New Jersey is home to a large number of different birds, mammals, reptiles, and creatures of all kinds. Thankfully, only a few of these wild animals cause trouble around homes. Bats, skunks, opossums, squirrels, birds, and raccoons are just a few examples of wildlife pests in our area. Here are some things you need to know about each of these problematic creatures.

Bats will enter into homes to find shelter in attic spaces which are problematic because bats spread disease. As bats defecate in your attic, dangerous sickness vectors release into the air which puts everyone in your house at risk. If bats stray from the attic and into your home there is a risk of contracting rabies from direct contact.

Skunks often seek shelter beneath porches, outbuildings, and build dens under and around homes. This, in and of itself, is not dangerous. It is, however, unpleasant for anyone within 3.5 miles. If you have ever smelled a skunk, you know what we are talking about. Skunks are not physically dangerous, but they are capable of spraying a pungent odor from their hind section that is extremely difficult to wash out.

Opossums are not dangerous or destructive wildlife pests. The worst they are capable of is digging through your trash and causing a general annoyance with their presence.

Squirrels may look cute, but they are terrors to handle. They will dig up gardens, destroy plant life, leave discarded nutshells throughout yards, steal from and sometimes destroy bird feeders, and just generally cause trouble. Squirrels are also known for invading attics to build their nests and store food.

Birds love nesting in and around homes which is problematic because birds carry and spread dangerous diseases and pathogens. If birds have nested in your attic, their fecal matter could get you and your family very sick. Birds also bring ticks and fleas into homes which are sometimes spread to household pets.

Raccoons are one of the most crafty and mischievous animals on the planet. At night raccoons will knock over and steal from trash cans leaving littered garbage across your yard for you to find in the morning. In addition to this, raccoons spread dangerous diseases such as hantavirus, roundworm, tuberculosis, and rabies.