The Dangers Of DIY Pest Control: Springfield, VA Experts Share Their Insights

Jun 21, 2025

Do you have squirrels and raccoons running amok all over your home? Don’t try to tackle them yourself; get a pro to do it for you. Here’s what Springfield, VA experts recommend.

Wild animals belong in the wild. They definitely have no place in your garden, and they certainly shouldn’t be allowed to tear up your home. But there’s a lot more to getting rid of them humanely than meets the eye, which is why pest control experts like Connor’s Pest Pros say that it’s better to get a professional on the job.

Why DIY Wildlife Removal is a Bad Idea

If wild animals have been giving you headaches, you’re not the only one. Infestations by wildlife, such as raccoons, squirrels, or bats, are common in Northern Virginia. Even so, many experts advise homeowners and business owners against attempting to trap the animals on their own. 

Some of the biggest reasons for this are safety and legal concerns. Proper removal requires understanding of the pest animal’s behavior and safe handling practices, and untrained individuals risk injury to themselves, harm to the animal, and potential legal ramifications if local wildlife laws are violated. For example, it’s illegal to trap and relocate wildlife without specific licenses anywhere in Virginia, so if you’re caught, you’ll be in a lot of trouble.

Additionally, many animals are vectors for diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets, especially if the individual attempting to remove them lacks protective gear. 

You may save money initially by trying to take matters into your own hands, but if your methods don’t even work and you end up with an injury, infectious disease, or a lawsuit, it’s really not worth it.

What a Pro Can Do

On the other hand, licensed wildlife removers, such as the ones at Connor’s Pest Pros, are trained to trap wild animals and remove them from properties safely and humanely. So if you’re struggling with wild animals of any kind, it’s best to just call a professional.

But what do pest control services look like? Well, most will involve an inspection of the property to identify any attractants. Once your technician has conveyed this information to you, they will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to the infestation and property - this includes sealing entry points, removing food sources, and setting traps in strategic locations. 

A really conscientious company will also have its technicians return periodically to check the traps and transport any captured animals to habitats far away from the property, reducing the risk of a recurrent infestation.

Services Beyond Pest Control

If you really want a good bang for your buck, look for a company that offers professional repair services for any damage caused by wildlife activity - there’s bound to be a lot of that on your property if you’ve been struggling with an infestation. 

Many companies will fix insulation, holes, and structural damage; they can also clean droppings and sanitize the affected area to ensure it is free from harmful pathogens. 

Here’s another tip: hire a pro that offers a satisfaction guarantee with all of their services. That way, if you experience a new infestation or are otherwise unsatisfied with the work, you can call them back for remedial treatments. 

If you’re interested in learning more about pest control, Connor’s Pest Pros has more information on what you can do to protect your property - and when it’s time to call the pros.

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