Introduction
Beavers can be a real nuisance, chewing down trees, building dams that flood your property, and even causing structural damage to your home. But before you reach for the gun, there are a few more humane ways to get rid of beavers that you should consider.
We’ll cover everything you need to know about how to get rid of beavers, including:
- The best time of year to remove beavers
- Humane beaver removal methods
- How to prevent beavers from coming back
So, if you’re ready to say goodbye to beavers for good, read on!
Source wildlifehumane.org
When is the Best Time to Remove Beavers?
The best time to remove beavers is in the late summer or early fall, after the kits (baby beavers) are weaned but before they become too independent. This is because the kits are less likely to survive on their own if they are separated from their parents.
Humane Beaver Removal Methods
There are a number of humane ways to remove beavers from your property, including:
1. Live Trapping
Live trapping is the most effective way to remove beavers from your property. Live traps are baited with food, which attracts the beavers into the trap. Once the beaver is inside the trap, it is released into a more suitable habitat.
2. Exclusion Fencing
Exclusion fencing is a physical barrier that prevents beavers from entering your property. Exclusion fencing is typically made of wire mesh or metal panels.
3. Repellents
There are a number of repellents that can be used to deter beavers from your property. Repellents can be applied to trees, shrubs, and other vegetation that beavers are likely to eat.
4. Habitat Modification
Habitat modification can make your property less attractive to beavers. This can include removing trees and shrubs that beavers are likely to use for food and shelter, and filling in any dams that they have built.
How to Prevent Beavers from Coming Back
Once you have removed beavers from your property, it is important to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are a few tips:
- Remove any food sources that might attract beavers, such as trees and shrubs.
- Fill in any dams that beavers have built.
- Install exclusion fencing around your property.
- Contact a professional wildlife removal company if you are having trouble getting rid of beavers on your own.
Comparison Table: Humane Beaver Removal Methods
| Method | Effectiveness | Cost | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Trapping | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Exclusion Fencing | High | High | Low |
| Repellents | Low | Low | High |
| Habitat Modification | Moderate | Low | Low |
Conclusion
Getting rid of beavers can be a challenge, but it is possible to do it humanely. By following the tips in this article, you can get rid of beavers from your property and prevent them from coming back.
If you are having trouble getting rid of beavers on your own, contact a professional wildlife removal company. They will be able to safely and effectively remove the beavers from your property and help you prevent them from coming back.
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FAQ about How to Get Rid of Beavers
1. How do I identify beaver damage?
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Problem: Flooded yards, chewed trees, or dams blocking waterways.
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Answer: Beavers are active at night and leave behind characteristic signs like gnawed bark and cone-shaped huts in the water.
2. Can beavers be trapped and relocated?
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Problem: Beavers can cause damage to property and pose a hazard to humans.
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Answer: Trapping and relocation can be effective, but it requires a permit and professional assistance.
3. How do I deter beavers from building dams?
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Problem: Beavers flood yards and block waterways by building dams.
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Answer: Install beaver deceivers or use fencing to create barriers, making the area less attractive for dam building.
4. Can I shoot beavers?
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Problem: Beavers can be a nuisance but may also be protected by law.
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Answer: Shooting beavers is illegal in many areas and should only be considered as a last resort with proper permits.
5. How do I remove beaver dams?
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Problem: Beaver dams can block waterways and cause flooding.
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Answer: Manually remove the dam with tools or hire professionals to use heavy equipment to safely remove it.
6. Can I live trap beavers?
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Problem: Beavers can be captured and released in a different location.
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Answer: Live trapping requires a permit and specialized knowledge to avoid injuring the beaver.
7. How do I prevent future beaver damage?
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Problem: Beavers can return after being removed.
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Answer: Secure potential entry points, remove food sources, and use deterrents like castor oil or ultrasonic devices.
8. Are there natural methods to deter beavers?
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Problem: Beavers can be deterred without harming them.
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Answer: Use visual deterrents like flashing lights or noisemakers, or plant unpalatable vegetation around the area.
9. What are the legal implications of beaver removal?
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Problem: Beaver removal may be regulated by laws.
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Answer: Check with local authorities for regulations and permits required for beaver removal methods.
10. Can I bait beavers to trap them?
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Problem: Using bait to trap beavers may be effective.
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Answer: Baiting beavers with food or scents can lure them into traps, but it may also attract other animals.
