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I was a professional animal damage controller. If you are having problems with squirrels, raccoons, beavers, moles, voles, etc. damaging your property, I can help give you information to resolve that damage. I was an assistant editor for Wildlife Control Technology magazine and have published numerous articles as well as two books in this field.

Experience in the area

Former assistant editor for Wildlife Control Technology; Master's degree in Hebrew Bible (yes I am licensed minister), Past New England Director for the National Wildlife Control Operator's Association. I have published two books, The Wildlife Removal Handbook (rev. ed) and the Wildlife Damage Inspection Handbook, and numerous articles. Perhaps a highlight was making the cover of Wildlife Control Technology. I have debated a noted animal rights activist in my own state of Massachusetts on radio and TV. http://icwdm.org

What do you like about this subject?

I enjoy the subject of animal damage control because I enjoy wildlife. Learning how to stop and limit wildlife damage helps maintain the natural balance and continues to help people see animals as majestic creatures rather than a pest. When we fail to properly manage wildlife, imbalance sets in which can result in death, and environmental loss.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I am always learning about new techniques for species I am already familiar with. For example, I have learned how to use one way doors and beaver flood control pipes. I also enjoy learning about species that are not native to New England. I hope one day to catch a coyote and a pocket gopher.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

American's are always looking for a magic technique to resolve their wildlife damage problems. People always ask if there is something they can spray. The answer is, 95% of the time no. And for the other five percent, the results of spraying will only reduce the damage not eliminate it. I wish people would stop thinking that trapping isn't a solution. Trapping is an effective solution.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

What I would like the world to know is that animal rights groups really don't provide the public with all the facts regarding wildlife control and management. They frequently show inflammatory pictures and statistics that are simply out of context. One thing for people to think about is, is how come animal rights groups don't get into the business of solving problems if they know so much?


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UserDateKCPComments
Sean01/25/12101010 
Lynn Thomas01/05/12101010There are no extensions of any kind .....
Maralin10/18/11 
Lauren10/09/11101010 
Carol09/28/111010Many thanks for referral to the NEB .....

Recent Answers from Stephen Vantassel

2012-02-06 red squirrels:

Sounds like you have a company that has a clue. Yes, red squirrels can enter structures at ground level.     Where the animal goes from there depends. Just like people, you should be careful of too much

2012-01-25 Rodent soiled insulation replacement question:

Well you still have to provide more information not for me but for yourself.     Are you replacing the insulation because it has lost its insulation value? For disease concerns? if so which diseases are

2012-01-25 Tricky Rat:

Don't waste your time with repellents unless you have lots of money to throw away.   Don't know how you know it is the "same" rat or that it hasn't come in from elsewhere. Sounds to me like you need a

2012-01-24 Rodent soiled insulation replacement question:

I think this is a tough question. It's relative. You didn't say what kind of rodents, it does make a difference. Is it deer mice with the threat of Hantavirus? or house mice or both, or rats? If rats,

2012-01-05 Mice Holes:

How did the exterminator inspect? Did he use a ladder, black light, non-toxic tracking powder? Go into the attic? If not, then that is why nothing was found. Do you have a garage door? How well is it sealed?

 

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