INTERESTED IN ATTRACTING, PREVENTING, OR REMOVING WILDLIFE FROM YOUR LAND?
Read some of our Q and A'S below, or ask a question of your own!
An Antelope ground-squirrel is tunneling my yard in southern Utah? It is xeri-scaped with large rocks - what can I do?
Because your rocks are providing a great source of shelter, it may difficult to manage ground squirrels in this area. First, when replacing any trees or shrubs, line the hole with woven wire mesh (<1 inch squares) before planting the shrub. This will protect the roots. As to those burrows: you want to be careful not to do anything inhumane. For example, to get the squirrels out of the burrows so that you can fill the holes, you can try flooding the holes. Exiting squirrels can attract cats and dogs! Once you know the burrows are empty you can try to fill them with material that is less attractive to the squirrel. It may not entirely keep them out, but if there are other areas that are easier to dig in, it may at least reduce the damage. You can try filling the holes with large pebbles and rocks, things that are hard to dig through. I have also heard of people pouring cement into the cracks. One idea that I have been thinking of, but have never actually seen myself, is spraying the hard-to-reach holes with foam insulation, that will harden in the air. It is grainy and may not be something squirrels will want to chew. |
Birds are Nesting in the Eaves of My House - How do I get them out?
Most birds, such as these cliff swallows, are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This Act prohibits people from causing harm to many bird species. Therefore, you will need to wait until the chicks have fledged from their nests before acting. It is permissible to remove nests with only eggs. |
Once the birds have left, remove the nests, either by hand or by using a power washer. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves, a hat, and a ventilating mask. Next, you can begin excluding future nests. There are 3 ways you can do this, depending on your situation.
1. For deep eaves, or vaulted ceilings, you can exclude the area using hardware cloth (commonly called chicken wire) or bird netting that has 1/4" mesh. Larger mesh may allow birds to fly through and become trapped. Essentially, you want to install the cloth so that you make a triangle between the mesh, the roof and the wall. Depending on your building material you can use staples or epoxy to attach the hardware cloth.
2. In some situations, hardware cloth is too stiff. In this case, bird netting may be easier to use. It is also an economical way to exclude larger areas.
3. For more shallow eaves, such as pictured above, perch deterrents - often called 'porcupine quills' - can be placed upside down on the underside of the roof. This 'breaks up' the smooth surface of the wall and can deter swallows from building future nests. It is also an economical choice, and is more visually subtle. Perch deterrents come in many sizes; those suitable for small birds may work best in this situation.
1. For deep eaves, or vaulted ceilings, you can exclude the area using hardware cloth (commonly called chicken wire) or bird netting that has 1/4" mesh. Larger mesh may allow birds to fly through and become trapped. Essentially, you want to install the cloth so that you make a triangle between the mesh, the roof and the wall. Depending on your building material you can use staples or epoxy to attach the hardware cloth.
2. In some situations, hardware cloth is too stiff. In this case, bird netting may be easier to use. It is also an economical way to exclude larger areas.
3. For more shallow eaves, such as pictured above, perch deterrents - often called 'porcupine quills' - can be placed upside down on the underside of the roof. This 'breaks up' the smooth surface of the wall and can deter swallows from building future nests. It is also an economical choice, and is more visually subtle. Perch deterrents come in many sizes; those suitable for small birds may work best in this situation.
Mourning Dove Nesting
Questions About Squirrels

I Started Attracting Squirrels With My Bird Feeder and They Improved My Yard, How Can I Help Keep Them Around?
A balanced ecosystem is always a great idea. Sometimes residential areas can be more than a little bit out of balance, promoting non-native plants and animals at the exclusion of the animals native to the area. I am glad that you have found a reason to love squirrels and would like to ensure that you have them in your new yard. It is pretty obvious that squirrels love nuts and seeds. The squirrels that you will find in New Jersey are Fox Squirrels and Gray Squirrels. These animals thrive on a variety of nuts and seeds. You don't necessarily need to plant conifer trees, and in fact, planting a variety of conifers, oaks, hickory or walnuts would provide a healthier, sustainable food source for the squirrels. The local Extension office in your area can provide you with a list of Native Trees for you to plant. However another great source is your native plant society.
Please remember that you CAN have too much of a good thing. I do not recommend setting out food for gray or fox squirrels in residential areas. Even bird seed can provide "too much" food, if there are mast bearing trees (oak, walnut, hickory) and conifers nearby. These species of squirrel can reproduce young twice a year. Providing extra food increases the health of the females, and can cause them to have triplets. If the food resources create more squirrels than there is natural space for, the squirrels will begin to look for shelter in your house, shed, etc. And that is never a good thing.
A balanced ecosystem is always a great idea. Sometimes residential areas can be more than a little bit out of balance, promoting non-native plants and animals at the exclusion of the animals native to the area. I am glad that you have found a reason to love squirrels and would like to ensure that you have them in your new yard. It is pretty obvious that squirrels love nuts and seeds. The squirrels that you will find in New Jersey are Fox Squirrels and Gray Squirrels. These animals thrive on a variety of nuts and seeds. You don't necessarily need to plant conifer trees, and in fact, planting a variety of conifers, oaks, hickory or walnuts would provide a healthier, sustainable food source for the squirrels. The local Extension office in your area can provide you with a list of Native Trees for you to plant. However another great source is your native plant society.
Please remember that you CAN have too much of a good thing. I do not recommend setting out food for gray or fox squirrels in residential areas. Even bird seed can provide "too much" food, if there are mast bearing trees (oak, walnut, hickory) and conifers nearby. These species of squirrel can reproduce young twice a year. Providing extra food increases the health of the females, and can cause them to have triplets. If the food resources create more squirrels than there is natural space for, the squirrels will begin to look for shelter in your house, shed, etc. And that is never a good thing.
Click Here for More Squirrel Questions, including Trapping Squirrels -- digitalcommons.usu.edu/extension_curall/2126/
I am interested in using a bird feeder in my backyard, but I know it isn't as easy as just hanging a feeder in a tree. What are some considerations when installing a bird feeder?
This is a great question. Bird feeders can be a wonderful window into the avian world; but can also be used incorrectly. Incorrect bird feeders can a) fail to attract the birds you want, b) supply the wrong nutrients, c) spread disease, or d) attract predators. Here is a wonderful article (not mine) that discussions many considerations when installing a bird feeder.
A Marmot Near My Home is Spooked Due to Construction, Should I Help Him/Feed Him?
The marmot is going to be ok. There are many areas nearby that the marmot will adventure to in a few days to find a new home. He is just a little unsure of what is going on right now. Please do not feed him. If you feed him, he may decide that living under the shed isn’t all that bad. While this may be ok in June, this won’t be ok in October when it begins to get colder and natural food is hard to find. Additionally, marmots are herbivores; just like us, they need to eat a variety of plants to stay healthy. We can’t provide that diet as well as he can find it for himself. In order for him to find a new, suitable place to live out the rest of his life, he needs to venture away from the shed, not get comfortable living there. If a week or so goes by, and your marmot is still hanging out under the shed, and is looking a little worse for it, you can call the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. They will get you in touch with a person that can safely trap and relocate the marmot to more suitable, safe habitat.
The marmot is going to be ok. There are many areas nearby that the marmot will adventure to in a few days to find a new home. He is just a little unsure of what is going on right now. Please do not feed him. If you feed him, he may decide that living under the shed isn’t all that bad. While this may be ok in June, this won’t be ok in October when it begins to get colder and natural food is hard to find. Additionally, marmots are herbivores; just like us, they need to eat a variety of plants to stay healthy. We can’t provide that diet as well as he can find it for himself. In order for him to find a new, suitable place to live out the rest of his life, he needs to venture away from the shed, not get comfortable living there. If a week or so goes by, and your marmot is still hanging out under the shed, and is looking a little worse for it, you can call the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. They will get you in touch with a person that can safely trap and relocate the marmot to more suitable, safe habitat.
I Keep Seeing Bald Eagles Standing on the Ice Near My Home in Coldwater Michigan?
Thanks for your interest. Bald Eagles often sit on the ice to opportunistically feed on fish. They may wait for another bird to catch the fish, then chase them off and eat it themselves. They are basically just resting and loafing, casually looking for food. It is a normal winter behavior, and they aren't in any trouble.
Thanks for your interest. Bald Eagles often sit on the ice to opportunistically feed on fish. They may wait for another bird to catch the fish, then chase them off and eat it themselves. They are basically just resting and loafing, casually looking for food. It is a normal winter behavior, and they aren't in any trouble.
A Robin's Nest In My Yard Has Lost its Eggs?
Let's start with these questions:
"This year everything seemed well. Each day another egg appeared until there were 3. Yesterday I noticed there was only 1 egg and it looked different than before. It was more a part of the nest than on top of it. I saw the mother early yesterday but haven’t seen her on the nest since. What should we do? What happened? If no one returns to the nest should we remove it?"
It does appear that the robin has decided to move her nest. It could be from added activity from you but it could also be from added attention from a nest predator (given that there are a couple eggs missing). If no bird makes a nest there in the next couple weeks, I would remove it. Most song bird species do not reuse a nest, but they will reuse a place where a past nest was successful. Just use gloves and wash hands after -- birds often have mites that can be transferred to you and get into your house.
"Is using my porch light enough to cause any problem? Should I find a night-light or something and keep the light off (in case it would disturb the bird enough to abandon the nest)?"
Yes, the added activity and light might have made the robin nervous enough to move her nest. But it could have been something else altogether, so don't feel bad.
If another nest is built in that location in the future, you can place a piece of cardboard against the window, like a shirt-box or similar, in front of the nest, so that the light does not shine directly on her in the dark. The light on her may have made her feel exposed to nocturnal predators. I hope that helps and I hope she comes back. Watching nests is such a great way to learn about birds.
Let's start with these questions:
"This year everything seemed well. Each day another egg appeared until there were 3. Yesterday I noticed there was only 1 egg and it looked different than before. It was more a part of the nest than on top of it. I saw the mother early yesterday but haven’t seen her on the nest since. What should we do? What happened? If no one returns to the nest should we remove it?"
It does appear that the robin has decided to move her nest. It could be from added activity from you but it could also be from added attention from a nest predator (given that there are a couple eggs missing). If no bird makes a nest there in the next couple weeks, I would remove it. Most song bird species do not reuse a nest, but they will reuse a place where a past nest was successful. Just use gloves and wash hands after -- birds often have mites that can be transferred to you and get into your house.
"Is using my porch light enough to cause any problem? Should I find a night-light or something and keep the light off (in case it would disturb the bird enough to abandon the nest)?"
Yes, the added activity and light might have made the robin nervous enough to move her nest. But it could have been something else altogether, so don't feel bad.
If another nest is built in that location in the future, you can place a piece of cardboard against the window, like a shirt-box or similar, in front of the nest, so that the light does not shine directly on her in the dark. The light on her may have made her feel exposed to nocturnal predators. I hope that helps and I hope she comes back. Watching nests is such a great way to learn about birds.
Will the Horned Owl On My Property Attack My Cat?
I appreciate your concern. A great horned owl can definitely view a small cat as food. It would be difficult for the owl to actually grab and fly off with a cat, but it can still cause serious injury. If it were attacked, it would really depend on how quickly the cat reacted before the owl made contact. Owl talons can break bones and puncture organs. So, an outright attack may not cause direct mortality but could result in some serious wounds. With plenty of other food around, the owl
will probably decide the cat isn't worth the fight -- but to determine that there may be 1-2 'interactions' first. Also, the cat will quickly learn that there are
fearful things in the woods that they need to avoid. It is illegal to harass an owl, especially one that is nesting. However, I think it is appropriate to scare off the owl if you see it getting close to your cat. Owls are opportunistic hunters but don't really put in that much effort during the day after they rear their young. They want something easy, so if you make it difficult (by scaring or chasing) you will change the owl's desire to hunt near your home during the day. Definitely keep your cat indoors until after dawn and bring her in before dusk. I do think an owl attack is rare (I was raised with cats in owl habitat and never had an incident), but rare isn't never.
I appreciate your concern. A great horned owl can definitely view a small cat as food. It would be difficult for the owl to actually grab and fly off with a cat, but it can still cause serious injury. If it were attacked, it would really depend on how quickly the cat reacted before the owl made contact. Owl talons can break bones and puncture organs. So, an outright attack may not cause direct mortality but could result in some serious wounds. With plenty of other food around, the owl
will probably decide the cat isn't worth the fight -- but to determine that there may be 1-2 'interactions' first. Also, the cat will quickly learn that there are
fearful things in the woods that they need to avoid. It is illegal to harass an owl, especially one that is nesting. However, I think it is appropriate to scare off the owl if you see it getting close to your cat. Owls are opportunistic hunters but don't really put in that much effort during the day after they rear their young. They want something easy, so if you make it difficult (by scaring or chasing) you will change the owl's desire to hunt near your home during the day. Definitely keep your cat indoors until after dawn and bring her in before dusk. I do think an owl attack is rare (I was raised with cats in owl habitat and never had an incident), but rare isn't never.
Duck Nesting: Is it Normal for a Duck to Leave a Nest Early, and If She Leaves with a Single Chick Will She Come Back to Hatch the Rest? Should I Feed the Duck While it is Nesting?
Dear Concerned Citizen,
It is strange that your female duck left her nest in the middle of incubation. If a female left a nest with a single chick, it is unlikely she will return to the nest to try to hatch more eggs, as the eggs typically all hatch about the same time.
Generally, it isn't wise to feed wildlife because it just messes up the balance via attracting predators, providing food that may not be what they nutritionally need, etc. Generally mother ducks don't leave the nest very often to eat. They slip away quickly for a bite and then return. If the duck has left for 24 hours, it indicates that she will not be returning. There are a few reasons this may happen:
1. It could be that visiting the nest too often caused her to abandon the nest, in an effort to avoid predation, or because it caused her stress.
2. It is possible that a predator found the hen.
3. Sometimes weather and habitat conditions aren't right and hens just decide it isn't their year to hatch off a nest, and they leave (not too common
with ducks, but possible).
If she hasn't returned yet, and you would like to save any chicks that may hatch, bring them to your house immediately. Make a nest with a small box and a towel. Tuck the eggs in them and place them under a small lamp. They need to stay warm but not hot. They will need to be turned every few hours to keep them heated
evenly. At approximately 24 days, the eggs are due to hatch. It is difficult to hatch chicks on your own, so, I would then call your local Last Response. They often will have incubators that they can lend to you, or may be willing to hatch the chicks for you. Alternatively, you can look for a rehabilitation center that will be willing to hatch and rear the chicks. Your county extension office should know of a local rehab center.
Dear Concerned Citizen,
It is strange that your female duck left her nest in the middle of incubation. If a female left a nest with a single chick, it is unlikely she will return to the nest to try to hatch more eggs, as the eggs typically all hatch about the same time.
Generally, it isn't wise to feed wildlife because it just messes up the balance via attracting predators, providing food that may not be what they nutritionally need, etc. Generally mother ducks don't leave the nest very often to eat. They slip away quickly for a bite and then return. If the duck has left for 24 hours, it indicates that she will not be returning. There are a few reasons this may happen:
1. It could be that visiting the nest too often caused her to abandon the nest, in an effort to avoid predation, or because it caused her stress.
2. It is possible that a predator found the hen.
3. Sometimes weather and habitat conditions aren't right and hens just decide it isn't their year to hatch off a nest, and they leave (not too common
with ducks, but possible).
If she hasn't returned yet, and you would like to save any chicks that may hatch, bring them to your house immediately. Make a nest with a small box and a towel. Tuck the eggs in them and place them under a small lamp. They need to stay warm but not hot. They will need to be turned every few hours to keep them heated
evenly. At approximately 24 days, the eggs are due to hatch. It is difficult to hatch chicks on your own, so, I would then call your local Last Response. They often will have incubators that they can lend to you, or may be willing to hatch the chicks for you. Alternatively, you can look for a rehabilitation center that will be willing to hatch and rear the chicks. Your county extension office should know of a local rehab center.
What Type of Bat is This, and How Can I Remove it Safely?
What a very healthy bat you have. Based on this person's location who asked the question, I will base my answer on that. This bat is most likely a Brazilian free-tailed bat, which is native to NM, despite the name. You can find out more here: (https://msb.unm.edu/divisions/mammals/resources /chiroptera/molossidae/tadarida-brasiliensis.html). It will probably be happier outside of your home. To be safe, you should wear long sleeves, pants, and a hat before disturbing the bat. An accidental scratch could transfer rabies, although it is not common. If turning off the lights, opening the doors , and leaving the room for a bit doesn't allow it to go, you may need more help. Please contact your state fish and game office if this method does not work. |
I Might Have Bird-Mite Infestation. How Should I Stop This Issue?
Thanks for your inquiry. I'll respond with the assumption that you do indeed have a bird mite infection. Bird mites should not be able to live on humans, but unfortunately, they can live elsewhere in your home and lay eggs, continuing their life cycle without you. This is why mites may continue to appear. If you are trying to limit your exposure to manufactured chemicals, may make it more difficult, but not impossible to handle the issue. Please consider trying ClearLice (http://www.clearlice.com/head-lice-products/head-lice-treatment/treatment-shampoo?utm_source=bing&am...) . All ingredients are biologically sourced, with ingredients that kill all life stages of mites. Also, I've never tried this product but found it online, and it might be of interest to you. Use need to wash EVERYTHING that has been in your house (http://mitetreatments.com/bird-mites/). A diluted bleach solution can also be used to clean your household items. The bottom line is that if there are eggs laid in your belongings, you can transfer the mites with you. You should inform your landlord (if you have one) that there are mites, so that they can ensure the area is clean for future tenants.
Thanks for your inquiry. I'll respond with the assumption that you do indeed have a bird mite infection. Bird mites should not be able to live on humans, but unfortunately, they can live elsewhere in your home and lay eggs, continuing their life cycle without you. This is why mites may continue to appear. If you are trying to limit your exposure to manufactured chemicals, may make it more difficult, but not impossible to handle the issue. Please consider trying ClearLice (http://www.clearlice.com/head-lice-products/head-lice-treatment/treatment-shampoo?utm_source=bing&am...) . All ingredients are biologically sourced, with ingredients that kill all life stages of mites. Also, I've never tried this product but found it online, and it might be of interest to you. Use need to wash EVERYTHING that has been in your house (http://mitetreatments.com/bird-mites/). A diluted bleach solution can also be used to clean your household items. The bottom line is that if there are eggs laid in your belongings, you can transfer the mites with you. You should inform your landlord (if you have one) that there are mites, so that they can ensure the area is clean for future tenants.
Should I be Worried About Wild Geese Fighting?
Thank you for your concern about the goose. I'm not sure if these are domestic geese or Canada geese, but I'll assume they are wild Canada geese. It is completely normal for male geese to fight during this time of year, when they are competing for a mate. Sometimes, they can seriously injure themselves. It does sound like the goose you are concerned about is seriously injured, based on the behavior you described. Wild animals are terrific at healing. Left alone, the goose would usually be just fine after a few days. However, the fact that a wild animal let you pick it up is never a good sign. As you suggest, it might have been attacked by another animal in its weakened state. I strongly urge you to contact a rehabilitation center in your area, or at least your department of wildlife resources. It is NEVER a good idea to take a sick animal into your home. They can easily transmit diseases to you and your pets. Best of luck to you and the goose(https://georgiawildlife.com/).
Thank you for your concern about the goose. I'm not sure if these are domestic geese or Canada geese, but I'll assume they are wild Canada geese. It is completely normal for male geese to fight during this time of year, when they are competing for a mate. Sometimes, they can seriously injure themselves. It does sound like the goose you are concerned about is seriously injured, based on the behavior you described. Wild animals are terrific at healing. Left alone, the goose would usually be just fine after a few days. However, the fact that a wild animal let you pick it up is never a good sign. As you suggest, it might have been attacked by another animal in its weakened state. I strongly urge you to contact a rehabilitation center in your area, or at least your department of wildlife resources. It is NEVER a good idea to take a sick animal into your home. They can easily transmit diseases to you and your pets. Best of luck to you and the goose(https://georgiawildlife.com/).
How to Create a Wildlife Friendly Yard
First, some general information. Skip ahead if you already know this part (smile).
All animals have the same basic needs : food, water, shelter (from the elements, from predators, and to raise young). Wildlife need these things to be in relatively close proximity to each other; how much space an animal uses to get these requirements is called its home range. For small wildlife species such as lizards and mice, your yard might encompass an animal's entire home range. For larger animals and birds, your yard might only be a small part of an animal's home range.
If you have a specific type of animal or species of animal that you are interested in, we can work together to determine some specific requirements and home range information.
Now for some ideas:
To attract a wide variety of species, you should create or maintain diversity in your yard. For example, you could establish trees and shrubs of varying heights and species, preferably in clusters, in your yard to create a diversity of shelter choices. To provide habitat for lizards, you might create a rock garden with "sun bathing" rocks. Planting native berry-producing shrubs in your yard will attract migratory birds in the fall.
In creating a "wildlife friendly" yard, please keep in mind that you might attract wildlife that you really didn't intend to. We want you to increase your positive experiences with wildlife without creating opportunities for negative experiences with wildlife. For example, Cedar City is black widow country. Black widows like rock gardens, where they live in the crevasses between the rocks. If your yard is a haven for small mammals, it might attract predators of those small mammals, such as grey fox, red fox, or coyotes. Additionally, you will want to be careful to plant trees and shrubs that are generally not preferred by mule deer. When you are ready, we can provide you with a list of plant species that might be best for your yard. None of the above species are "bad" species, but they could create some concerns that you will want to be aware of.
Creating "wildlife friendly" yards can provide fabulous experiences for you and your family. But remember, please do not provide food intended for humans or pets to wildlife -- this includes not keeping your dog or cat food outside. Please remind your family to never try to tame wildlife -- to do so might have negative consequences to them or the wildlife. To maintain positive experiences with wildlife, and avoid negative experiences, we need to keep wildlife wild!
For more information, you can stop by your Iron County Extension office to talk to our Horticulturalist or you are welcome to continue to email me.
First, some general information. Skip ahead if you already know this part (smile).
All animals have the same basic needs : food, water, shelter (from the elements, from predators, and to raise young). Wildlife need these things to be in relatively close proximity to each other; how much space an animal uses to get these requirements is called its home range. For small wildlife species such as lizards and mice, your yard might encompass an animal's entire home range. For larger animals and birds, your yard might only be a small part of an animal's home range.
If you have a specific type of animal or species of animal that you are interested in, we can work together to determine some specific requirements and home range information.
Now for some ideas:
To attract a wide variety of species, you should create or maintain diversity in your yard. For example, you could establish trees and shrubs of varying heights and species, preferably in clusters, in your yard to create a diversity of shelter choices. To provide habitat for lizards, you might create a rock garden with "sun bathing" rocks. Planting native berry-producing shrubs in your yard will attract migratory birds in the fall.
In creating a "wildlife friendly" yard, please keep in mind that you might attract wildlife that you really didn't intend to. We want you to increase your positive experiences with wildlife without creating opportunities for negative experiences with wildlife. For example, Cedar City is black widow country. Black widows like rock gardens, where they live in the crevasses between the rocks. If your yard is a haven for small mammals, it might attract predators of those small mammals, such as grey fox, red fox, or coyotes. Additionally, you will want to be careful to plant trees and shrubs that are generally not preferred by mule deer. When you are ready, we can provide you with a list of plant species that might be best for your yard. None of the above species are "bad" species, but they could create some concerns that you will want to be aware of.
Creating "wildlife friendly" yards can provide fabulous experiences for you and your family. But remember, please do not provide food intended for humans or pets to wildlife -- this includes not keeping your dog or cat food outside. Please remind your family to never try to tame wildlife -- to do so might have negative consequences to them or the wildlife. To maintain positive experiences with wildlife, and avoid negative experiences, we need to keep wildlife wild!
For more information, you can stop by your Iron County Extension office to talk to our Horticulturalist or you are welcome to continue to email me.
Finding Dead Birds in Your Yard
There could be several culprits that might be at work here, depending on how many birds are dying. If there are several birds dying over the course of several days, I hate to say it, but that might be the result of poisoning or shooting. If it were just one bird, I might say a cat got it, or it hit your house and terminally injured itself or something random happened. Several deaths indicate a pattern. So, unless you have cats that like to hang out under your bird feeder as well, then...
Shooting:
If you think it is a shooting event, your best option is to call your local Utah Division of Wildlife Resources office, and ask to speak to a biologist that works with "non-game birds" to have somebody come and inspect the birds. You can also inspect the birds yourself, if you feel comfortable doing so, but the Division Biologist knows how to do so safely. If you feel comfortable, wearing gloves, you can carefully inspect the birds' bodies for any wounds that would indicate a bullet or pellet injured them.
Shooting birds within residential areas is illegal, and more importantly, is not safe for neighbors. If the birds are being shot, you need to know, and so does the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Poisoning:
This is probably not the result of the grass killer. MOST herbicides certified for residential uses are safe for wildlife species. So, this is probably not the result of the herbicide being passed up the food chain. If somebody is intentionally poisoning the doves, using a wildlife poison, a wildlife biologist will be able to notice the signs via blood in the mouth and nostrils, etc. Again, this is illegal, and this behavior is not safe for neighbors or their pets.
Disease:
Although we have not seen much activity with West Nile Virus in recent years, this could be a potential cause of death. Again, this is something that the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources should be aware of. I am not trying to cause alarm, because this is probably the least likely cause of death, but to be safe, I wanted to mention it. West Nile Virus is first detected in birds, but then may be transmitted to humans via mosquito bite. So, a group of doves dying for no other visible reason would be cause for concern.
I strongly suggest that you contact your local Division wildlife biologist, in the interest of public safety, at the very least. I hope that there is a simple solution to the problem.
There could be several culprits that might be at work here, depending on how many birds are dying. If there are several birds dying over the course of several days, I hate to say it, but that might be the result of poisoning or shooting. If it were just one bird, I might say a cat got it, or it hit your house and terminally injured itself or something random happened. Several deaths indicate a pattern. So, unless you have cats that like to hang out under your bird feeder as well, then...
Shooting:
If you think it is a shooting event, your best option is to call your local Utah Division of Wildlife Resources office, and ask to speak to a biologist that works with "non-game birds" to have somebody come and inspect the birds. You can also inspect the birds yourself, if you feel comfortable doing so, but the Division Biologist knows how to do so safely. If you feel comfortable, wearing gloves, you can carefully inspect the birds' bodies for any wounds that would indicate a bullet or pellet injured them.
Shooting birds within residential areas is illegal, and more importantly, is not safe for neighbors. If the birds are being shot, you need to know, and so does the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Poisoning:
This is probably not the result of the grass killer. MOST herbicides certified for residential uses are safe for wildlife species. So, this is probably not the result of the herbicide being passed up the food chain. If somebody is intentionally poisoning the doves, using a wildlife poison, a wildlife biologist will be able to notice the signs via blood in the mouth and nostrils, etc. Again, this is illegal, and this behavior is not safe for neighbors or their pets.
Disease:
Although we have not seen much activity with West Nile Virus in recent years, this could be a potential cause of death. Again, this is something that the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources should be aware of. I am not trying to cause alarm, because this is probably the least likely cause of death, but to be safe, I wanted to mention it. West Nile Virus is first detected in birds, but then may be transmitted to humans via mosquito bite. So, a group of doves dying for no other visible reason would be cause for concern.
I strongly suggest that you contact your local Division wildlife biologist, in the interest of public safety, at the very least. I hope that there is a simple solution to the problem.
Vole Damage Prevention
Visit our article below to read more about voles.
Visit our article below to read more about voles.
Keeping Rabbits Out of Your Vegetable Garden - Local of Iron County, Utah.
Damage from rabbits has been a plague for gardeners since we started agriculture, I think. So, there is a lot of information out there -- some information better than others. Given that you are from Iron County, I'm going to assume that you are having problems with cottontails, not jackrabbits, although the possible solutions would be similar.
Control of rabbits can come in several forms: Habitat Modification, Exclusion, Repellants, and Frightening.
First, you should try to remove anything that can create a shelter for rabbits. This would include debris and brush piles in the back of the yard, low level decks that can have a small area between the deck and the ground, a storage shed that is seldom entered by you, a fallow field with high grass; basically anything that could make a suitable place for a small rabbit to hide. By removing "rabbit friendly" habitat, you will reduce the ability of a rabbit to spend time in your yard.
Second, you will need to (try) to exclude rabbits from your garden. How you do this will depend mostly on the size of your garden and whether or not you have garden boxes or simply till the land. The best method for excluding rabbits is to build a woven wire (1-in mesh) fence about 2 ft. high. Unlike European rabbits, cottontails do not dig extensively. However, the can still dig; so if you have a smaller garden, I would suggest burying the wire mesh a couple inches into the ground. Otherwise, just make sure to have the fence very snug against the ground. If you already have a wire fence around your garden, simply attach the smaller mesh fence along the bottom, making sure it is snug to the ground and about 2 feet high.
If exclusion isn't working you may also try repellants. Repellants require more frequent attention than fences, but if used correctly they may work. The downside to many commercial repellants is that they are often not something you would like to spray on your food. However, they may be a consideration prior to your vegetables producing edible products. Some people have reported that sprinkling mothballs around the garden will repel rabbits. However, if you have a larger garden, or small children in the area, this may not be a good option.
There is a commercial market for frightening devices for most animals. To be useful, they need to be unpredictable yet constantly applied. For example, a playback of a cottontail in trouble that is attached to a motion sensor might work for you. There are also a few new devices that squirt water when activated by motion. However, it is important to remember that a hungry rabbit will conquer his/her fears in order to get food.
Damage from rabbits has been a plague for gardeners since we started agriculture, I think. So, there is a lot of information out there -- some information better than others. Given that you are from Iron County, I'm going to assume that you are having problems with cottontails, not jackrabbits, although the possible solutions would be similar.
Control of rabbits can come in several forms: Habitat Modification, Exclusion, Repellants, and Frightening.
First, you should try to remove anything that can create a shelter for rabbits. This would include debris and brush piles in the back of the yard, low level decks that can have a small area between the deck and the ground, a storage shed that is seldom entered by you, a fallow field with high grass; basically anything that could make a suitable place for a small rabbit to hide. By removing "rabbit friendly" habitat, you will reduce the ability of a rabbit to spend time in your yard.
Second, you will need to (try) to exclude rabbits from your garden. How you do this will depend mostly on the size of your garden and whether or not you have garden boxes or simply till the land. The best method for excluding rabbits is to build a woven wire (1-in mesh) fence about 2 ft. high. Unlike European rabbits, cottontails do not dig extensively. However, the can still dig; so if you have a smaller garden, I would suggest burying the wire mesh a couple inches into the ground. Otherwise, just make sure to have the fence very snug against the ground. If you already have a wire fence around your garden, simply attach the smaller mesh fence along the bottom, making sure it is snug to the ground and about 2 feet high.
If exclusion isn't working you may also try repellants. Repellants require more frequent attention than fences, but if used correctly they may work. The downside to many commercial repellants is that they are often not something you would like to spray on your food. However, they may be a consideration prior to your vegetables producing edible products. Some people have reported that sprinkling mothballs around the garden will repel rabbits. However, if you have a larger garden, or small children in the area, this may not be a good option.
There is a commercial market for frightening devices for most animals. To be useful, they need to be unpredictable yet constantly applied. For example, a playback of a cottontail in trouble that is attached to a motion sensor might work for you. There are also a few new devices that squirt water when activated by motion. However, it is important to remember that a hungry rabbit will conquer his/her fears in order to get food.
Finding Mysterious Dirt Piles In My Yard? - From Local of Lehi, Utah.
Finding random piles of dirt in your lawn can seem weird indeed. Sorry you are having critter troubles. Based on our conversation and your photos, the only animal I know that would do that is a pocket gopher. However, they usually make dirt pile trails above ground during the winter that you see when the snow melts. Because you don't have those, your pocket gopher is probably new to your yard. Other than the dirt, they won't really do TOO much damage to a yard in low densities. They eat the roots and shoots, and sometimes above ground vegetation. Farmers don't like them because they can eat enough of the alfalfa roots to damage the plant, and pushing the soil damages new shoots. And you probably don't care for the piles of dirt in your beautiful grass.
If you would like to control them, the best option for a residential area is a lethal control trap. Recently, my research has determined that using a Macabee trap is the easiest lethal trap to deploy. You can find these traps at any farmers’ supply shop or home improvement store.
Finding random piles of dirt in your lawn can seem weird indeed. Sorry you are having critter troubles. Based on our conversation and your photos, the only animal I know that would do that is a pocket gopher. However, they usually make dirt pile trails above ground during the winter that you see when the snow melts. Because you don't have those, your pocket gopher is probably new to your yard. Other than the dirt, they won't really do TOO much damage to a yard in low densities. They eat the roots and shoots, and sometimes above ground vegetation. Farmers don't like them because they can eat enough of the alfalfa roots to damage the plant, and pushing the soil damages new shoots. And you probably don't care for the piles of dirt in your beautiful grass.
If you would like to control them, the best option for a residential area is a lethal control trap. Recently, my research has determined that using a Macabee trap is the easiest lethal trap to deploy. You can find these traps at any farmers’ supply shop or home improvement store.
Can I Scoop Out Ducklings Trapped in My Swimming Pool?
Yes, please scoop them out with a handled net. There are several dangers, to you and the ducklings, to having them stay in the pool. First, they need to eat frequently and there is no food in your pool! Unlike songbirds, mother ducks do not feed their young, they need to find food themselves. Second, ducks have natural oils to increase their buoyancy, as their feathers get wet they will start to use more energy to stay afloat. Eventually, they will get exhausted and may drown. Ducklings have very few feathers, and therefore they can quickly drown if they get too tired. Finally, ducks in your pool are a health risk to humans that may use the pool. Yes, you put chemicals in your pool to kill bacteria; however, it doesn't eliminate the risk of contamination from duck droppings in your swimming water. You should remove the ducklings and consider covering your pool for a few days until the duck and ducklings move out of the area.
Yes, please scoop them out with a handled net. There are several dangers, to you and the ducklings, to having them stay in the pool. First, they need to eat frequently and there is no food in your pool! Unlike songbirds, mother ducks do not feed their young, they need to find food themselves. Second, ducks have natural oils to increase their buoyancy, as their feathers get wet they will start to use more energy to stay afloat. Eventually, they will get exhausted and may drown. Ducklings have very few feathers, and therefore they can quickly drown if they get too tired. Finally, ducks in your pool are a health risk to humans that may use the pool. Yes, you put chemicals in your pool to kill bacteria; however, it doesn't eliminate the risk of contamination from duck droppings in your swimming water. You should remove the ducklings and consider covering your pool for a few days until the duck and ducklings move out of the area.
Persuading Vultures to Leave an Area - Question From Utah Resident
Turkey vultures are native to the western United States, playing a vital role in our ecosystem as scavengers - cleaning up dead animals. Turkey vultures are protected from lethal control in the US, and for good reason. In India, where vultures are not protected from pesticides and poisoning, vulture populations have crashed, and the government is having a serious issue trying to remove carcasses that would otherwise be taken care of by vultures.
Vultures are so much easier to admire when they are not roosting in your yard in a large flock. But there is good news! Usually vultures only flock in the spring and the fall when they are migrating. And they prefer to nest in areas not often visited by humans. If you can’t wait for them to leave there are 2 things you can do.
1. Hang an effigy in your tree. Many species of birds such as ravens, crows, and vultures are very keen to recognize a dangerous situation. Research has shown that hanging a dead bird by the feet from a pole or tree branch will cause the other birds to abandon the area. It may not be a 100% removal, but it mostly likely will significantly reduce the number of vultures roosting in your tree. You could probably use a dead raven or crow that you’ve found (don’t kill one – they are protected too!). Or there are effigies or even plush animals that you can purchase online.
2. Use a laser gun to disturb them. I honestly am not sure why, but shining a red laser gun into the flock, and also at individual birds, at night will disrupt the flock. This has been tested on waterbirds and birds that have mistakenly tried to roost on airports. A simple search online of “red laser gun” will provide you with links to several laser guns for you to choose from.
Turkey vultures are native to the western United States, playing a vital role in our ecosystem as scavengers - cleaning up dead animals. Turkey vultures are protected from lethal control in the US, and for good reason. In India, where vultures are not protected from pesticides and poisoning, vulture populations have crashed, and the government is having a serious issue trying to remove carcasses that would otherwise be taken care of by vultures.
Vultures are so much easier to admire when they are not roosting in your yard in a large flock. But there is good news! Usually vultures only flock in the spring and the fall when they are migrating. And they prefer to nest in areas not often visited by humans. If you can’t wait for them to leave there are 2 things you can do.
1. Hang an effigy in your tree. Many species of birds such as ravens, crows, and vultures are very keen to recognize a dangerous situation. Research has shown that hanging a dead bird by the feet from a pole or tree branch will cause the other birds to abandon the area. It may not be a 100% removal, but it mostly likely will significantly reduce the number of vultures roosting in your tree. You could probably use a dead raven or crow that you’ve found (don’t kill one – they are protected too!). Or there are effigies or even plush animals that you can purchase online.
2. Use a laser gun to disturb them. I honestly am not sure why, but shining a red laser gun into the flock, and also at individual birds, at night will disrupt the flock. This has been tested on waterbirds and birds that have mistakenly tried to roost on airports. A simple search online of “red laser gun” will provide you with links to several laser guns for you to choose from.
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?
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