Some of the most common species of wildlife that cause problems for Memphis property owners include opossums, squirrels, and raccoons.

Opossums
Opossums have long, narrow faces covered in fur that is light in color, and their bodies are covered in whitish-gray fur and sprinkled with long guard hairs. They also have hairless, prehensile (gripping) tails. Opossums are the only species of marsupials living in the United States.

Squirrels
Squirrels are rodents and have distinctive, bushy tails. Their fur comes in a variety of colors including brown, gray, red, or yellow, and their bellies are usually lighter in color than the rest of their bodies.

Raccoons
Raccoons have a mask of black fur covering their eyes. Their tails have black and gray fur rings, and their bodies have dense, salt and pepper-colored fur. Raccoons are very good at manipulating objects with their hand-like paws.

Is wildlife dangerous?

There is no getting around it: as cute and fluffy as they are, wild animals are dangerous to both people and property. Wild animals carry and transmit a variety of diseases that can make people ill. Additionally, when wild animals are cornered or threatened, they will defend themselves, usually by biting or scratching.
 
Wild animals are quite destructive and will cause a lot of damage to both homes and yards. They dig through compost bins, garbage cans, gardens, and lawns while foraging for food. These animals also tend to burrow under decks, sheds, and foundations, causing costly structural damage. Squirrels, like other rodents, will chew through pipes, wires, and drywall if they find their way into your home.

Why do I have a wildlife problem?

Many wild animals – including opossums, squirrels, and raccoons – live in the same areas that people live. Wildlife will not hesitate to take advantage of food, water, and shelter our yards and homes provide them. Bird feeders, birth baths, gardens, lawns, compost bins, and trash cans are all places where wildlife love to forage for food and water.

Where will I find wildlife?

Wild animals mainly live outdoors in a variety of locations. Opossums live close to rivers, streams, and other water sources. They nest in hollow trees under large piles of brush, in the abandoned burrows of other animals, or inside outbuildings like garages or barns. Squirrels usually nest in trees, but also find their way inside barns, sheds, garages, and homes to nest behind walls and in attic spaces. Raccoons are a common sight in wooded areas, farms, fields, and suburban neighborhoods. They create dens in the ground, under decks or sheds, between rocks, and in hollow trees. Raccoons are a common invader of chimneys.

How do I get rid of wildlife?

If you are looking to get rid of wildlife from your Memphis property, the professionals at Dart Pest, Lawn & Wildlife are here to help. Our EPA-trained and certified technicians will resolve your wildlife worries once and for all! Our affordable ongoing services protect people, homes, and yards from wildlife and our area's most common pests. To learn more about our exceptional residential or commercial pest control services, partner with Dart Pest today!