Professional Wildlife Firm vs. Public Services- Who Should You Call?
When dealing with an animal issue, it can be confusing to know exactly who to contact. Depending on the type of animal and the nature of the situation, the right choice is either a private professional service or a public government agency.
Here is a quick guide to help you understand the differences and direct you to the right professionals for your specific needs.
What We Do- Michigan Wildlife Solutions
We are a private, for-hire nuisance wildlife control company. Our team specializes in resolving human-wildlife conflicts, specifically when wild animals have invaded your property. Because we are a private firm, we charge for our specialized services, which go far beyond what public agencies are equipped to handle.
Our Primary Focus
Targeted Wildlife Removal- Safely and effectively removing nuisance wildlife (such as bats, raccoons, squirrels, mice, and birds) from your property.
Damage Repair & Exclusion- Animals can cause significant structural damage. We not only remove the animals but also repair the damage they've caused and seal entry points to prevent future infestations.
Specialized Equipment- We utilize specialized tools, ladders, and safety gear specifically designed for accessing and securing difficult areas like attics, interior walls, roofs, and eaves.
When to Contact Public Services
Public services are tax-funded entities equipped to handle specific public safety and conservation issues. They generally do not handle nuisance wildlife removal from private residences, nor do they provide property repairs.
1. County Animal Control
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When to call- You are dealing with domestic animals.
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What they handle- Stray dogs, feral cats, aggressive domestic pets, or issues involving animal cruelty and neglect.
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Please note: Animal Control officers typically do not respond to calls about raccoons in the chimney or bats in the attic.
2. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
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When to call- You have found injured or orphaned wildlife.
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What they handle- The DNR oversees wildlife conservation. If you find a wild animal that is visibly injured, sick, or definitively orphaned, Michigan Wildlife Solutions cannot take them in. Instead, please consult the Michigan DNR website to find a licensed, local wildlife rehabilitator who is legally authorized and trained to care for these animals.
Quick Reference Guide For Wildlife Removal and Animal Control Services
Situation
Who to Call
Why?
Wildlife in attic, walls, or eaves
Wild animal causing property damage
Stray dog or feral cat
Injured or orphaned wild animal
Requires specialized tools, exclusion techniques, and property repair.
We provide professional trapping, removal, and structural repair.
Public agencies are responsible for domestic animal safety and welfare.
Licensed rehabilitators have the medical resources to care for sick/injured wildlife.
Quick Reference Guide For Wildlife Removal and Animal Control Services
Wildlife in attic, walls, or eaves
Who to Call- Michigan Wildlife Solutions
Why- Requires specialized tools, exclusion techniques, and property repair.
Wild animal causing property damage
Who to Call- Michigan Wildlife Solutions
Why- We provide professional trapping, removal, and structural repair.
Stray dog or feral cat
Who to Call- County Animal Control
Why- Public agencies are responsible for domestic animal safety and welfare.
Injured or orphaned wild animal
Who to Call- DNR / Local Rehabilitator
Why- Licensed rehabilitators have the medical resources to care for sick/injured wildlife.