Living in Wichita means sharing our environment with a variety of wildlife, from squirrels and raccoons to opossums, skunks, and even the occasional coyote. While these animals are a natural part of the ecosystem, encounters in your own backyard can be startling and sometimes risky. Knowing how to respond helps protect both your family and the animal.
Stay Calm and Keep Your Distance
The first and most important step is to stay calm. Sudden movements or loud noises can startle wildlife and cause defensive behavior. Avoid approaching the animal, and keep children and pets indoors until the animal has moved on.
Secure Food Sources and Shelter
Wildlife is often attracted to backyards in search of food or shelter. To reduce encounters:
-
Store garbage in tightly sealed containers.
-
Remove pet food from outside.
-
Clean up fallen bird seed or fruit from trees.
-
Block access to sheds, decks, or crawl spaces where animals may try to nest.
Watch for Signs of Aggressive or Unusual Behavior
If the animal seems unusually aggressive, disoriented, or sick, it could be a sign of illness. In these cases, it’s especially important to avoid contact and call a wildlife control professional right away.
Legal and Safety Concerns
Some animals are protected under state or federal law, meaning it is illegal to trap, harm, or relocate them without proper permits. Attempting to handle these animals yourself can result in fines and put you at risk of injury or disease. Calling a licensed wildlife control professional ensures the situation is handled safely and legally.
What NOT to Do
It’s important to avoid common mistakes that can make encounters more dangerous:
-
Do not attempt to feed or lure the animal.
-
Do not try to trap or remove the animal yourself.
-
Do not corner or approach wildlife, even if it appears calm.
-
Do not use DIY repellents or chemicals that could harm pets, children, or the animal.
Know When to Call for Help
Not every backyard sighting requires removal. Many animals will simply move on. However, if an animal appears trapped, injured, aggressive, or has made a home on your property, it’s best to call experts like Critter Control of Wichita. Trained specialists use safe, humane methods to remove wildlife and help prevent future intrusions.
Responsible Wildlife Encounters
Encountering wildlife in your backyard is a reminder of the natural world around us. By staying calm, avoiding direct contact, following legal and safety guidelines, and calling for professional assistance when needed, you can ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals.