Animal Pests Animal Pests Animal pests are a nuisance because they eat vegetables, chew books and posters, invade pantries and make a mess, keep people awake at night, and destroy houses. They upset the balance in the native bush by grazing ground plants, preying on native animals, competing for nests and other resources and promoting erosion. They can be controlled, but we need to 1. be careful to only catch the targetted pest 2. know how to dispose correctly of any live animals that are caught 3. use control methods that do not cause unintended damage to the environment 4. find a solution that is permanent and effective 5. be aware of laws which protect all native mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.
Mammals Generally live trapping is the best way to deal with any mammal pest.
Whatever is caught can then be dealt with in the appropriate way. Prevention of the entry of animals into the home is the best starting point. Barge boards, eaves, ridging and footings should be pest proof. Before they are killed or released their identification should be confirmed. If there is any difficulty identifying small mammals, BICA can provide assistance.