Wildlife Control vs. Pest Control: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve seen something furry scurry across your kitchen or caught a glimpse of a snake slithering near your porch, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Who do I even call for this?” While both situations involve unwelcome visitors, they fall into different categories. That’s where understanding wildlife control vs. pest control becomes super helpful. Knowing which service to call can save time, money and a whole lot of trouble.

Wildlife Control vs. Pest Control: Two Different Approaches

Pest control focuses on removing or eliminating common household pests like mice, rats, ants, cockroaches and termites. These critters are small, fast-breeding and typically treated with traps, baits or chemical solutions. The goal is to stop an infestation and prevent it from returning by treating the source and surrounding environment.

Wildlife control is different. It deals with larger animals like raccoons, snakes, squirrels, bats, opossums and even bees and wasps. These animals are not typically considered pests in the traditional sense. They might accidentally enter homes or settle too close for comfort, but they are often protected by laws or require specific removal methods. Wildlife control involves humane traps, safe relocation, habitat modification and repair of entry points to prevent them from returning.

When to Call Wildlife Control Instead of Pest Control

If you’ve got mice running through your kitchen, that’s a pest control problem. But if you see a raccoon staring at you from your attic or a swarm of bees hanging out on your porch, it’s time to call a wildlife control specialist. The Snake Chaser handles these situations with care, making sure animals are safely removed and either relocated or directed to proper rehabilitation when needed.

Our team also handles stinging insects like wasps and bees. Unlike common bugs like ants or roaches, these flying creatures can fall under wildlife control because of their nesting behaviors and in the case of bees, legal protections.

Why It Matters

Mixing up the two can cost you time and money. Pest control professionals might not have the training or tools needed for larger, protected or more complex wildlife situations. On the flip side, a wildlife control company might not be the best fit for standard bug or rodent treatments. Choosing the right professional helps ensure that your problem is handled safely, legally and effectively.

Call the Right Crew the First Time

When it comes to wildlife control vs. pest control, it’s all about knowing who handles what. For nuisance wildlife, stinging insects and creatures that need a careful and humane touch, The Snake Chaser is your go-to team. We’re experts at safely relocating animals, closing up entry points and restoring peace to your home or yard.

If you’re not sure what you’re dealing with, don’t guess. Give The Snake Chaser a call and we’ll help you figure it out and handle it the right way.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between wildlife control and pest control?

Wildlife control focuses on managing larger animals like raccoons, squirrels, snakes, bats and even bees and wasps, which are typically protected or regulated. These services involve humane trapping, relocation and exclusion to prevent future entry. Pest control, on the other hand, deals with insects and rodents like ants, cockroaches, and mice. The goal of pest control is to eliminate infestations using methods like baiting, spraying and other treatments. If it flies, slithers, or nests in your attic and isn’t a bug or a rodent, it’s usually a job for wildlife control.

2. Can a pest control company remove wildlife from my home?

Most pest control companies are not trained or licensed to handle wildlife. Removing animals like raccoons, snakes or bats requires a different approach, often involving permits, safety precautions and knowledge of animal behavior. Wildlife control companies specialize in this type of work and know how to safely remove and relocate animals while protecting your home from future visits. If you’re dealing with anything bigger or more unpredictable than a mouse, wildlife control is the safer and more effective choice.

3. Who should I call for bees or wasps in my home?

Even though bees and wasps are insects, handling their nests or swarms falls under wildlife control in most areas. These species can be aggressive and sometimes protected, so they require specialized care. Wildlife control experts know how to safely remove them without harming the colony when possible, especially in the case of bees. If you spot a hive or hear buzzing behind a wall, call a wildlife control professional to assess the situation and keep your space safe.