Michigan’s natural beauty comes with a price—raccoons in the attic, squirrels in your walls, or bats in the chimney. If you’re a homeowner in Michigan, wildlife intrusions aren’t just annoying; they pose serious health and property risks. That’s where expert wildlife removal and animal pest control in MI step in to protect your space.
In this guest post, we’ll explore why wildlife control is critical, what to expect from professional services, common pests in Michigan, and how homeowners can stay ahead of animal invasions without putting themselves—or the animals—in harm’s way.
Many homeowners attempt DIY removal tactics—setting traps, using repellents, or blocking entrances. However, wildlife removal is not only a complex task but often a legally regulated one. Without the right tools, knowledge, and permits, you could endanger yourself or break state wildlife laws.
Professional wildlife control technicians are:
Trained in animal behavior and safe removal techniques
Licensed to handle and relocate wildlife legally
Experienced in structural repairs and exclusion methods
Skilled at identifying less obvious signs of infestations
In short, expert wildlife removal ensures safety, legality, and long-term protection.
Michigan’s mix of forested areas, lakes, and suburbs makes it a prime habitat for nuisance wildlife. Below are the most common species that invade residential and commercial properties:
Known for their intelligence and dexterity, raccoons often break into attics or chimneys to nest. They can damage insulation, wiring, and roofing.
Both gray and red squirrels are notorious for chewing through soffits, fascia boards, and even electrical cables—creating fire hazards.
While bats play a vital role in controlling insects, they can transmit diseases like rabies and leave harmful guano in attics or walls.
Aside from the odor, skunks may burrow under decks or sheds, damaging foundations and lawns.
These animals create extensive tunnels that can compromise the structural integrity of decks, garages, and sheds.
Although less aggressive, opossums can nest in crawlspaces or attics, posing contamination risks.
Pigeons, starlings, and sparrows often nest in eaves or vents, spreading disease and clogging ventilation.
Failing to address wildlife intrusions promptly can lead to serious consequences:
Property Damage: Animals chew, claw, and tear through roofs, siding, wires, and insulation.
Health Hazards: Wildlife carry parasites, bacteria, and viruses—such as histoplasmosis, salmonella, and raccoon roundworm.
Structural Issues: Burrowing animals can weaken foundations and decks.
Unpleasant Odors: Urine, feces, and carcasses left behind create long-lasting smells and sanitation concerns.
Increased Pest Activity: Wildlife infestations can attract fleas, ticks, mites, and secondary predators.
Working with a licensed wildlife control service means more than just removing an animal—it involves comprehensive protection.
Here’s what you can expect:
Professionals will inspect your property to determine:
Type of animal present
Entry points
Nesting locations
Property damage
Depending on the species, experts may use:
Humane live traps
One-way exclusion doors
Relocation strategies (if legal)
On-site deterrents
After removal, crews repair any damage to prevent re-entry and sanitize contaminated areas.
This includes sealing entry points, installing chimney caps, mesh screens, and advising on future prevention.
In Michigan, wildlife control is regulated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Certain animals are protected or require permits for removal and relocation.
For example:
Bats are protected during maternity season (May–August).
Relocating raccoons or skunks often requires DNR authorization.
Lethal control may only be allowed in extreme cases.
That’s why it’s essential to hire certified professionals who are familiar with Michigan’s laws and seasons.
While it may be tempting to try DIY methods, they often fall short and create bigger problems.
DIY | Professional Services |
---|---|
Inexpensive but risky | Legal, humane, and effective |
May misidentify species | Accurate diagnosis of species and behavior |
No guarantee of removal | Comprehensive removal + exclusion |
Potential injury or fines | Safe handling and insured services |
Unless you’re trained in wildlife biology and handling, leave the job to professionals.
When selecting a wildlife control provider in Michigan, look for:
Proper Licensing from the Michigan DNR
Experience in local wildlife issues
Insurance and guarantees
Humane methods and eco-friendly practices
Clear communication and detailed pricing
Reading customer reviews and checking affiliations with organizations like the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA) can also provide peace of mind.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of repairs. Here are a few steps homeowners can take:
Inspect your home seasonally for holes, loose siding, or vulnerable vents
Trim trees and shrubs near roofs or siding
Store food waste in sealed bins
Keep pet food indoors
Install chimney caps and vent covers
Repair foundation cracks or crawlspace gaps
Regular maintenance, paired with seasonal inspections, can go a long way toward keeping wildlife out.
Wildlife is part of what makes Michigan special—but when animals invade our homes, they become pests, not guests. Hiring expert wildlife removal professionals ensures the job is done legally, safely, and permanently. Whether you’re facing squirrels in the attic or skunks in the shed, animal pest control services in MI are your first line of defense.
Act fast, choose professionals, and protect your home for the long haul.