Wildlife intrusions are more common than many Chicago homeowners realize. From raccoons nesting in attics to squirrels chewing wires and bats roosting in walls, these unwanted guests can quickly cause expensive damage. But how much does wildlife removal actually cost? And what factors influence the price?
In this blog, we’ll break down the key components that affect wildlife removal costs in Chicago, explain what you’re paying for, and help you understand what to expect when hiring a professional.
Why Wildlife Removal Isn’t One-Price-Fits-All
Unlike standard pest control, wildlife removal involves unpredictable variables: the type of animal, extent of infestation, and accessibility of the location all affect the time, tools, and expertise needed. In Chicago, prices typically range from $150 to $1,500+, depending on several important factors.
Let’s dive into the details.
1. Type of Wildlife Involved
Different animals present different challenges. For instance:
- Squirrel or raccoon removal may require roof access and entry point repairs.
- Bat removal demands specialized techniques, especially if bat colonies are involved.
- Rodent control usually requires sealing multiple small access points and long-term monitoring.
Here’s a rough price guide for common species:
- Squirrel removal: $250–$600
- Raccoon removal: $300–$700
- Bat removal: $400–$1,500
- Rodent removal: $150–$500
These are just estimates. A thorough inspection is the only way to determine exact costs.
2. Severity of Infestation
A single raccoon in your attic is a different challenge than a full squirrel family nesting and chewing through insulation. More animals mean more:
- Time to remove them safely
- Equipment used (traps, one-way doors, etc.)
- Cleanup of droppings, urine, and nests
Severe infestations also tend to increase the chance of property damage, leading to higher overall costs.
3. Location and Accessibility
The cost of wildlife removal also depends on where the animals are hiding:
- Accessible areas like sheds or garages are easier (and cheaper) to treat.
- Difficult locations such as inside walls, crawlspaces, or high attic rafters may require ladders, roof work, or drywall removal, increasing labor and equipment costs.
4. Repairs and Wildlife Proofing
After removal, it’s crucial to seal entry points and prevent re-entry. Many professional wildlife removal services offer these repairs as part of their package, including:
- Sealing holes or vents with metal mesh
- Replacing damaged insulation
- Installing chimney caps or vent covers
- Trimming branches near rooflines
Depending on the size and scope of the repairs, this can add $200 to $1,000 to the total cost—but it’s essential for long-term prevention.
5. Cleanup and Sanitation
Wildlife brings more than noise and mess—they leave behind droppings, urine, nesting debris, and parasites. In severe cases, this can pose serious health risks to your family.
Many professional wildlife control companies in Chicago offer decontamination and cleanup services that may include:
- Disinfecting the area
- Odor removal
- Replacing insulation
- Pest treatment for fleas, mites, or ticks
Expect cleanup services to add $150 to $600 or more, depending on attic size and contamination level.
6. Emergency Services
If you discover a raccoon in your chimney at midnight or a bat flying through your living room, emergency wildlife removal may be required. These services often carry a premium fee (e.g., 20%–50% more) due to after-hours response and urgency.
Still, acting quickly may reduce damage and prevent a full-blown infestation.
7. Licensed and Insured Professionals vs. DIY
While DIY wildlife removal may seem like a cost-saver, it often leads to:
- Incomplete removal
- Risk to personal safety
- Legal violations (especially with protected species like bats)
Hiring a licensed wildlife removal company ensures humane methods, regulatory compliance, and long-term solutions—often saving you money in the long run.
Get a Clear Estimate Before Work Begins
Every property and situation is unique. That’s why most wildlife control providers in Chicago offer on-site inspections and written estimates. During your inspection, you should receive:
- A full assessment of the infestation
- A breakdown of removal, repair, and cleanup costs
- A proposed timeline for removal and follow-up
Final Thoughts
Wildlife intrusions aren’t just annoying—they’re potentially hazardous and costly. Understanding the factors that affect pricing for wildlife removal in Chicago helps you make informed decisions and avoid surprise expenses.
Need professional help? Contact Chicago’s Green Trapper for a licensed, humane, and cost-effective wildlife removal service. We provide detailed estimates, emergency support, and full-service protection for your home or business.