Wildlife Control In The Forest

Many times people dream of having a cabin in the woods but wonder how they will deal with wildlife control. While living in the city or suburbia, the only animals that humans regularly see are cats, dogs, birds and pet turtles. Occasionally, an urbanite or suburbanite may run into a house mouse or two in their highly developed neighborhoods, but true wildlife often remains far away in more rural or wooded areas. The densely populated regions of cities and neighborhoods full of tract homes have usually been cleared away of wild animal habitats; but this isn’t true in the forest. What’s a cabin owner to do?

One of the first things that a new forest dwelling human should know is that they will now likely share the territory with animals. Coexisting is the best option in order for everyone to live harmoniously. Does that mean inviting wildlife into your home or property? Certainly not. But there are more moderate ways to adapt to the natural habitat. Here are a few examples of animals that humans may see around their cabin and tips on what to do about them.

Skunks: Skunks usually only come out and prowl the premises in the evening hours. The best way to avoid run-ins with these potentially smelly creatures is to walk the dogs and hike at earlier times of the day. Skunks spray when threatened so as long as you and your dogs are not disturbing their turf, no problems will ensue.

Deer: Deer families are harmless except that they like to nibble on flower gardens and the like. When planting items on your property, either surround it with a deer proof fence or plant items that they won’t eat or disturb. Be careful driving at night because they may suddenly appear in your headlights. Neither of you want that to happen. Drive cautiously at night and the deer will stay safe and your car will remain un-crumpled.

Javelina: The javelina is a wild boar that roams in packs in the forest. They are odd looking, prickly, and quite protective of their clan. They are also more active after dark, so, just as with the skunks, keep yourself and dogs out of their pathway. It’s also wise to keep birdseed and other food items out of their reach or you may be inviting unsuspecting visitors.
When humans move to the forest, the best form of wildlife control is with some good common sense and animal etiquette. Then all species can co-habitate together happily ever after.