Landscaping to Avoid Wildlife Conflicts

Authors

Date of this Version

January 2002

Comments

Published by United States Department of Agriculture • Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Permission to use.

Abstract

Wild animals contribute to our enjoyment of nature, and many species add aesthetic value to urban and suburban environments. Landscapes are frequently developed to be “environmentally friendly” by providing food and cover for songbirds, waterfowl, squirrels, and other wildlife. Wild animals can, however, damage property or threaten human health and safety. The presence of undesirable species or animal overpopulation often leads to many common wildlife problems associated with urban landscapes. Equipped with the right information, landscape designers can significantly reduce the potential for wildlife–human conflicts and their resulting impacts on economic interests and public safety.