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QUESTION:

Hello! We have been experiencing a lot of problems with some kind of animal under our porch here lately. It’s been so bad that we are scared to stay in our home.

Tallahassee, FL

ANSWER:

Many animals are known to take up residence under a deck or porch. Decks and porches provide excellent shelter away from other potential predatory animals. The most common animals are skunks, armadillo, raccoons, opossum, and even feral cats and foxes. If you have any pets, it’s a good idea to go outside and check before you let them outside. Try stomping your feet and making loud noises. Although this will most likely not deter the animal away, it will possibly make it move, which will give you an idea if there is something present at that time. Many of these animals carry diseases such as leptospirosis, rabies, and leprosy, so it’s important that you don’t reach your hand down any hole that the animal might have dug, or in any openings you clearly cannot see in.

Most animals usually gain access to porches and decks through openings in lattices or by digging a hole. Don’t try to block the opening(s) before you call Trutech to remove the animal. Trying to block the area could scare or aggravate the animal resulting in the animal possibly attacking. It is important that you speak to your technician about inspecting your home for any other possible entry points, as well as developing a solution to animal proofing your porch. Many of our customers are relieved to hear that Trutech has the ability to seal your home for all types of animals. You can rest assured that Trutech can solve your problem, no matter what it takes!

QUESTION:

I have my flower beds ruined every night by probably an armadillo. I have spread animal deterrents in the flower beds, but that has not worked so far. Can you help?

Dallas, TX

ANSWER:

Yes, Trutech can handle this problem. We would start with an inspection to see how best to provide a solution, as every situation is different and we provide a customized plan for every customer. In this situation, we begin by trapping. This process will be effective as early as the first day/night but may take as long as 5-7 days to remove all of the problem animals.

Once the problem animals are removed from the property, we look to provide a permanent solution. If the armadillos are digging under a fence, we can perform exclusion services to prevent the armadillos from being able to burrow underneath the fence going forward. This service is backed with a warranty. Exclusion services typically take 1-2 additional days, but vary based on the amount of work needed to be done.

QUESTION:

Help, armadillos have been foraging in my yard. At least a dozen new holes appear every day. I have not been able to locate their den. I think I also have moles. I currently have a lawn service treating my lawn for bugs & weeds, but the damage from both of these animals has seemed to escalate in the last month. Any suggestions and/or help would be greatly appreciated.

DeLand, FL

ANSWER:

While lawn treatments can reduce the food source for moles and armadillos, they will not completely eradicate their supply. We encounter this situation quite often. I would suggest a control program for both pests, which includes trapping and deterrent to greatly reduce the time that they spend counteracting your landscaping! Both mole and armadillo control programs are monthly services.


QUESTION:

There is a hole near a tree stump and I believe there is some kind of burrowing animal making its home there. Armadillo maybe?

Benbrook, TX

ANSWER:

Burrowing animals are definitely attracted to old hollowed-out tree stumps. To determine the species an inspection would be needed because multiple burrowing animals would be attracted to that area. Example. Armadillo, Raccoon, Skunk, etc. If you were seeing areas around the tree stump or in your yard that have been rooted up, then the target animal may be Armadillos.

QUESTION:

We recently found serious rat activity in our home, so we hired an extermination service. Now, we require home and attic disinfection, clean-up, and restoration.

Weston, FL

ANSWER:

Trutech is experienced in attic sanitizations and restorations. Depending on the severity of the contamination, we have a variety of different solutions for you.

Trutech has the ability to R-Juvenate your attic. R-Juvenate is a process invented by Trutech which restores an attic as close as possible to its original state without having to go through the process of complete insulation removal and reinstallation. Once an animal enters an attic, it destroys the insulation’s R-Value, which will increase your energy bills. But R-Juvenate can refresh the insulation back to its original state.

Rodents carry ecto-parasites (fleas, ticks, mites, etc.) on them. These ecto-parasites can reproduce and spread into your home. R-Juvenate is equipped to spread an insecticide dust into your insulation and kill these parasites. We also have a variety of enzyme active bio-cleaners to clean the rat waste. And if the issue is severe enough, we can always manually remove droppings from the attic.

Most restorations can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the severity of the restoration process. There is not a job too large or too small for us to handle. We provide free inspections and will happily sit down with you and come up with a solution to your issue.

QUESTION:

We are having a problem with bats in Charlotte that we would like to have addressed. Do any repellents or sound machines work to keep bats away?

-Charlotte, NC

ANSWER:

The only way to permanently keep bats away is with a full exclusion done to the home. This will consist of screening gable end vents, sealing behind fascia board along eaves, sealing construction gaps, sealing dormer corners, sealing ridge caps, and any other areas that will allow a bat to enter into the home. If bats are currently present, a bat valve will be installed which is a one-way door that allows the bats to easily leave the home but does not allow them to get back in. Once all bats have left through the bat valve, it may then be removed and permanently sealed. As for sound machines and repellents, no. Although it may seem that it rustles the bats at first, it is simply the activity of your presence. The bats will soon settle down and continue to roost in that area. If there is a food source present in an area, bats will stay put.

QUESTION:

Hi, I have 1-2 bats that are clinging to a screen on the outside of my house, under an attic gable vent, and their guano has built up quite a bit. They are NOT in the house, but I’d rather not have them on the outside either. Do you provide guano removal? And could you possibly put a screen on the outside of the vent to prevent the bats from returning? This is a high vent that requires a tall ladder.

Apex, NC

ANSWER:

This is something we deal with on a regular basis. If you have this significant of guano buildup, I would suggest not only doing exactly what you have been talking about, but also letting us inspect your property for any other potential entry points. When the bats are evicted from the vent, they will naturally look for another way into their — or in this case, your — home. Also. while you may not see bats in the attic or home, you are not necessarily in the clear. The urine and guano of bats are very corrosive and can deteriorate the bottom of gable vents. Eventually, the vent will rot and bats will inhabit the space between the walls and brick, siding, or rock. Don’t procrastinate, as guano can build up fast inside these voids. This not only causes the health risks you hear about but can attract other bats for years to come.

QUESTIONS:

Beavers have almost destroyed our backyard at our rental home. Please let me know how to proceed with your services for beaver removal.

Sunset, SC

A beaver is accessing our property from the creek and harvesting trees. If the city allows it to continue and build a dam, the creek will flood. It already floods without a beaver dam. So far, they are saying it is on my property, and it is my responsibility. In the past, we have been told that we are not allowed to do anything regarding the creek and creek bed. Would you provide a quote for capturing and removing the beaver?

Brevard, NC

ANSWER:

Yes, we can handle the beaver problem. Beavers are extremely diligent workers and will continue causing issues until they are removed from the property. Trutech will undertake an intense trapping session and trap for a specific number of days or until activity stops, whichever comes first.

Beavers target an area and work there consistently until they need more resources. As a result, they will develop a “slide.” These are visible mudslides that the beavers create from repeatedly going in and out of the water. It’s important to locate beaver slides in order to have a more successful trapping session.

Once all beavers are removed, it’s important to remove any dams created by the beavers because it may result in ponds/lakes flooding and causing further damage to surrounding areas. The process of beaver removal typically takes 10-14 days.

QUESTION:
Can you please help us get rid of some bed bugs? We have them all over the house.

Georgetown, TX

ANSWER:
Before we begin I would ask exactly how long these insects have been pestering you and exactly where they are. This will give us an understanding of the severity of your issue. We want to make sure that we take care of the main focus area, but we also want to make sure that they haven’t/don’t have a chance to spread.

Our approach to this situation would be to use a heat treatment in conjunction with a growth-regulating spray. While insecticides can be effective by themselves, they won’t take care of the bed bugs’ eggs which have yet to hatch. By using a steamer we can get into cracks and crevices to eliminate the immediate bed bugs as well as the eggs which we may not see.

The growth regulating spray is more of a safety net rather than a solution. Its intent is to stop any adolescents that may have survived from reaching adulthood, which also stops them from reproducing. To treat the focus area as well as surrounding areas may take more than a few hours depending on the severity.

QUESTION:

I have a bee nest in the ground on the side of my house. Can it be removed? How much would it be?

Charlotte, NC

ANSWER:

Yes, a nest in the ground can be removed. A Trutech technician will conduct an inspection to determine the type of stinging insect. The pricing is determined once the inspection is complete. Pricing depends on the size and location of the nest, and the level of difficulty to treat and remove the nest. The technician will treat the nest to exterminate the stinging insects and then remove the nest. This process typically takes 1-2 hours including the inspection, treatment and nest removal.

QUESTION:

Our house has taken in some residents that we didn’t want to have. Around the window of one of our bedrooms, a hive of bees took residence. I don’t know who else to contact. I saw your website and decided to see if you could do something to help out. My husband went to mow the front yard this evening, and they swarmed him and stung him about 4 or 5 times. Can y’all do anything to help?

Beasley, TX

ANSWER:

We certainly can. I would recommend giving us a call ASAP to determine what is going on. Honey bees are not typically aggressive unless they are Africanized. Other species are often misidentified as bees, such as yellow jackets. Regardless, we will identify the culprits and give you the options necessary to get them gone.

 

QUESTION:

I have a row of bushes in front of my house that attracts dozens of bees. I babysit and pet sit, so this is a safety issue for us. Is there anything I can do to get rid of them? Or do I need to remove the bushes?

Jacksonville, FL

ANSWER:

While bees are a huge source of anxiety for many people, most are not typically aggressive to people. If someone in your family has an allergy to the sting than perhaps the removal of the bushes could be warranted. I would first suggest a visit from one of our technicians to determine the species of bee and make sure the problem isn’t manifesting from inside the walls or attic of your home. If it is determined that there is a nest or colony in the vicinity, the tech will give you options for removal.

QUESTION:

We have had bees in our roof several times. They have been treated but just come back a few months later. They are here again. Can you give us a quote and explain what is your procedure? Do you remove the whole honeycomb? If so, how do you do it? Thanks for your attention.

Boca Raton, FL

ANSWER:

Removing the entire comb is always recommended, but not always feasible. We will inspect the area and determine the feasibility of removal and let you know our plan. Sometimes we can open up the soffit, scrape it out, and replace the soffit vents. We are sometimes able to remove it from the attic. Other times require cutting it out through the roof, the ceiling, or from the wall outside. If none of these options work for the situation, then we offer a stinging insect prevention program whereby we treat the void every two months to prevent other bees from colonizing the area. This option doesn’t remove the comb that is already there, but it prevents the comb from growing.

QUESTION:

I have a family of birds that are nesting in a space on the outside of my house. I don’t want to kill them, but really don’t know how to remove them safely. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks in advance.

San Antonio, TX

ANSWER:

Most birds are protected. If there are no eggs or young present, then we can remove the nest and apply a deterrent to discourage this behavior. If there are young and the species is protected, then we are legally forced to allow them to fledge. Once they have left, we can remove the nest, treat the area for ecto-parasites, and determine a solution to prevent this in the future.

QUESTION:

I am a real estate agent working with a client who is dealing with an infestation of carpenter bees on her front porch. I need some guidance on this, please.

Charleston, SC

ANSWER:

Trapping carpenter bees can be a difficult task because the females are likely to sting when nests are disturbed. This can cause severe pain and allergic reactions. The best way to handle infestations is by contacting professionals that are trained to quickly and effectively eliminate pests. The licensed specialists at Trutech will safely remove carpenter bees from homes and can offer solutions for preventing future problems.

This specific insect pest has a preference for untreated and unfinished wooden structures. Therefore, homeowners can prevent carpenter bee infestations by ensuring all exterior wood is painted and finished. Another step residents can take to avoid these pests from entering homes is filling unoccupied holes in wood by using steel wool and caulk. If carpenter bee infestations increase and become a severe problem, other measures can be taken. Since these pests overwinter and do not return until spring, homeowners may have their wood treated with insecticides before the warm season arrives.

QUESTIONS:

I’m being invaded by cicada killers all around my house. What options does your company provide?

-Concord, NC

ANSWER:

We can provide a solution to your stinging insect problem. After a thorough inspection to determine the source, Trutech will put together a plan to solve the issue. If there is an active nest on your property, we will remove the nest and treat the area with a residual product to prevent future nesting in that area.

If no nest is visible on your property, we will apply residual treatments to specific locations on your property. Stinging insects that land on the treatment will be eradicated.

QUESTION:

Do you get rid of ground moles, and if so, how?

Brookhaven, GA

ANSWER:

Yes. Moles are handled with a recurring program consisting of trapping and deterrents. A mole can create up to 50 feet of new tunneling in a single day. That goes to show that a mole can cause a lot of damage to your yard in a very short amount of time. Trutech will first inspect the property and stomp all existing tunnels. We will return in the next couple of days and address any new activity. If we can identify a “highway” tunnel, which is typically the longest and straightest tunnel, we will set traps to catch the moles.

If activity is very sporadic and no highway tunnel is able to be identified, we will resort to fumigants. The fumigant options we use are sulfur-based smoke bombs, which eradicate any moles currently inside of the tunnels. Once the activity is down from trapping and/or fumigants, we will then start treating the area to prevent future activity. Trutech will apply a perimeter deterrent to deter any moles that make their way to your yard. Deterrents, along with trapping, are the only prevention methods for moles.

QUESTION:

Just tonight there was a pack of coyotes in the neighborhood. The entire neighborhood heard. How do we get rid of the coyotes? They have also been spotted recently in the streets and front yards at 10 pm. Thank you.

Chicago, IL

ANSWER:

We offer coyote trapping. We will need to inspect the property and speak with anyone who has seen the coyotes and may be able to provide us with information on their habits. Trapping for these larger predators is sometimes challenging, but it is a challenge that we welcome. Our strategy will vary depending on the property. I recommend scheduling an inspection as quickly as possible.

QUESTION:
A friend of mine gave me a cat she didn’t want anymore, but I can no longer take care of it. He is triggering asthma attacks for my son and is also flaring up my allergies. The problem is the cat has hidden in the closet and refuses to get out. Please help!

– New Orleans, LA

ANSWER:
I would suggest contacting your local Animal Control division to aid in this situation. Animal Control officers have extensive experience dealing with domestic animals.

 

QUESTION:
I have an old feral cat who has a bad cold and needs treatment. He has gone under my crawl space and is contained with my trap set under the house but going nowhere near it. I do feral cat rescues quite a lot, but this one has me stumped and I have to get him to my vet, who will be right over once I contain him in a trap. Can you help trap feral cats, maybe with a zip net?

Raleigh, NC

ANSWER:
We have a few options when it comes to removing feral cats from crawl spaces. Our first option is to employ feral cat traps with a few different techniques (pre-baiting the area, different scents, potentially a drop trap if it still refuses to come near). Our other option in this case would be to remove the cat using a catch pole.

The amount of time for these two options obviously varies greatly. If you would like us to continue to help you trap, a reasonable time period could be a few days. If we came out with a catch pole, we could possibly remove the feral cat on the same day.

 

QUESTION:
I’m having issues with geckos in my home. I’d like to understand what services you have for removal and prevention.

Charlotte, NC

ANSWER:
If geckos are getting in the house, we would look for entry points and exclude the openings. We would then set traps around the perimeter of the home. In addition to trapping, we will apply a pesticide to the exterior to control the gecko’s food source. Typically it takes 1-3 weeks to trap the majority of the geckos in the house.

As far as outside, the geckos can be deterred. We can keep them away from the house and minimize activity in yards with the application of pesticides around those areas and with traps. Once the initial population is under control, we recommend monthly visits to check traps and apply a food source control to keep the geckos out of the house.

QUESTION:
I have a ground hog problem at a rental property. The animal is digging holes through and around a wooden retaining wall and it is causing structural damage with the wall. I know that I can buy a trap for $50 or less, but then I have the problem of moving the animal. How much will it cost to get Trutech to make this problem go away?
Cleveland, OH

ANSWER:
States have varying regulations regarding the removal of groundhogs once they are trapped. Trutech technicians are trained and equipped with the knowledge of each states’ regulations to ensure safe and humane transport of trapped animals. While cages are readily available at DIY and home improvement stores, careful planning and prep work is necessary to provide a safe and effective resolution to a ground hog problem.

QUESTION:

We seem to be having a much higher presence of both wasps and dirt daubers this year. Is there a service for a one time spray down to deter them for a season? Thank you!

Atlanta, GA

ANSWER:

Trutech does provide wasp services; however, there are no products currently available to effectively control wasps for an entire season. In order to properly control wasps during the warm months, a monthly treatment plan is necessary.

QUESTION:

I have about 15 to 20 holes in my back yard and I would like someone to come out and see animal what could be causing them.
Birmingham, AL

ANSWER:

Holes found in a backyard can be puzzling for the homeowner and wildlife specialist alike. A detailed site inspection is necessary to determine the true cause of the turf damage. Possible causes range from insects to moles to armadillos. A trained Trutech technician will be able to identify the culprit after the site analysis.


QUESTION:

I found a hole in the ground and need to know if I have a problem with rabbits or some other type of animal.
Dedham, MA

ANSWER:

Trutech can help. We will immediately know what type of animal it is based upon our inspection. Rabbit holes and burrows typically have much of their fur nearby. Rabbits will shed and use their fur to make a soft nesting area for their babies. The holes are usually baseball- to softball-sized. If the hole is larger, more like a volleyball or basketball, it is a groundhog hole.

Regardless of what type of animal you are dealing with, Trutech will solve the issue. These burrows can destroy landscaping and cause injury to people who step in them. It’s important to remove the animals causing the damage and have the holes properly filled in. The process of identifying the pest and addressing the problem through a trapping session typically takes about 5-7 days.

QUESTION:

I have a hornets nest on a second floor eave and would like to have it removed. The hornets were very active this summer, but that seems to have died down.

Chapel Hill, NC

ANSWER:

The only safe and effective way to remove hornets is to treat the hive and remove it afterward. We are fully equipped with and trained on ladders and equipment that allow us to reach high spots on your home, and safely handle stinging insect issues. Once the hive is removed we can also treat your eaves, soffits, and porch overhangs with a residual pesticide in order to help prevent hornets from attempting to rebuild.

In addition, we can also inspect, and if necessary, treat your attic. The attic is an extremely common location for wasps and hornets to overwinter and take refuge. These treatments, while effective, are also only temporary due to the fact that pesticides break down over time. We recommend ongoing services which would include regular treatments to help prevent any new wasps and hornets from turning your home into theirs.

 

QUESTION:

We recently discovered a mouse in our air duct this evening. We have placed a trap but are not sure if there is a larger problem at hand. We were hoping for someone to come help remedy the situation if possible.

Richmond, VA

ANSWER:

Mice in air ducts is often an indicator of a larger problem. One misconception we often come across is when homeowners set their own traps, catch a mouse or two, and think the problem is resolved. Unfortunately, this is usually far from the truth. Mice are often neophobic and can be cautious of traps, especially after a few have been caught.

Being at the bottom of the food chain also requires mice to breed at a very high rate. One female is able to produce an average litter of 5-8 young every 20-25 days. She is actually able to become pregnant again just hours after giving birth to a litter.

Given that mice become mature at around 6 weeks and can then start having litters of their own, you can see how this problem could get out of hand very quickly.

To keep mice out of air ducts, Trutech technicians use knowledge from their educational background and extensive training to determine the best areas to concentrate treatment of your home.

This begins with a complete “top to bottom, inside and out” inspection of the home. We want to know where the mice have been, what areas are currently experiencing the most activity, and what may be attracting them to these areas.

QUESTION:

I live in a community where some animals have been chasing and trying to attack residents. It may be an otter. Do you trap otters?

Houston, TX

ANSWER:

Yes, otters are a nuisance species that have detrimental effects on fish populations in lakes, ponds, and coy ponds. Trutech will inspect the property and come up with a plan to solve the otter issue quickly and efficiently. The process includes specific trap placement in active areas. Otters like to travel along borders, walls, and embankments. Because of this behavior, we trap in these areas.

If active areas in the community are surrounded by heavy human traffic, we will mark off the area with caution tape and install signs indicating that a trapping session is taking place and the area is prohibited for entry. We do not want to portray a negative public appearance; therefore, all trapping sessions must be approved by both Trutech and the community board or homeowners’ association. If both parties approve, we will undergo the trapping session and remove the otters from the area.

 

QUESTION:

I have pigeons roosting near one of my windows. They are creating damage and leaving horrible droppings. I need someone to somehow remove/deter them from staying there and to clean up the droppings.

Philadelphia, PA

ANSWER:

Trutech will solve the issue. Pigeon droppings can lead to serious health concerns, so it’s important to remove the feces and sanitize the contaminated area. Once the droppings are removed and the area has been sanitized, Trutech will apply a deterrent to the window sill which will prevent future activity.

Our deterrents are “green” and environmentally friendly. The main ingredient is cayenne pepper, which has the same effect on pigeons as it does on humans: it burns! When a pigeon lands on the deterrent and begins grooming itself, it will start to feel the effects of the cayenne pepper. The pigeons are not harmed but will feel the burn and know better than to land near that area again. The deterrents will last a full month in the weather and should be applied frequently throughout the year. This will prevent future activity and keep your window pigeon-free.

The feces removal, sanitization, and application of deterrents usually takes 1-2 hours but varies based on the amount of work and the difficulty of the job.

QUESTION:

I need help with removing three pigeons from inside of our warehouse.

Houston, TX

ANSWER:

Trutech can handle this problem. There are a few different methods we can take. The first would be trapping with a colony cage trap. This cage style allows you the opportunity to catch multiple pigeons in the same trap. This method typically takes 5-7 days. If the pigeons are using the warehouse for nesting and roosting only, they may not be interested in feeding, which would make the trapping session more difficult.

Another approach would be to assess and remove any pigeon nests and apply deterrents to the active areas. Any pigeons that land on the deterrent will quickly learn not to land there again, which will force the pigeons to find a new place to roost. This method typically takes an entire day because of slow operation with extension lifts.

Lastly, if neither of the first two methods are successful, Trutech can undergo an aggressive population reduction method. Using the correct safety procedures, pellet rifles will be used to harvest the pigeons in the warehouse. Trutech will work with employees to ensure the pigeons are removed quickly and efficiently. In most cases, Trutech will perform this service after hours to avoid interaction with working employees. This method usually takes 1-2 shoots, and each shoot consists of 2-3 hours.

QUESTION:
Hello, I’m having pigeons nesting on my roof and trying to get the service to remove them.
Denton, TX

ANSWER:
Here is how we would approach the problem:

There are many reasons pigeons choose to roost and nest on roofs. In some instances, periodic harassment is sufficient to move the pigeons elsewhere. Often, however, more aggressive means must be used. The two most common methods are trapping and deterrents.

Trapping involves physically removing the animal from the location. This works well for short-term results and for initial population reductions. Deterrents are designed to make a specific area uncomfortable for the pigeon, forcing it to move elsewhere. The advantage to this method is that it is “always on” and displays long term effectiveness when maintained properly.

QUESTION:
I need help with some pigeon issues we are having at the home. We had a roofer come out for an inspection. When he took a look up top, he told us we have nests with eggs on our roof. We also have pigeon droppings around our entryway and driveway. Do you provide estimates? What prevention methods are used? Does the estimate include cleanup and removal of the existing problem? Thanks.
Indianapolis, IN

ANSWER:
Absolutely we can come see what is going on. When we show up, we are not looking to just provide you with an estimate, but get started on the solution that very same day. After making sure of the species, we can offer cleanup, chemical sanitation, removal, ectoparasite treatments, exclusion, and many devices and tactics to resolve these problems.

QUESTION:

Does your company install snake fences? Our house is on cement blocks, and we would like to avoid having any snakes under the house.

Dallas, TX

ANSWER:

While the short answer to your question is yes, there is much more we have to offer. Our biologists and specialists will identify the underlying cause for your situation and utilize all the proven methods we have at our disposal to protect you and your family.


QUESTION:

My daughter saw a medium-size black snake a couple of weeks ago in our front flower area under the living room window on the ground. The snake went under the house through a vent in the foundation. Yesterday, I found two snake skins on the right hand side of the house. I am wondering if an inspection under the house should be done and then the vents repaired or replaced. My wife is EXTREMELY scared of snakes and I cannot afford to have one in the house and to ease her mind under the house. Any suggestions or recommendations are appreciated.

Durham, NC

ANSWER:

If it is possible to access the area under the house, then we will certainly inspect that area, and remove any snakes that we can locate. However, snakes are masters at evading detection, and it is possible that any snakes present may not be located. The best approach for this situation would be to inspect the area for snakes, set a few traps under the house, and seal any openings such as the vents to prevent egress and ingress.

If any snakes remain under the house, the traps will hold them, allowing us to remove them upon trap checks. It is also highly recommended that you utilize our snake control program. We will inspect the yard for snakes and remove any that we locate. We will help you identify any likely harboring areas and either tell you how to modify these areas to be less conducive for snakes, or potentially help you to modify these areas. We apply deterrent to the foundation and set traps for those stubborn individuals. This is a monthly control program.

QUESTION:

Good morning. Im contacting you because we think we have a raccoon in our bathroom vent. We are not sure that is a raccoon, but there is definitely an animal.
Round Rock, Texas

ANSWER:

A raccoon in a bathroom vent could become a dangerous situation. Removing any animal quickly is very important. A detailed inspection is a must in any wildlife intrusion scenario.

It is important to identify not only the animal causing the problem, but also the ways it is gaining access to the home. A trained Trutech technician will identify future entry points to provide additional protection for the home.

If it is indeed a raccoon, immediate removal is not always possible. A series of traps or cages will be set and checked daily until the problem animal(s) is captured. Once removed, work can begin on repairing the damage they have caused. Your Trutech technician can provide this service as needed.

QUESTION:

I have a problem with skunks and raccoons eating my pet food at night. I know I need to remove the food, but skunks may be nesting under the deck. I have seen 2 different skunks and 3 raccoons (all three at same time).

Inman, SC

ANSWER:

You are right on target with your plan to remove the food source. If complete food source removal is not possible due to pets being outside animals only, then we recommend removing the food from before dusk until after dawn. Raccoons and skunks are primarily nocturnal (active after dusk to before dawn) and crepuscular (most active at dawn/dusk). After a plan for the pet food is put in place, we recommend a trapping session to remove the animals that have created the habit of hanging around your home. A full inspection of the attic and crawlspace is necessary to ensure these animals are not entering your home. If the animals are getting under your deck or into your home, we will recommend a plan to close current and potential entry points in order to keep them out. Luckily, skunk and raccoon trapping are very similar, and the sessions can happen at the same time. Other measures, such as sanitization or clean-up of fecal matter, may be necessary depending on the situation. Your Trutech technician will be able to advise you further upon inspection.

QUESTION:
I have a raccoon living under my mobile home. I have tried to get rid of it with a few home remedies, but all have failed. We heard noises months ago but had no idea what it was. The noises went away soon after but have just started again at the beginning of this week. I think it made its home there before winter, and now since spring is here, it is active again. What can we do?

Fuquay-Varina, NC

ANSWER:
Trutech can help! The first step is a complete inspection of the property to identify any animals that are present or have been previously (this will help us establish whether or not there are/were raccoons under the house). The inspection will also identify all areas where animals are potentially gaining access to the property so they can be addressed. Once we have identified the entirety of the problem we can usually resolve it in an average of 7 to 10 days.

 

QUESTION:

We have a varmint in our garage who resides between the hot water heater and our car hood. It goes to the bathroom around the water heater. We have no idea how it finds food, and we don’t have any water out there, other than the windshield washer fluid hose that it has chewed a hole in. How do we solve this problem?

ANSWER:

While not common, rodents sometimes ruin the inner mechanics of a vehicle. They are determined little pests and will stop at nothing to insure the survival and reproduction of their offspring. Something like this can start small and escalate into serious problems. One day a rodent appears in the car port and a month later, the kitchen lights won’t turn on.

In order to get this situation under control, we would need to develop a rodent control program. This program will deplete current population of rodents living in and around the home. This can be done with a discrete rodent bait station that placed around the exterior of the home. Most homes need anywhere from 2-5 bait stations that will kill off the current issue and help against future infestation.


QUESTION:

I don’t know if you service the Ocala area, but we seem to have some sort of small animal in our A/C ductwork. We only hear it periodically late at night when the rest of the house is quiet. Can you help?

Ocala, FL

ANSWER:

Yes, we do service the Ocala area. Most likely the animal is a rodent infestation. Rodents such as the roof rat, are very common in Ocala. Typically roof rats are not entering the home for food, but merely for shelter. Rats have figured out that homes make a very good nesting point for evading predators and staying out of the cold in the winters.

These rodents will sometimes chew into the duct work in order to get to the cold or warm air circulating through the home. Rats are mostly blind and they leave a urine and pheromone trail in order to find their way back to the home when they leave to forage. This trail can invite other predators such as snakes, and/or it can attract other rats, which eventually will result in an infestation.

It is best to have a trained wildlife professional come out and conduct a thorough inspection of the house. The inspection will include ductwork, the attic/crawl space, roof, soffit, vents, and any other location that is vulnerable to allow these rodents into the home. From the inspection, the technician will be able to determine the exact species and where it is leaving and entering the home.

After the inspection, the technician can sit down with you and discuss the most effective way to rid your home of these pests as well as go over the strategic plan to prevent these pests from ever reentering the home again.


QUESTION:

I left my groceries in their bags yesterday, and when I arrived home, a package of chicken had been torn open and one piece had been completely eaten. Also, my deli turkey had been dragged under the kitchen table and half eaten. I’ve looked everywhere in the house, but cannot find anything. I know it was some animal and need your help! Thank you.

-New Orleans, LA

ANSWER:

The culprit could be any number of creatures such as opossums, raccoons, or skunks. The most likely pest, however, is a rodents, more specifically – rats.

We will need to set up a general inspection to determine the type of infestation, how they’re getting in, and contamination levels in the attic space, as animals in the living space typically gain entry into the house once they settle into the attic. Depending on the exact situation, we could have the problem handled in as little as a few days to a few weeks.


QUESTION:

I would like more information regarding your rodent control services, as well as what to do about spiders in the house.

Cleburne, TX

ANSWER:

We would need more information about the type of spider, where, and how many there are to be able to devise a method of control.

Rodent control is more of a straightforward solution. After an inspection to determine the extent of the problem and find any exterior entry, rodent control generally involves four parts.

First, we would seal any openings on the exterior of the home to block entry to the interior. Next, we would trap in attics or crawl spaces where activity has been found to remove any rodents inside the sealed home. Then, we would perform any clean up or remediation necessary in said spaces to deal with feces and pheromone trails. And finally, we would set outside rodent bait stations to monitor and mitigate exterior rodent populations.


QUESTION:

I have heard it is possible to attach metal pieces that are pliable to the bottom corners of garage doors to help close the gaps and keep rodents out. Is that something you do?

-Frisco, TX

ANSWER:

Initially, we would plan an inspection to figure out the types of problems due to the gaps in the garage. The inspection would let us know what animal/insect is using the gaps as entry points. These finding are important to craft a solution.

One such solution could be to seal gaps in the garage with a sealant foam for insects. If we are dealing with rodents, we can take different approach and use metal flashing to secure the area. The inspection and work itself could take up to a few hours, depending on the severity of the issue and the amount of work that needs to be completed.


QUESTION:

Hello, I work in a warehouse setting, and I believe there may be animals in the warehouse. I would like for someone to come and check it for me. Thanks.

-Kenner, LA

ANSWER:

Getting one of those feelings that there is something out there but you can’t see it? It could be a rodent issue. Rodents are very common animal found in and around businesses and homes. They have the ability to find a way through small holes in the building structures or chew their way through, if needed.

Rodents are shy and like to stay well hidden, so most people won’t see them, but will find the remains of destruction or droppings left behind. Rodents are prey for many animals, so it’s in their best interest to try and not be seen.

When dealing with possible wildlife issues, it is best to have a professional technician come out and inspect the building. He or she will be able to determine the species and the locations that they are entering and leaving.

Then they will be able to put together a plan of action based on the species that was determined. This plan could consist of a trapping session, exclusion (sealing the building), a monthly service, sanitization/clean-up, and an ectoparasite-parasite treatment.

QUESTION:

We have had the smell of a dead animal in our backyard for several weeks and cannot find the source of the smell. Is this something you can help us with? If so, how do you locate the dead animal? Thank you.

Chapel Hill, NC

ANSWER:

Yes, Trutech provides dead animal removal services. This process entails a technician coming to your home to do a full inspection of the property. The technician will be able to locate the general area where the animal is and then locate the dead animal from there. Once the animal is found, we will remove the animal from the property. Depending on the size of the property and the amount of foliage, this process could take up to several hours.

QUESTION:

I wanted to see whether your company offers snake guards or traps?

Raleigh, NC

ANSWER:

Our company offers a recurring snake program which consists of trapping, on-call snake removal, food source reduction (baiting and trapping for rodents, lizards, frogs, etc.), and the application of snake deterrents. Combined together, this is the best method to prevent snakes from entering onto your property.

QUESTION:

My daughter saw a medium size black snake a couple weeks ago in our front flower area under the living room window on the ground. The snake went under the house through a vent in the foundation. Yesterday, I found two snake skins on the right hand side of the house. I am wondering if an inspection under the house should be done and then the vents repaired or replaced. My wife is EXTREMELY scared of snakes and I cannot afford to have one in the house and to ease her mind under the house. Any suggestions or recommendations are appreciated.

– Bill from Durham, NC

ANSWER:

If it is possible to access the area under the house, then we will certainly inspect that area, and remove any snakes that we can locate. However, snakes are masters at evading detection, and it is possible that any snakes present may not be located. The best approach for this situation would be to inspect the area for snakes, set a few traps under the house, and seal any openings such as the vents to prevent egress and ingress.

If any snakes remain under the house, the traps will hold them, allowing us to remove them upon trap checks. It is also highly recommended that you utilize our snake control program. We will inspect the yard for snakes and remove any that we locate. We will help you identify any likely harboring areas and either tell you how to modify these areas to be less conducive for snakes, or potentially help you to modify these areas. We apply deterrent to the foundation and set traps for those stubborn individuals. This is a monthly control program.

QUESTION:

I have a private pond, and I think there is a snapping turtle present. I would like to have it removed, along with any snakes. My ducks will not go in the pond.

Sanford, NC

ANSWER:

To resolve an issue of this nature we would need to determine that the target animal is in fact a snapping turtle. Once we have identified the species of interest we would then begin a trapping session to remove them from the pond. Being as snapping turtles are ambush predators as well scavengers we would set semi-submerged turtle traps. Once all turtles have been removed we would suggest putting a fence around the pond to detour future turtle issues. We can resolve snake issues in a similar manner. We will set traps to remove snakes that are on site then recommend an ongoing removal and maintenance program, custom tailored to your property, to keep your problem under control.

 

QUESTION:

I may have squirrels in the attic of my home. If so, they are probably getting inside through a roof vent. I would like to schedule an appointment for an onsite inspection and resolution.

Springfield, MA

ANSWER:

Squirrels in attics cause significant damage and frustration for homeowners. They often exploit weaknesses in roof and attic vents to gain access to the home. A detailed inspection is required to provide a comprehensive solution to a squirrel problem. It is important to identify all current and potential future entry points around the home. Squirrels will be removed by a 10-14 day trapping process that could utilize different types of traps and cages in configurations best suited to the construction of the home. Once the squirrels are removed, the identified openings should be repaired or reinforced to prevent future problems. A trained Trutech technician can perform these exclusion services.

QUESTION:

We have a kitchen air vent that has been used by starlings for nesting. We would like to have the vent checked for bird removal (if needed, as I think the starlings have moved on), and for repair as needed. I have a few questions: Do you charge a coming out and inspection/evaluation fee? Do you do bird removal only or do you also do repairs to vents and install needed covers etc. How soon can you come out to do an inspection/evaluation?

Chesapeake, VA

ANSWER:

Vents have been a favorite location for starlings and other small birds for some time. Vents provide the perfect combination of seclusion from predators and protection from the weather for young birds to grow. Trutech can provide an inspection of the vent to confirm the birds have left the nest, perform nest removal, and provide repairs to prevent future birds from using the vents on your home.

Removal of the birds and nesting materials may not fully solve other concerns you may not see at this time. Bird mites are a mite carried on by the birds and infest in the nesting materials. Once the birds have fledged out, the mite’s food source is no longer present, which will cause the mites to seek out a new food source. Thousands of mites will then start spreading out to locate a host. Trutech can also treat mites. To schedule a service or inspection, please call our office.

QUESTION:

I would like information and prices on removing Muscovy ducks and feral cats from our business. I manage a hotel and they are really becoming a nuisance for the staff and guests. We have about 10-15 ducks depending on the season and 10 cats that hang around the housekeeping and dumpster area.

North Charleston, SC

ANSWER:

We would be glad to assist you with your nuisance wildlife needs. The process for handling Muscovy ducks and cats is through a means of trapping. We will setup humane trapping to remove the animals from the property. Usually the trapping sessions will be 7-14 days.

QUESTION:

I think I have a vole/mole infestation. Was wondering if you guys can help?

Wilmington, NC

ANSWER:

Yes, Trutech provides mole and vole services. A technician will do a full inspection of the property to determine exactly which animal is causing damage. We will then establish a 10-14 day plan to trap and remove the moles or voles. Once the initial problem is under control, we will use trapping, baiting and deterrents on a recurring basis to control the population and prevent re-infestation.


QUESTION:

I have some sort of burrowing creature in my backyard (as evidenced by the linear dirt mound running from the deck to a planting area where grass belongs). I have not actually seen what is doing the burrowing, just the effects. Can you help and what options do I have?

Midlothia, VA

ANSWER:

If you are not seeing any egress/ingress to these mounds, you are probably dealing with moles. When moles burrow and tunnel a few feet under the ground they will excavate that dirt to the surface, causing the mounds. Only when the moles tunnel a few inches under the ground will you see the raised tunnel that will travel just below the surface.

QUESTION:
Our landscaper says we have voles digging holes and pathways (not tunnels) through our lawn. It is not something he can deal with. We are hoping you can help get rid of the pests.

Kansas City, MO

I am having issues with Voles in my yard, what can be done about it?

Lees Summit MO

ANSWER:
Vole damage to landscaping is often unsightly, but the replacement cost of damaged plants may add up quickly. Once the damage pattern is analyzed during a site inspection, Trutech technicians will recommend a trapping and baiting program to keep the vole population below acceptable levels. Completely eliminating the animals from the landscape may not be possible, but a significant reduction will quickly stop plant damage and allow the vegetation to return to its original luster.

QUESTION:

Do you provide services for wasp exclusions? I have been having issues with wasps coming in from the outside vents on the side of the house. They are coming through the bathroom vents in 3 of our bathrooms. Thanks!

Spokane, MO

ANSWER:

Yes, we do provide wasp exclusion services. A technician will come to your home and perform a full inspection of the home and property. The technician will determine the areas of entry and provide a plan to exclude those areas. In addition to the exclusion, Trutech will treat the attic area and remove any wasps nests found. In order to provide a full solution to a wasp problem, a recurring wasp treatment of the property is recommended during the warm months.

Learn more about our Stinging Insect Services.

QUESTION:

We recently noticed a high level of wasp activity in our attic and a nearby, unfinished, upstairs storage area. The two areas are connected and have an opening between them. I killed a number of the wasps but realize they are nesting somewhere in one or both areas. Each of the areas has a roof ridge vent which could be one way for their entry. Since it will be impossible to prevent entry to the areas in question, we are primarily interested in a deterrent of some sort that will render it unappealing to the wasps and other bees.

-Oklahoma City, OK

ANSWER:

We offer a stinging insect prevention program. This service is typically performed every two months.

QUESTION:

I have a friend who lives in Oklahoma. They have found a wild razorback living on their property. They need it removed. Is that something y’all could do? If not can you help us figure out who to call? Thank you.

Broken Arrow, OK

ANSWER:

Yes, Trutech provides feral hog removal. A technician will perform an extensive inspection of the property. Once the initial inspection is complete, we will recommend a plan to trap and remove the feral hogs from the property. The trapping process typically takes 10-14 days.

QUESTIONS:

I need a woodpecker deterrent.

Raleigh, NC

I have woodpeckers attacking my house on the second floor. Do you have experience with this issue? If so, how do you deal with this?

Ft. Myers, FL

ANSWER:

Woodpeckers can be a severe problem for homeowners. Woodpeckers in early spring will “drill” on metal flashing, roof vents, or chimney caps in an effort to attract a mate. Once a mate is found, the drilling may begin on any wooden surfaces on a structure to create a nesting site.

Due to Federal Law, once a nest is established, the bird and its nest are protected from harassment. However, prior to the nest being constructed, Trutech can apply deterrents, repair damages, and help prevent the nests from being completed. The methods used are designed to frustrate – but not harm – the bird, as the bird itself is protected.

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