How Much Does Wildlife Removal Cost?

Wildlife Removal Costs by Type

There are a wide variety of animals that nest in and around the home, each with different removal methods and cost ranges. Some municipalities offer free removal services via government-funded animal control agencies, though this is typically limited to domesticated animals and some large wildlife like feral cats.

Rodents

Rodent removal costs $175 to $550, depending on accessibility and infestation severity. Pest control experts choose between live trapping and poisons when dealing with rats and mice, though very rarely choose poisons when dealing with other types of animals. 

Bats

Bat removal costs $200 to $550 depending on the severity of the infestation. Estimates include live trapping, cleanup, and sanitation of the impacted areas. 

Possums

Possum removal costs $250 to $500, and this price includes live trapping and sealing off any entry points. Opossums also cause plenty of damage to the home, so talk to your pro about any necessary repairs. 

Squirrels

Squirrel removal costs $200 to $600, though it exceeds this price range in the case of an extraordinarily large infestation. Pest control pros live trap squirrels and, like with possums, you will likely find damage after removal. 

Birds

Humane bird removal costs $100 to $300, depending on the size of the issue. Installing hardware like netting and spikes to prevent future infestations costs $500 to $1,000. Pigeons and other birds prefer nesting under eaves, in chimneys, and in garages, among other locations throughout the home. Local and state laws vary regarding protected species and the legality of removal, so check with your local animal control agency for specifics.

Raccoons

Removing raccoons costs $400 to $600, which includes live trapping, sealing off entrances, and relocation services. Prices increase with multiple visits to catch reclusive raccoons.

Moles, Gophers, and Groundhogs

Removing moles, gophers, and groundhogs costs $50 to $550, depending on the extent of the infestation. However, costs could rise, depending on whether they’re in the crawl space, yard, or another location on the property. Pros set live humane traps during an initial visit and then return to relocate the critters. 

Skunks

Skunk removal costs $300 to $600, depending on infestation location and severity. Removal includes live trapping, relocation, and sealing up entrances. Due to the pest’s odor, we don’t recommend DIY removal.

Dead Animal Removal Cost

Removing a dead animal from your home costs $150 to $250, depending on accessibility. You’ll pay extra to have drywall patched up to seal up nests and entryways. If the dead animal is in a crawlspace, attic, or other accessible areas, you’ll likely pass less.

For animals located inside the wall or another difficult-to-reach part of the home, you’ll pay additional fees beyond $250, in some cases.

Remove dead animals right away because they generate odors and can lead to insect infestation.

Wildlife Removal Inspection Costs

Before removing wild animals in and around your property, conduct a proper inspection to determine the animal type and size of the infestation, as well as any related damage. Hiring a professional inspector costs $75 to $300, though many companies wrap up inspection charges with project estimates. Large companies, like Terminix, offer free inspections and consultations.

Inspections also determine necessary preventive measures to undertake, so you avoid future infestations. 

Removal vs. Extermination

Humane removal using live traps is the preferred choice in nearly every case, with an exception for certain rat and mice infestations. Using poisons to exterminate wild animals is illegal in many parts of the country and opens up your family and friends to dangerous chemicals. 

Live trapping is more expensive than extermination, as professional trappers catch and relocate the animals to a habitat away from humans. However, extermination is only a viable option for certain pests, like rats, and in certain parts of the country. Talk to your pro to discuss removal options.

Cost to Repair Damage Caused by Pests

Rodents, squirrels, bats, and other wildlife damage walls, destroy insulation, and chew through electrical wiring, given enough time. This damage can be far-reaching and expensive to repair. The cheapest way to handle this damage is to hire a wildlife removal pro at the first sign of pests, so as not to give them any time to wreak havoc. However, this isn’t always possible, particularly with elusive pests. 

Here are some common types of property damage caused by wildlife infestations and associated repair costs. 

• Drywall repair costs $300–$875.

• Replacing insulation costs $950–$2,150.

• Wiring repair costs $6–$8 per square foot.

• Duct repair costs $200–$700

• Siding repair costs $350–$1,300.

• Crawl space cleaning and repair pricing costs $1,500–$15,000.

DIY Animal Control vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY pest control is a viable option in some cases, such as repelling deer from your yard or setting out live animal traps for stray cats, or laying out simple mouse traps. Never approach a wild animal, however, without taking the necessary safety precautions. DIY methods open you up to safety concerns and, generally speaking, do not always ensure a successful outcome. 

Professional service providers guarantee their methods with proper training in handling and relocation methods. They also help install preventative measures to avoid future infestations. For safety and peace of mind, contact a local pest control specialist.

FAQs

How can I be sure I have a pest problem?

Wild animals make their presence known in many cases, so look for unexplained holes in the walls or food containers, the presence of excrement, or listen for unexplained rustling and scampering noises at night. Of course, the best way to achieve absolute certainty is to hire a pro to conduct an inspection. 

How bad is the problem?

Animal infestations range in severity but will worsen over time as the animals continue to reproduce. Inspections and consultations determine the extent of the problem, as well as a preferred course of action. Do not wait until you see many pests before calling a pro. The more extensive the problem, the more expensive the removal.

How do professionals get rid of moles and other yard pests?

Moles and other yard pests necessitate live traps and patience. Pros put out the traps and leave them overnight, checking on them intermittently. Once the animals are trapped, experts return and haul them away to a location away from humans. 

Does public animal control charge to pick up and get rid of critters?

Public animal control doesn't charge for animal removal, but only offers services in certain locations and for certain animals. For instance, they’ll send someone out for domesticated animals but not for most wild animals. 

What does Terminix Wildlife Control Cost?

Terminix charges more than local private businesses, so you’ll pay an extra 20% to 40%, amounting to $250 to $500. However, the company offers free inspections and guarantees that the animals are removed and won't return. Local companies can’t always offer free inspections or guarantees for financial reasons. With that said, inquire with local pros regarding both services.