Why DIY Wildlife Trapping Often Backfires

It’s tempting to think you can handle a wildlife issue on your own — after all, how hard can it be to set a trap and relocate the animal?
Unfortunately, when it comes to wildlife removal, DIY efforts often cause more harm than good — both to homeowners and the animals involved.

At 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control, we routinely respond to situations where well-intentioned DIY attempts have made a small problem much bigger. From raccoons in the attic to squirrels in walls and skunks under porches, proper handling requires the right equipment, training, and understanding of Virginia wildlife laws.

1. Safety Risks

Wild animals are unpredictable — and potentially dangerous when cornered or stressed. Raccoons, squirrels, bats, and skunks can carry diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, or parasites, and bites or scratches require immediate medical attention.
Even seemingly simple species like groundhogs or opossums can inflict serious injuries when trapped improperly.

2. Legal Regulations You Might Not Know About

In Virginia, wildlife removal is regulated by the Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Relocating certain animals without a permit is illegal, and some species have protected seasons or restricted handling guidelines — bats, for example, can’t be excluded during their maternity or hibernation periods.
Violating these laws, even unknowingly, can result in fines or penalties. Licensed Wildlife Control Operators, like those at 10-Eleven, are trained and certified to handle removals legally, humanely, and safely.

3. Incomplete Removal and Re-Entry

Trapping one animal doesn’t mean the problem is solved.
If entry points aren’t properly sealed, or if offspring are left behind, the issue will quickly return — often worse than before. A mother raccoon, for instance, will destroy anything in her path trying to reach her separated young.
Our technicians not only remove wildlife but also perform full-scope exclusion to keep them from coming back.

4. Odor, Contamination, and Damage

DIY trapping rarely addresses what’s left behind: droppings, urine-soaked insulation, and lingering odor. These conditions can attract insects, bacteria, and new wildlife visitors.
10-Eleven offers decontamination and repair services to restore attics, crawlspaces, and property areas after wildlife removal — ensuring your home stays safe, sanitary, and protected.

Leave It to the Professionals

When wildlife gets too close for comfort, it’s time to call in the experts. Our licensed Wildlife Control Operators understand species behavior, legal requirements, and humane trapping techniques that keep you, your family, and the animals safe.

Don’t let a DIY project turn into a bigger problem — contact 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control for professional removal and long-term prevention.

540-838-1601 | www.10elevennwc.com