Wildlife Removal · Vero Beach, FL
Wildlife Removal in Vero Beach, FL
Some of my most memorable calls in Vero Beach involved animals, not insects. A raccoon family in a chimney. An iguana sunning itself on a dock like it paid the mortgage. Wildlife work takes patience and a good understanding of Florida rules.
- Same day service option
- Free inspection request
- Vero Beach · Indian River County
Quick answer
Wildlife removal in Vero Beach means getting the animal out, sealing the way it got in, and following Florida law. Raccoons, green iguanas, armadillos, snakes and squirrels are the usual suspects. Vero Beach Pest Control connects you with a local technician who inspects your property and explains the options for your situation.
Florida Rules Matter
Wildlife work is different from insect work because laws protect many animals. UF/IFAS explains that Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Rule 68A 9.010 requires that animals captured as a nuisance be either humanely killed or released on the same property where they were caught. That rule exists to stop the spread of disease and ecological problems. In plain terms, a nuisance raccoon cannot be dropped off at a park across town.
Green iguanas are different. UF/IFAS notes they are not native to Florida and are not protected here except by anticruelty laws. Florida law also requires that animal traps be checked at least once every 24 hours.
Green Iguanas Along the Lagoon
Green iguanas are a growing headache along the Indian River Lagoon. UF/IFAS describes them as large lizards that bask on sidewalks, docks, seawalls, landscape timbers and open lawns. Adults feed on leaves, flowers and fruit.
Here is why homeowners call for iguana removal:
- Seawall damage: UF/IFAS warns that iguana burrows next to seawalls can lead to erosion and eventual collapse of the wall.
- Burrows under walks and foundations: Their digging can undermine sidewalks and slabs.
- Garden damage: They eat hibiscus, orchids and many other flowers, plus fruit like mangos, figs and bananas.
- Droppings: Piles on docks and pool decks cause odor and can carry salmonella, according to UF/IFAS.
- Bites and scratches: Adults have sharp claws and a strong tail. Leave handling to a pro.
UF/IFAS also notes cold weather limits how far north iguanas can live. Cold snaps can stun them, and they may fall from trees.
Raccoon Removal
Raccoons are smart and strong. UF/IFAS reports they are a major carrier of rabies in Florida. They also learn fast that an uncapped chimney makes a fine den. Raccoons tip over trash, raid pet food and tear into attics through soffits and roof vents.
Never feed raccoons or try to handle one. If a raccoon acts sick or aggressive, keep away and call for help.
Armadillos
If your lawn looks like someone dug small holes all over it overnight, an armadillo may be to blame. UF/IFAS says more than 90 percent of an armadillo's diet is insects and larvae in the soil. They are most active at night. UF/IFAS also notes there are no repellents or toxicants registered for armadillos, and that treating the lawn with insecticide has not been proven to stop the digging.
UF/IFAS describes armadillo holes as about 1 to 2 inches wide and up to 6 inches deep. Live trapping and fencing are the main tools.
Snakes
Most snakes in Florida are harmless and even helpful, since they eat rodents. UF/IFAS points out that snakes come into yards looking for shade and food like toads and mice. A few species are venomous, so if you are not sure what you are looking at, keep your distance and let a pro identify it.
What Your Technician Will Do
- Inspect and identify
Your technician confirms which animal is present and finds entry points, burrows and damage.
- Plan the removal
The plan follows Florida rules for that animal. For raccoons, squirrels and other native wildlife, that usually means one way doors or trapping as allowed. For iguanas, it may mean trapping and exclusion.
- Seal entry points
Chimney caps, vent screens, soffit repairs and hardware cloth keep animals from coming back.
- Address the attractants
Removing food sources, trimming plants and fixing yard features reduce the chance of a repeat visit.
- Follow up
A follow up visit confirms the animal is gone and the seals are holding.
Prevention Tips
- Cap chimneys and repair torn vent screens.
- Bring pet food in at night.
- Use trash cans with locking lids.
- Protect valuable plants with cages or screens, which UF/IFAS suggests for iguanas.
- Fill old burrows near seawalls and slabs after the animal is gone.
- Trim branches away from the roof.
Wildlife Removal Questions
Can I relocate a raccoon myself?
No. UF/IFAS explains that Florida rules require nuisance animals to be released on the same property or humanely killed.
Are iguanas protected in Florida?
UF/IFAS notes iguanas are not native and are not protected, except by anticruelty laws.
Why is an armadillo digging up my lawn?
It is looking for grubs and other insects in the soil. UF/IFAS says insects make up more than 90 percent of its diet.
Do all bats carry rabies?
No, UF/IFAS notes not all bats carry rabies. Still, never handle a bat, and get advice if one is found in a living space.
How long does wildlife removal take?
It depends on the animal and the number of entry points. Most jobs take a few visits.
Same day service option
Get Wildlife Removal in Vero Beach
Wildlife problems usually get worse with time. Send the short form, and a local technician will reach out to set up a visit.
More services
Other pest control services in Vero Beach, FL
Termite Control
Drywood, Formosan and native subterranean termite inspections and treatment plans.
Rodent Control
Roof rat and mouse inspections, trapping and exclusion that seals the gaps.
Roach Control
Palmetto bug and German cockroach plans built on baits, sealing and follow up.
Bed Bug Treatment
Careful bed bug inspections and treatment plans for homes, condos and rentals.
Mosquito Control
Yard mosquito programs that cut breeding sites and treat resting areas.
Ant Control
Baiting plans for carpenter, fire, ghost and white footed ants that reach the colony.
Lawn Pest Control
Chinch bug, sod webworm and grub programs built on UF/IFAS lawn care.
Sources
- UF/IFAS Extension: Solutions to common wildlife problems
- UF/IFAS Extension: Green iguana
- UF/IFAS Extension: Iguanas and other lizards in the landscape
- UF/IFAS Extension: Identifying wildlife damage
- U.S. EPA: Introduction to Integrated Pest Management