Scarsdale's beautiful natural surroundings, with extensive tree cover and proximity to wooded areas, provide ideal habitat for various wildlife species. While many animals are beneficial to the ecosystem, when they invade homes and properties, they become pests that require professional removal.
From bats in attics to birds in chimneys, wildlife infestations can cause significant damage and pose health risks.
Our network of licensed wildlife control professionals provides comprehensive removal services throughout Scarsdale and Westchester County. We handle the full range of wildlife pests using humane, effective methods that comply with New York State regulations.
Common Wildlife Pests in Scarsdale
Several wildlife species commonly cause problems for Scarsdale homeowners:
Bats
Bats often roost in attics, behind siding, and in church steeples. While beneficial for eating insects, their droppings (guano) can accumulate and create health hazards, and their urine can damage insulation.
New York State DEC provides guidance on bat conservation while managing conflicts with humans.
Tree Squirrels
Eastern gray squirrels and red squirrels commonly nest in attics and wall voids. They cause extensive damage by chewing electrical wiring, tearing insulation for nesting, and creating entry points that allow water intrusion.
Raccoons
Clever and adaptable, raccoons are among the most problematic wildlife species. They rip shingles to access attics, tear out vents, and raid garbage cans.
They can also carry diseases including rabies and raccoon roundworm.
Opossums
These nocturnal marsupials seek shelter under decks, in sheds, and occasionally in attics. They eat pet food, raid garbage, and can transmit diseases like leptospirosis.
Skunks
Skunks burrow under foundations, decks, and sheds. While their spray is the most recognizable problem, they can also transmit rabies and carry fleas that infest pets.
Birds
Pigeons, starlings, and house sparrows nest in building eaves, chimneys, and vents. Their droppings can damage building materials, create slip hazards, and transmit diseases including histoplasmosis.
Why Professional Wildlife Removal is Essential
Health Risks
Wildlife animals can transmit numerous diseases to humans:
- Rabies: Fatal if untreated; transmitted through bites or scratches
- Histoplasmosis: Respiratory disease from bird and bat droppings
- Lyme Disease: Carried by deer ticks that feed on wildlife
- Salmonella: From contamination of food and surfaces
- Raccoon Roundworm: Rare but severe neurological disease
Property Damage
Wildlife causes extensive damage to homes:
- Chewed electrical wiring (fire hazard)
- Damaged insulation and drywall
- Entry holes that allow water intrusion
- Contaminated insulation from droppings and urine
- Damaged gutters, vents, and siding
Legal Considerations
Many wildlife species are protected by law. For example, bats are protected in New York State and cannot be killed—they must be excluded humanely.
Our professionals understand these regulations and ensure compliance while effectively resolving wildlife problems.
Our Wildlife Control Approach
Our pest control professionals follow a comprehensive wildlife management approach:
Inspection and Assessment
We identify the species present, locate entry points and nesting sites, assess the extent of damage, and develop a customized removal plan.
Humane Removal
We use humane methods to evict wildlife, including:
- One-way exclusion devices that allow animals to exit but not re-enter
- Live trapping for certain species (where legal)
- Habitat modification to encourage animals to leave
Exclusion and Repair
Removing animals is only part of the solution—we seal entry points to prevent return:
- Seal holes and cracks in foundations and walls
- Install chimney caps and vent screens
- Repair damaged roof shingles and flashing
- Install wildlife-proof gutters and guards
Sanitation and Restoration
We address contamination from droppings and urine, and can recommend professionals for insulation replacement and other restoration needs.
Contact Our Scarsdale Wildlife Control Specialists
Wildlife infestations require immediate attention—the longer animals remain, the more damage they cause and the greater the health risks. Our professionals are ready to help restore safety to your Scarsdale property.
Call (844) 578-2840 to reach wildlife control specialists serving Scarsdale and the surrounding Westchester County communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Control in Scarsdale
Can't I just trap and release wildlife myself?
In New York State, relocating wildlife is generally illegal without a permit. Additionally, simply trapping animals without addressing entry points leads to new animals filling the territory.
Our professionals provide comprehensive solutions that prevent recurrence.
How do I know if I have wildlife in my home?
Signs include scratching or thumping noises (especially at night), droppings in attics or basements, damaged vents or shingles, foul odors, and sightings of animals entering or leaving your home.
Are wildlife pests dangerous?
Many can bite or scratch when threatened. More importantly, they transmit diseases and create health hazards through their droppings and parasites.
Professional removal is always recommended.
What happens to the animals after removal?
Our methods focus on exclusion—allowing animals to leave on their own through one-way doors or encouraging them to leave through habitat modification. This complies with wildlife regulations and is the most humane approach.
How can I prevent wildlife problems?
Seal all entry points larger than 1/4 inch, keep trees trimmed away from your roof, secure garbage cans, eliminate outdoor pet food sources, and install chimney caps and vent covers.