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A Homeowner’s Guide to Austin Wildlife

When most people think about wild animals, they imagine wildlife in secluded or wooded areas. However, there are plenty of different types of wildlife roaming the streets of Austin. Since some creatures can be dangerous, homeowners should be familiar with the wild animals sharing their city.What Types of Wildlife Live in Austin?In addition to a wide variety of birds, there are several small wild animals living in Austin. Opossums, squirrels, deer, foxes, coyotes, groundhogs, rats, mice, moles, skunks, raccoons, bats, and snakes are reported frequently. Some people also report seeing armadillos occasionally. Beavers, muskrats, weasels, iguanas, gophers, and porcupines have been sighted, but are rarer than the previously mentioned animals. Some types of wildlife are more common in certain areas of the city.Which Animals Pose a Threat to Homeowners?

Homeowners should be concerned about the animals that can be considered common pests. Animals such as deer, coyotes or skunks are not likely to take up residence in a person’s yard. However, raccoons, opossums, bats, mice, rats, moles, and pesky birds are creatures that are likely to consider themselves permanent residents. Some of these pests can be hazardous to a family’s health. Raccoons and bats are known for spreading rabies. Although there is a small chance opossums may carry rabies, they are known for spreading tularemia, salmonella, and tuberculosis. Mice and rats can also carry viruses and diseases such as tetanus, leptospirosis, and hantavirus. Some birds are known for spreading West Nile to mosquitoes and mosquitoes can then spread West Nile to humans. Moles and gophers are not known for being aggressive. However, they are famous for destroying yards.

While some residents may enjoy helping Austin wildlife by leaving food outside, it is important to refrain from feeding any wild animals. It will only encourage pests to invade a person’s yard or home and some people who mean well may find themselves paying fines for their feeding practices. Austin even has a city ordinance that makes feeding deer illegal. To eliminate the hassle of pests taking over, call ABC Home & Commercial Services for fast service. We are one of the leading companies offering effective and affordable pest control in Austin.

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