valuable—all other things being equal—than homes in areas that aren’t as popular with songbirds. Likewise, the presence of deer may actually provide an incentive for homeowners to move to farther-flung neighborhoods.
Learn More About Wildlife Control in San Antonio
Whether you’re dealing with a specific wildlife problem or just want to be prepared for a potential threat in the future, it’s important to understand the best practices and latest thinking on wildlife control. We’re proud to employ professionals with years of experience in this critical field and are happy to provide you with the guidance and support you need as you face down issues on your property. To learn more about what we can do for you, call us or fill out our online contact form.