Frequently Asked Questions

Do wildlife control operators in Indiana need to be licensed or registered?

Yes. Indiana law (IC 14-22-38) requires anyone providing nuisance wildlife control services for compensation to be registered with the Indiana DNR Fish & Wildlife Division. This registration ensures operators understand legal trapping methods, animal handling requirements, and state regulations. Always ask to verify an operator's DNR registration before hiring.

What is the difference between a nuisance wildlife control operator and a pest control company?

Pest control companies primarily handle insects, rodents, and structural pests using pesticides and baits under an Indiana Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) applicator license. Nuisance wildlife control operators are registered with the Indiana DNR and focus on wild vertebrates — raccoons, bats, skunks, groundhogs, beavers, and similar animals — using trapping, exclusion, and relocation. Many operators are registered for both, but it is worth confirming the operator handles your specific problem.

Can I remove nuisance wildlife from my own property myself?

Indiana residents may trap certain nuisance animals on their own property without a permit, but rules vary by species. Protected species — including Indiana bats (federally endangered), river otters, and bobcats — require a DNR depredation permit before any control action. Relocating wildlife across property lines requires landowner permission. For safety reasons, bat exclusion, skunk removal, and any situation involving a potentially rabid animal should always be handled by a registered operator.

Why can't I have bats removed in the summer?

Indiana bat exclusion is prohibited from May 1 through August 15. During this period, bat pups are born and are flightless — sealing entry points during this time would trap and kill them inside the structure, which is illegal. Exclusion work must be done after August 15 (when pups can fly) or completed before May 1. Licensed operators know these seasonal restrictions and will not perform exclusion during the prohibited period.

What happens to animals after they are trapped?

The operator makes the decision based on species, condition, and local regulations. Some animals are relocated to suitable habitat on property where the landowner has given permission. Others are euthanized, particularly when relocation is impractical, the animal is sick or injured, or local ordinances prohibit relocation. Ask your operator about their approach before hiring if this matters to you.

How much does nuisance wildlife control cost?

Costs vary widely depending on the species, severity of the situation, number of trapping visits, exclusion work needed, and the operator. Typical ranges in Indiana: simple trapping visits $75–$150 per visit; bat exclusion $500–$2,000+ depending on home size and number of entry points; groundhog or raccoon removal $150–$400; beaver dam removal $300–$1,000+. Get at least two estimates for any significant job.

Can a wildlife control operator remove a skunk without it spraying?

Experienced operators use covered traps, careful approaches, and specialized equipment that significantly reduces the chance of a skunk spraying. It is not guaranteed — but professional operators have far better success rates than untrained homeowners. This is one of the strongest reasons to hire a professional for skunk removal rather than attempting it yourself.

What should I do if I find a bat inside my home?

Do not release it outside immediately if anyone may have been exposed while sleeping. The CDC and Indiana State Department of Health recommend testing for rabies if the bat was in a room with a sleeping person, unattended child, or intoxicated person — people who might not have noticed a bite. Capture the bat in a box or coffee can without touching it with bare hands and contact your local health department. For bat colonies in your attic (not a single bat that flew in), call a licensed operator.

Are wildlife control operators covered by insurance?

Reputable operators carry general liability insurance. Always ask for proof of insurance before work begins, especially for jobs involving roof access, structural repairs, or work near HVAC systems. DNR registration does not include insurance verification, so this is a separate step you should take.

Does IN Wildlife Control employ or endorse any operators?

No. IN Wildlife Control is a free public directory of operators registered with the Indiana DNR. We do not employ operators, take commissions, or endorse any specific business. Operators set their own fees, handle their own scheduling, and make their own decisions about services. We encourage you to compare multiple operators and read reviews before hiring.