Wildlife Control in Walnut Creek
Protecting Your Property from Local Critters
Walnut Creek is known for its beautiful open spaces and proximity to nature, but this natural beauty often means that wildlife lives closer to our homes than we might expect. Residents frequently encounter issues with raccoons raiding trash cans, skunks taking up residence under decks, or squirrels finding their way into attics. These uninvited guests can cause significant property damage, create unpleasant odors, and pose safety concerns for your pets and children, making professional intervention necessary to restore order to your property.
At California Exterminating Services, we are proud of our deep roots in Walnut Creek and understand the unique challenges of living in this community. Founded in 1953, our family-owned company approaches wildlife control with a commitment to humane and effective practices. We use our 71+ years of experience to provide solutions that not only remove the immediate problem but also prevent future intrusions, restoring the sense of security you need to enjoy your home without worry.
Need help with nuisance animals? Call us today at (925) 438-6454, or contact us online for professional service backed by decades of experience.
Common Wildlife Intruders and Risks
In suburban environments, certain wildlife species have adapted remarkably well to living near humans, often seeking food and shelter in our homes and gardens. Understanding the behavior of these animals is the first step in recognizing when professional help is required. Unlike insects, wildlife intruders are often larger, louder, and capable of causing rapid physical damage to a structure.
- Raccoons: Highly intelligent and dexterous, raccoons are notorious for tipping over garbage cans, tearing off shingles to enter attics, and damaging vents. They can also carry dangerous diseases like raccoon roundworm.
- Skunks: Known primarily for their potent defensive spray, skunks often burrow under porches, decks, or sheds. Their presence creates a risk of unpleasant odors and potential conflicts with domestic pets.
- Squirrels: While they may seem harmless, squirrels can be destructive when they nest in attics. They have a compulsion to chew, which often leads to damaged electrical wiring and compromised structural wood.
- Opossums: These scavengers are opportunistic and will often inhabit crawl spaces or basements if accessible. While generally less aggressive, they can carry fleas and create unsanitary conditions.
- Property Damage: Beyond the animals themselves, the search for nesting sites often results in torn insulation, holes in siding, and uprooted landscaping.
Our Humane Approach to Wildlife Control
At California Exterminating Services, we believe that effective wildlife control does not have to be harmful. We enthusiastically embrace Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles to manage wildlife conflicts responsibly. Our approach focuses on removing the animal safely while simultaneously addressing the environmental factors that attracted them, ensuring a long-term solution that respects local ecosystems.
- Comprehensive Inspection: We begin by carefully inspecting your property to identify the species involved, locate their entry points, and assess the extent of the activity.
- Humane Trapping: When removal is necessary, we use safe, humane trapping methods designed to capture the animal without causing harm, adhering to all local regulations.
- Exclusion Services: We don't just remove the animal; we seal the entry points they used. This exclusion work is vital to prevent new wildlife from moving into the vacated space.
- Habitat Modification: We advise on how to alter conditions around your home—such as securing trash or removing food sources—to make your property less attractive to pests.
- Fast and Efficient Results: We pride ourselves on providing prompt service to resolve the issue quickly, minimizing stress for both the homeowner and the animal.
Our Wildlife Control Services
How We Can Help
The Importance of Professional Service
Handling wildlife requires specific knowledge and equipment that the average homeowner simply does not possess. Attempting to trap or remove wild animals on your own can be dangerous, leading to bites, scratches, or exposure to diseases such as rabies or distemper. Furthermore, improper trapping techniques can result in injury to the animal or the accidental capture of non-target species, including neighborhood pets.
There are also strict legal regulations regarding the trapping and relocation of wildlife in California. Professionals are well-versed in these laws and ensure that all activities are conducted legally and ethically. Hiring a licensed service protects you from potential liability and ensures that the animals are treated with the appropriate care and respect mandated by state guidelines.
Finally, removing the animal is only half the battle; without proper exclusion and cleanup, the problem is likely to recur. Professional wildlife control experts have the training to identify subtle entry points and structural vulnerabilities that a layperson might miss. They provide a comprehensive solution that secures the home against future invasions, offering a level of protection that DIY methods cannot guarantee.
KEEPING CRITTERS AT BAY, ONE FIVE-STAR REVIEW AT A TIME!
Hear from Our Happy Customers
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"I always have dealt with Kevin, but this time Michael came and was equally as great. Fantastic service!!"I've used them before for ants and have had excellent service. When I discovered the mice in my garage I knew instantly who to call.- Robin S.
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"We were very satisfied with the job they did!"California Exterminating was fast to respond to our call for help with the bees. They came out killed the bees and disposed of the hive.- Kathy P.
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"Very professional and fast."left a message for three companies and these guys called within half an hour. That was amazing in itself. The owner was very nice and professional and said he'd have someone out here between 11-1 p.m. His exterminator was out by 10:45 and after talking som- Marnie S.
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"Their treatments really work!"They come out quarterly to spray the outside of our home for ants. They always call the night before and tell you when they will be out and which tech will be coming.- Ronald O.
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"I would recommend them to anyone who is looking for a exterminator."I really liked the man I worked with. Really helpful. He explained things to me like I was a real person. Courteous and respectful. They didn't talk down to me.- Marilyn D.
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"Each time I've called, they have come out the same day and been extremely accommodating."Michael came out, showed up right on time, was extremely professional and explained exactly what he was doing and why. They have come out 3 times total because the ants have been tough to get rid of completely.- Angela M.
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"Indeed, this pest prevention service is effective, and the price is reasonable."My tenant reported hearing scratching noise in attic at night time. I called Kevin in the morning and he sent a technician to help in the afternoon. After the service was completed, the tenant never hears the noise again- Charles S.
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"I give them all A’s for their services. I would call them back out in the future."California Exterminating took care of some bed bugs. He came over and dealt with it. He came out three times. He did an excellent job. The health department got involved, because I was a little freaked out. He had reasonable prices for the work. I give him- Scott L.
Why Choose Us for Wildlife Control in Walnut Creek
Choosing the right partner for wildlife issues means finding a company that balances technical expertise with a genuine care for the community. We are not just a service provider; we are your neighbors in Walnut Creek and the East Bay. At California Exterminating Services, we combine our deep local roots with professional excellence to offer a service you can trust.
- 71+ Years of Wisdom: Since 1953, we have refined our techniques to handle even the trickiest wildlife situations with skill and care.
- Local Understanding: Our deep roots in Walnut Creek mean we are familiar with the specific local wildlife and the challenges they pose to homeowners in our area.
- Family-Owned Integrity: We treat your home and family with the same protection and respect we demand for our own, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.
- Licensed & Insured: Our team is fully licensed and insured, providing you with dependable service that adheres to the highest industry standards.
- Affordable Solutions: We offer premium wildlife control that fits your budget, ensuring you don't have to overspend to reclaim your home.
- Prompt Response: We understand the urgency of wildlife issues and provide fast, efficient results to restore your peace of mind.
We take our responsibility seriously, protecting your family and property while respecting the wildlife that shares our environment.
Trust the team with 71+ years of experience. Call us today at (925) 438-6454, or contact us online for professional service and affordable results.
Tips for Wildlife-Proofing Your Yard
Prevention is the most effective way to keep your home free from nuisance wildlife. Animals are usually drawn to residential areas by the availability of food, water, and shelter. By making a few simple adjustments to your daily routine and yard maintenance, you can significantly reduce the appeal of your property to wild visitors.
Secure your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids or use bungee cords to prevent raccoons from tipping them over. If you have pets, avoid leaving food bowls outside overnight, as the scent is a major attractant for skunks and opossums. Additionally, inspect the exterior of your home for potential hiding spots; keep firewood piles elevated and away from the house, and trim back tree branches that provide easy access to your roof. These small steps create a less inviting environment for wildlife, encouraging them to move along.
FAQs About Wildlife Control
Is your wildlife removal process safe for my pets?
Yes, absolutely. At California Exterminating Services, we prioritize the safety of your family and pets above all else. We use humane trapping methods and targeted strategies that are designed to capture the specific nuisance animal without posing a threat to your domestic cats or dogs.
What happens to the animals after they are caught?
We adhere strictly to California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations regarding the trapping and handling of wildlife. Our goal is to resolve the conflict humanely and legally. Depending on the species and local laws, we focus on trapping and, where permitted, relocating or handling the animal in the most ethical manner possible.
Can’t I just seal the hole in my attic myself?
We strongly advise against sealing entry points until you are certain the animal is gone. If you seal a raccoon or squirrel inside your attic, they can cause massive damage trying to escape, or they may perish inside, creating significant odor and health issues. Our team ensures the space is empty before performing any exclusion work.
Do you handle dead animal removal?
Yes, we understand that finding a deceased animal on your property can be distressing and unsanitary. We provide efficient removal services to dispose of the animal safely and can help identify how it entered your property to prevent future issues.
How do I know if I have a skunk or a raccoon?
While both are active at night, the signs often differ. Skunks are usually identified by their distinct odor and small, cone-shaped holes in the lawn where they dig for grubs. Raccoons are larger, tend to make more noise (thumping or scratching), and are more likely to damage roof vents or tip over heavy trash cans. An inspection by our team can confirm the culprit.