With drought conditions still extreme in central Texas, Austin Animal Control is in full swing. Wildlife, such as raccoons, opossums, armadillos, skunks, snakes and even deer have been wandering out of their natural habitat in search of food and water. These critters usually mean no harm but the instinct to survive can and will bring many of them into populated areas where they would not normally travel. Some of them could very well find themselves in your back yard.

Many of these creatures are nocturnal, meaning they forage for food during the night. Raccoons are notorious for getting into outside pet food containers, turning over trash cans and making themselves at home in your attic. They will usually become very aggressive if they feel threatened. Skunks seem to prefer cool, dark places like under a house or porch. Although a skunk would rather run than fight, they will spray you or your pet if backed into a corner. Squirrels can wreak havoc in an attic, tearing up insulation and chewing wires. Armadillos can destroy a yard or garden in one night, leaving holes in the ground that can easily cause a twisted ankle if you were to step in one.

Deer are flight animals. They are very timid and spook easily. A frightened deer will do anything to escape it's cause of fear, including crashing through a glass door or window. If you encounter any form of wildlife, call animal control Austin to set up an appointment for a trained professional to asses the situation. Do not, under any circumstances, try to catch or handle a wild animal yourself. Many of them carry diseases that can make you and your pets very ill, or worse.

Once an animal control officer has inspected your home or property, appropriate trapping devices will be set up. When an animal does get caught in the trap, call Austin Animal Control immediately so they can pick the animal up. If left in a trap too long, especially during hot weather, it can be detrimental to the animals' health.

Do not, for any reason, attempt to shoot or poison any form of wildlife that you encounter. A stray bullet can cause untold damage, not to mention being illegal. Poison can be eaten by family pets or small children. Keep the phone number to Animal Control in Austin handy, along with other emergency numbers. The safe removal of all wild animals is a job strictly for professionals.

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