For anyone who has seen the cult-classic movie The Princess Bride, capybaras might bring to mind “Rodents of Unusual Size,” the giant, fanged rat-creatures inhabiting the film’s Fire Swamp. While adult capybaras aren’t nearly as big or ferocious as the R.O.U.S., they’re certainly an arresting sight, at least for those of us used to smaller rodents like rats, mice and guinea pigs. But unlike the R.O.U.S., capybaras aren’t a fantasy animal. They’re very real, and they make their home in certain parts of the United States as well as regions of Central and South America. In fact, capybaras have recently been spotted in Florida, which has made some scientists wonder what impact they will have.

Will Capybaras Become Orlando’s Next Pest?

While not indigenous to the United States, capybaras are sometimes kept as pets in the U.S., and some of them have been sighted in Florida rivers and swamps. Florida’s capybara population … Read Full Post »

Both humans and wildlife can agree on one thing: Florida is a great state in which to live. However, animals can become a nuisance in new neighborhoods. Unfortunately, in these areas, animals can become injured when they are hit by cars. In these cases, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organizations serve an important role.

Orlando Wildlife Rescue Groups

Rescue groups can help capture animals caught in bad situations, take care of their health issues, and when possible, release them back into the wild in areas where they can live out their lives safely.

Types of Wildlife In Florida

Because of our temperate climate and plenty of water and food resources, Florida is home to a wide range of wildlife. Below is just a handful of the many different animal species that we are fortunate to have in our area:

• Bald Eagles
• Florida Panthers
• Scrub Jays
• Manatees
• Key Deer
• Read Full Post »

When you think of bats, do you imagine vampires sucking your blood or scary Halloween decorations? If so, you might want to reconsider those preconceived notions. Bats are very misunderstood mammals that don’t hurt humans or our pets. On the contrary, these creatures serve a vital role in our ecosystem.

The Benefits of Bats

Let’s learn more about the different types of bats in Florida and the important function they serve. Once you learn how amazing bats are, you might want to encourage them to move into your backyard!

Facts About Bats

Bats are small winged mammals of the order Chiroptera and can be found throughout the world. Their forelimbs (arms) have webbed wings, and they are the only mammals that can maintain true flight.

The vast majority are insectivores, meaning they eat flying insects. Some species eat fruit and nectar. Only a few rare species eat living creatures other than insects. Out of … Read Full Post »

Did you know that it’s Rodent Awareness Week 2016?

Every year, the National Pest Management Association sponsors a Rodent Awareness Week to educate homeowners about some of the most cringe-worthy pests — rats and mice. Rodent Awareness Week is the perfect time of year to learn what will keep mice away and what will repel rats so you can get them out of your home.

In Orlando, it isn’t uncommon to find rodents or their droppings around decks, storage sheds, attics, or the roof. Our customers often ask us how to get rid of rats on their own. This can be tricky without the help of an exterminator. But there are a few things that homeowners should know before calling in a professional.

Why & When Do Rodents Move In?

Rodents will enter a person’s property for one or both of the following reasons: food & shelter during winter. While mice and rats find their way onto … Read Full Post »