What should I do if I find a bat in my house?

If the bat was in a room with someone who was sleeping, or with a young child or pet, contain it in the room if safe to do so and immediately contact the Westchester County Health Department for guidance on rabies testing . Otherwise, you can open windows and allow it to leave at dusk, or call a wildlife professional for safe removal.

Is it free to have an animal removed by the city of White Plains?

Municipal animal control services in White Plains and most of Westchester County are generally focused on domestic pets like dogs and cats. For nuisance wildlife, free removal services are extremely rare; homeowners typically need to contact a private, licensed wildlife control operator .

Can I trap and relocate a raccoon or squirrel myself?

No. Raccoons and most squirrels are protected species in New York. Trapping and relocating them without a permit from the NYSDEC is illegal. Furthermore, relocation often simply moves the problem to another property and can spread disease .

Who do I call for a dead deer or other large animal on my property?

For dead wildlife on private property, the responsibility for removal generally falls to the landowner. You can contact a private wildlife removal company or a local rendering service. The NYSDEC may collect carcasses for disease surveillance if there is a suspicion of a larger outbreak .

What's the difference between a pest control company and a wildlife removal specialist?

While there is overlap, wildlife removal specialists (NWCOs) are specifically licensed and trained for handling mammals and birds, often focusing on exclusion and structural repairs. General pest control companies may be licensed for insects and rodents but not for larger protected wildlife. Many companies offer both services .

How can I stop woodpeckers from damaging my house?

Woodpeckers are protected migratory birds. You cannot harm them or their nests. Effective deterrents include hanging reflective tape, installing a decoy hawk, or covering the affected area with bird netting. A wildlife professional can advise on the best legal methods for your situation .

How quickly can a wildlife control operator come out?

Most reputable companies offer emergency or same-day service for urgent situations, such as an animal inside the living areas of a home. For less critical issues, an appointment within 24-48 hours is common.

Pest Control in White Plains, NY,

Discovering an uninvited animal in your attic, chimney, or walls can be unsettling. In White Plains, managing wildlife conflicts requires a clear understanding of New York's strict regulations, which protect most native species. This guide explains the local laws, clarifies when you need a professional, and outlines practical steps for humane and legal animal control. You can use this information to find qualified local specialists who handle everything from inspection and trapping to exclusion and cleanup.

GoSafe Pest Control LLC

264-07 Langston Ave unit B, Glen Oaks, NY 11004

GoSafe Pest Control LLC is a locally owned pest control company serving New York, NY. They provide a range of pest management services including bed bug treatment, cockroach and ant control, rodent control, termite inspections, mosquito control, bee and wasp removal, bird and pigeon control, and wildlife removal. The company offers eco-friendly solutions tailored to client schedules, with options for weekly to seasonal visits.

5.0

213 Reviews

800-Raccoon Pest & Wildlife Control

32-07 Astoria Blvd N, Astoria, NY 11102

800-Raccoon Pest & Wildlife Control is a family-owned pest control company serving New York, NY, with over 45 years of experience. They offer comprehensive pest management services including rodent control, termite inspections, mosquito control, and humane wildlife removal for both residential and commercial properties. Their approach covers all aspects of pest prevention and treatment to protect homes and businesses effectively. The company emphasizes a thorough, multi-step process to ensure complete pest protection and peace of mind for their clients.

5.0

181 Reviews

Optimum Pest Control

2444 Boston Post Rd Suite 1020, Larchmont, NY 10538

Optimum Pest Control is a pest control company serving Yonkers, NY, and the broader Westchester region. They offer services including cockroach, ant, rodent, termite, bird, and wildlife removal. The company provides personalized pest management plans and uses green, family- and pet-friendly treatments with integrated pest management techniques. A notable capability is their use of video monitoring to enhance rodent control programs. With over 20 years of experience, Optimum Pest Control combines advanced methods with environmental awareness to address pest issues effectively.

5.0

143 Reviews

Horizon Pest Control

45 Cross Ave, Midland Park, NJ 07432

Horizon Pest Control is a family-owned pest control company serving New York, NY, and New Jersey. Established in 1970, they provide residential and commercial pest management services including bed bug treatment, ant control, rodent removal, termite inspections, mosquito control, and wildlife removal. Their licensed technicians use advanced, EPA-approved products to ensure safe and effective pest control. Horizon Pest Control offers comprehensive protection plans covering over 40 common pests and guarantees follow-up service if pests return. They serve multiple counties in New Jersey and New York, including Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

4.9

3.1k Reviews

Excel Pest Services

1020 Teaneck Rd, Teaneck, NJ 07666

Excel Pest Services is a pest control company based near New York, NY, specializing in comprehensive pest management for both residential and commercial clients in Bergen County. With over 30 years of experience, they address common local pests including ants, rodents, termites, bed bugs, mosquitoes, and wildlife. Their termite control includes thorough inspections and tailored treatments such as liquid barriers and bait stations. Rodent control involves detailed inspections, sealing entry points, and strategic trapping or baiting. Bed bug services feature thorough inspections and treatments targeting all life stages, with follow-up visits to ensure effectiveness. They use eco-friendly methods and integrated pest management strategies to provide long-term protection.

4.9

1.7k Reviews

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Understanding New York's Wildlife Protection Laws

New York State has robust laws designed to protect its native wildlife. This means you cannot simply trap and remove many animals you might find on your property. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) classifies animals as either protected or unprotected, and this distinction dictates your legal options ¹ ².

Protected Species: This category includes most mammals and birds you're likely to encounter. Raccoons, squirrels (except red squirrels), bats, foxes, opossums, and even migratory birds like woodpeckers and hawks are protected ³ ⁴ ⁵. For these animals, a landowner typically cannot "take" (which includes trapping, harming, or killing) the animal without a specific permit from the NYSDEC. In practice, this means hiring a licensed Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO), who holds the necessary state and federal permits ¹.
Unprotected Species: Some common pests are not protected by state law. This group includes house mice, rats, English sparrows, European starlings, and rock pigeons ³ ⁶ ⁷. For these species, homeowners can generally use DIY control methods. However, note that if you plan to use a firearm or bow, you must possess a valid New York State hunting license, even on your own property ⁷.

Navigating these regulations is the first critical step in any wildlife removal situation in Westchester County.

Common Wildlife Issues in White Plains Homes

The suburban landscape of White Plains, with its mix of mature trees, green spaces, and older homes, is attractive to various wildlife seeking food and shelter.

Raccoons: These intelligent animals are notorious for tearing into attic vents, soffits, and chimneys to create dens. They can cause significant structural damage and pose a rabies risk ³ ⁸.
Squirrels: Gray squirrels often enter attics and wall voids, where they chew on wires (a fire hazard), insulation, and wood. Hearing scratching or rolling noises during the day is a common sign ⁴ ⁹.
Bats: Small colonies of little brown bats or big brown bats may roost in attics. A single bat flying indoors is a health concern due to the potential for rabies exposure, and professional exclusion is required to seal their entry points after they've left ³ ¹⁰.
Rodents: While mice and rats are unprotected, they are a persistent problem. They contaminate food, chew materials, and can carry diseases. Their constant gnawing can also create entry points for larger animals ⁶.
Birds: Pigeons and starlings can nest in vents, on ledges, and in eaves, creating noise and unsanitary droppings. Protected birds like woodpeckers, however, require a professional approach ³ ⁴.

When You Must Call a Professional Wildlife Remover

For the safety of both you and the animal, there are clear situations where DIY is not just difficult-it's illegal or unsafe.

The animal is a protected species. As outlined above, attempting to trap or relocate a raccoon, squirrel (excluding red), bat, or most other native wildlife without a permit is against the law ¹ ⁵.
The animal is inside your living space. A bat in a bedroom, a raccoon in a chimney, or a squirrel in a wall void requires careful, professional handling to avoid cornering the animal and creating a dangerous situation ⁸ ¹¹.
There is a risk of disease. Any contact between a bat and a human or pet must be reported to the Westchester County Health Department for rabies assessment ¹⁰. Sick or abnormally behaving wildlife should also be reported to the NYSDEC ¹⁰.
The infestation is in a difficult area. Animals in attics, crawl spaces, or between walls often require specialized tools for safe removal and, crucially, for finding and sealing all entry points to prevent recurrence ⁹.
Cleanup and restoration are needed. Wildlife droppings (guano), urine, and nesting materials can soil insulation, pose biohazards, and cause odors. Professionals offer decontamination and repair services ³ ⁸.

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What a Licensed Wildlife Control Professional Does

A licensed Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) provides a comprehensive service that goes far beyond simply setting a trap. Their process is methodical and designed for a permanent solution ³ ⁹.

Inspection: The technician will perform a thorough inspection of your property, inside and out, to identify the pest species, locate all active entry points, and assess the extent of the damage.
Removal: Using legally approved methods, they will remove the animals. This may involve live trapping, one-way exclusion doors, or other techniques tailored to the species and situation. They handle all animals in compliance with NYSDEC regulations ¹.
Exclusion: This is the most critical step for preventing future problems. The professional will seal every identified entry point with durable materials like steel mesh, hardware cloth, or chimney caps, ensuring animals cannot re-enter ⁸ ¹¹.
Cleanup and Decontamination: They will remove contaminated insulation, nesting materials, and droppings. The area is then treated with enzymatic cleaners and disinfectants to eliminate odors and health hazards ³.
Restoration: Some companies offer repair services for damage caused by wildlife, such as chewed wires, torn vent screens, or damaged soffits, restoring your home to a secure condition ⁹.

DIY Prevention and Control for Unprotected Pests

For unprotected species like mice, rats, and certain birds, proactive homeowners can take effective measures.

Exclusion is Key: The best control is prevention. Seal cracks in the foundation, install door sweeps, and cover vents with 1/4-inch hardware cloth. Repair damaged roof tiles and soffits to deny entry ⁶ ¹¹.
Sanitation: Eliminate food sources. Keep pet food indoors, secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids, and pick up fallen fruit from trees ¹¹.
For Mice and Rats: Use snap traps or live traps placed along walls where rodents travel. Glue boards and poison baits are generally less recommended due to safety and humane concerns ⁶.
For Pigeons and Starlings: Use physical deterrents like bird netting, spike strips on ledges, or visual scare devices. Ensure they cannot access preferred roosting spots ⁴.

Remember, even for DIY, if you are dealing with a large infestation or cannot locate entry points, calling a professional for an inspection is a wise investment.

Understanding Costs for Wildlife Removal Services

The cost for professional wildlife control in White Plains varies significantly based on the animal, the location of the problem, and the extent of the work required. Simple trapping and removal for a single animal like a raccoon or groundhog may start in the hundreds of dollars ¹². However, complex jobs are more expensive. A full attic restoration for a squirrel or raccoon infestation, which includes removal, decontamination, insulation replacement, and complete exclusion sealing, can easily cost $599 or more ³ ⁸ ¹². Bat exclusion, which involves installing one-way exits at every potential entry point, is also a detailed and price-sensitive service. Always get a detailed, written inspection and estimate before work begins.

Local Resources and Who to Contact

NYSDEC Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator List: This is the official state resource for finding licensed professionals in your area. Always verify a company's NWCO license number ¹.
NYSDEC Regional Wildlife Office: For questions about regulations, permits, or to report a problem with protected wildlife, contact the DEC's Region 3 office, which covers Westchester County ².
Westchester County Department of Health: Report any incident of a bat in a room with a sleeping person, a child, or a pet. Also report sightings of sick or dead wildlife that may indicate disease ¹⁰.
Westchester County Animal Services: This agency typically handles domestic animal issues (stray dogs and cats). For true wildlife problems, you will be directed to private NWCOs or the DEC ¹³.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator - NYSDEC - https://dec.ny.gov/regulatory/permits-licenses/fish-wildlife-plant/special-licenses/nuisance-wildlife-control ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵
Nuisance Wildlife Species - NYSDEC - https://dec.ny.gov/nature/animals-fish-plants/nuisance-wildlife-species ↩ ↩²
White Plains Wildlife Animal Control - Nuisance Removal - http://www.wildlifeanimalcontrol.com/White-Plains.html ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵ ↩⁶ ↩⁷ ↩⁸ ↩⁹
Nuisance Wildlife in New York - Identification & Control - https://pestech.com/blog/new-york-pest-wildlife/ ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴
Dealing with Wildlife and the New York Laws That Protect Them - https://ecommons.cornell.edu/bitstreams/7e128507-1b23-4102-ae9b-abe6dad7f2c2/download ↩ ↩²
Remove Or "Take" Nuisance Animals Legally - NYSDEC - https://dec.ny.gov/nature/animals-fish-plants/nuisance-wildlife-species/remove-take-legally ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴
Small Game Hunting - NYSDEC - https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting/small-game ↩ ↩²
Animal control White Plains NY. - Wildlife Busters - https://wildlifebusters.com/white-plains/ ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵
Wildlife Removal White Plains New York - Pinnacle Wildlife Control - https://pinnaclewildlifecontrol.com/wildlife-control-white-plains/ ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴
Reporting Dead Wildlife - NYSDEC - https://dec.ny.gov/nature/wildlife-health/reporting-dead-wildlife ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴
Tips To Eliminate Wildlife Conflicts - NYSDEC - https://dec.ny.gov/nature/animals-fish-plants/nuisance-wildlife-species/tips-to-eliminate-wildlife-conflicts ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴
Prices for White Plains Wildlife Pest Control Animal Trapping - http://www.aaanimalcontrol.com/professional-trapper/prices/NY-White-Plains-prices.htm ↩ ↩²
White Plains Wildlife Removal, Pest Animal Control NY - http://www.wildlife-removal.com/city/NY-White-Plains.htm ↩

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