CHICAGO, ILLINOIS WILDLIFE CONTROL COMPANY

Q&A with Local Franchisee Brad Reiter

What are some of the most common wildlife issues that homeowners face in your area?
Animals in attics, under stoops, patios and decks. Animals tearing up lawns, damaging home siding and roofs. Beavers chewing on trees.

How do the seasons affect wildlife activity in your area?
Winter hibernation affects business, as cold weather slows animal activity.

What are some common signs of nuisance wildlife activity?
Noises in the home. Trails through attic insulation. Holes in the ground, or sod being rolled. Visual footprints on downspouts.

When should homeowners call Critter Control?
Homeowners should call at the first sign of animal activity.

Pest & Wildlife Problems in Chicago

In cities like Chicago, raccoons often survive on a diet of garbage and pet food left outdoors. They may take up residence in attics, crawl spaces, garages, and chimneys. Not only do raccoons make loud thumping and chittering noises when they den indoors, but having them around is a health risk. Raccoons across the state test positive for raccoon roundworm, a parasite that may be life-threatening to people and pets. They are also rabies carriers.

While bats are an important part of the ecosystem, their presence in homes is not safe. If accidentally sealed inside, a bat in the attic often moves into living spaces in search of a way out. This can lead to a dangerous situation for residents. Some bats in Cook County carry a strain of the rabies virus.

Squirrels break into Chicago attics to escape cold weather and raise their young. Once indoors, the pests will gnaw on walls, insulation, and wiring. Their constant chewing can damage property and even create a fire hazard. A squirrel may also shelter fleas and ticks in their fur.

Norway rats and house mice are common in Chicago. These pests sneak into houses, contaminate food, and leave behind their germ-ridden droppings. A Norway rat or house mouse can spread diseases to people, especially through their waste or parasites. Salmonellosis and plague are only a few of the illnesses these pests can carry.

Despite the tall buildings and urban bustle, Chicago, IL, harbors plenty of wildlife. One of the most common animals is the rock pigeon, which roosts on manmade structures. The pests visit yards and patios in large flocks looking for food or a place to rest.

Wherever these birds gather, residents will notice an excessive amount of droppings. Pigeon poop can kill plants and ruin paint on vehicles and buildings. Their waste also spreads diseases such as toxoplasmosis, salmonellosis, and histoplasmosis.