Ask the Wildlife Damage Management Expert
The Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management kn
ows that sometimes special and specific assistance is
needed.
We are here to help you.
Hi. I am Stephen Vantassel, webmaster of the ICWDM.org. I don't have all the answers but if I don't know the answer, chances are I know someone who does.
But before I can help you, I need you to do a few things. Please visit these pages if for nothing else to make sure that you are familiar with some terms and know what the animal/problem isn't. Becoming better informed will help me, help you.
Damage ID
If you don't know what animal is causing the damage, be sure to visit Animal Identification
How to Stop the Damage
Control methods information for specific species can be found at http://icwdm.org/Publications/WildlifeFactSheets.aspx and The Handbook
Tips to Help Us Answer Your Question
If after reading that information, you still have questions, then by all means drop me a line. In your question please include the following information so I can assist you better
1. State/region where the problem is occurring.
2. Describe what resources on our site you have utilized.
3. Explain the nature of the damage,
Is it inside/outside a building
Does the damage occur at night or during the
day?
What specifically is the problem? gnawing, predation, crop
damage, etc.
4. What have you tried in an attempt to mitigate the damage?
5. Do you have high quality photos? If yes, provide submit photos along
with answers to the above questions. Lean how to take better photos at
Take Better Photos (by
submitting photos you grant UNL Board of Regents and ICWDM.org unrestricted
use of those images.)
6. Understand our disclaimers and terms of use.
Note.
We no longer provide free consultation on scat/feces identification.
If after using our free resources
on scat/feces identification, you still want our opinion, then please
visit
The Scat Identification Page on our Store. Cost is only $5.00.
We do not honor privacy and confidentiality disclaimers in e-mails unless the ICWDM is under contract!
Disclaimer: As with any activity, remember that animal damage control comes with its own risks and problems which can include but are not limited to legalities, health threats, and personal liabilities. Be sure to follow all state laws governing wildlife and make sure you have a thorough understanding on how to resolve the animal damage complaint. Our advice is only as good as your understanding of our recommendations and our understanding of your situation. If you have any questions be sure to write back.
You can also call 402-472-8961. I am often in the office between 8:30-5:00 M-F CST. If
you don't reach me, try again. Given our recent call volume, we cannot
afford to continue returning out-of-state calls. All Nebraska calls are
returned. Every attempt is made to respond to e-mails that satisfy our
information needs as noted above. However, we will not take the time to fill
out spam filter exceptions. So we strongly suggest you turn them off if you
have have them.
Questions can be e-mailed to
Ask the Expert; I will abide by Terms of Use