Misinformation and our own lack of knowledge about the temperament, nature, and needs of urbanized wildlife has led to exaggerated fears, particularly of disease, and subsequently to much unnecessary animal suffering. Fortunately, there is no need to resort to painful traps or deadly poisons in our encounters with wild animals. We can, with little effort, learn to peacefully coexist. In fact, armed with some basic knowledge about their habits and little ingenuity, we can outsmart these sometimes pesky critters without bringing harm upon them, nor guilt upon our consciences. 

We must first point out that when coming into contact with wildlife it is important to relax.  A raccoon running through your yard or a fox foraging on your deck is not a call to arms. Do not overreact by assuming that a wild animal in the vicinity is a threat to pets or property. In the vast majority of cases, such animals are gentle, utterly harmless, and likely just passing through. Indeed, most wild animals that has not been desensitized through close contact and feeding are genuinely afraid of humans and will keep their distance. 

Remember, these animals are not with us out of choice, but necessity.  When we force them to move on to other areas in search of food and shelter, they could become the victims of further abuse, traffic, or other dangerous hazards.  It’s important to note that killing one individual critter is not the answer to wildlife related problems.  

Should you choose to live peacefully with these critters, you should avoid close contact or regular feeding, as this will create dependence and desensitize wildlife to humans. In addition, as the animals reproduce, they will stay in the area because you are feeding them, which can quickly overcome the natural sustainable numbers that can peacefully coexist in the area.

If, however, you are truly experiencing on ongoing wildlife conflict which is too much for you or your family to handle, rest assured that there is a way to resolve your problems without resorting to warfare. As with most things, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. There are a few basic and simple things you can do to eliminate the attractions which brought the animals to your home in the first place.