Wildlife management can be a challenge, especially when the unwanted animals in your yard or home are a problem. But the right tools can make the process safer and more effective. Here’s a guide to essential tools for DIY animal control, to help you deal with wildlife situations responsibly and effectively.
1. Catch Poles
Catch poles are a wonderful tool to safely catch an animal without hurting it. The tools are a long pole with a loop on one end so that you can secure the animal from a distance. Professional grade catch poles can be purchased or you can make your own using PVC pipe and rope for a cheap solution. Make sure the pole is solid and long enough to keep you out of harm’s way but still give you enough control to manage the animal.
2. Live Traps
Animals are best caught live with live traps. There are many sizes of these traps and they are safe to use to contain animals so they can be relocated. When you are aware of the species you are dealing with, be it raccoons, squirrels, or feral cats, choosing traps that are suitable for the species is a must. Make sure the traps are made of tough materials that are well ventilated so captured animals are comfortable until releases.
3. Gloves and Protective Gear
Personal safety is most important when handling wildlife. The thick gloves protect your hands from bites or scratches, and give you a better grip on tools. Moreover, long sleeves and pants protect your skin from potentially stinging or scratching as well. Wear a face mask and goggles if you’re dealing with larger animals or animals whose diseases you may be susceptible to.
4. Animal Carriers
For transporting captured wildlife safely, an animal carrier is important. Select a sturdy carrier that offers good ventilation and is big enough for the animal you are dealing with. Carriers should be easy to clean and secure enough so that carriers do not escape during transport. In particular, this tool is useful for relocating animals to a safe environment away from residential areas.
5. Snares and Ropes
Despite these efforts, snares can be an effective means of controlling certain types of wildlife, but should be used with care and knowledge of local regulations regarding their use. A strong rope can be used for many different purposes—for securing traps, or for handling captive animals safely. Any ropes or snares used should be suitable for the size and strength of the animal being handled.
6. Emergency Animal Rescue Kit
An emergency animal rescue kit is a handy thing to have on hand in case you find yourself in the presence of injured or stray animals. This kit will need to include the following items: things such as a towel or blanket to wrap injured animals in, food (like wet cat food), water bowls, gauze bandages, and the numbers or information for local animal shelters and/or veterinarians[3]. This kit will allow you to act quickly in emergencies if you keep it organized.
7. Cleaning Supplies
If you’ve handled wildlife, it’s important to clean any surface that may have been in contact with animals to avoid spreading disease. Have gloves, trash bags, disinfectants and cleaning cloths ready to sanitize your workspace thoroughly afterwards.
8. Knowledge Resources
And finally, do your homework and know about local wildlife species and humane handling techniques. Other books, online resources and local wildlife organisations will offer help on how to deal with specific situations most successfully.
Finally, having appropriate DIY animal control tools is not only safer but practices humane wildlife treatment as well. Catch poles, live traps, protective gear, carriers, snares, emergency kits, cleaning supplies, and educational resources allow you to respectfully and responsibly manage wildlife encounters in a safe and educated way that promotes coexistence in your community.