Mastering Wildlife Control: Expert Tips & Unusual Skunk Behavior | Living the Wildlife Podcast

In this episode of the "Living the Wildlife" podcast, Stephen Vantassel, an experienced Wildlife Control Consultant, dives deep into the fascinating world of vertebrate pest control. The episode is rich with research-based insights specifically designed to help professionals in the field enhance their knowledge and skills.

Stephen begins the episode with a light-hearted but essential disclaimer, reminding listeners of the importance of adhering to all relevant laws—whether national, state, provincial, or local—when managing wildlife, particularly when using pesticides or other control methods. This reminder sets the stage for the thoughtful and responsible approach that characterizes the podcast.

He then transitions into a personal update, sharing a glimpse into his busy schedule. Recently, he’s been able to clear some time for new projects, though he acknowledges that new challenges seem to arise just as quickly. This personal touch not only makes the content relatable but also underscores the ever-evolving nature of work in wildlife control.

The "Living the Wildlife" podcast is known for its in-depth exploration of topics that often go unnoticed in the broader field of wildlife control. Stephen emphasizes the value of understanding these less obvious aspects, likening it to learning subjects in school that might not seem immediately relevant but prove invaluable later in life. This approach reflects his commitment to thorough, professional development—something that goes beyond the immediate task at hand and prepares professionals for future challenges.

Stephen encourages active engagement from his audience, inviting listeners to subscribe, leave comments, ask questions, and even offer constructive criticism. He is open to collaboration and extends an invitation to those who might be interested in being a guest on the show, encouraging them to reach out via email. This open dialogue creates a community feel and makes the podcast more interactive and engaging.

One particularly intriguing part of this episode involves an unusual observation of skunk behavior—grubbing in a straight line. Stephen discusses how this behavior is something he hadn’t encountered before, and he speculates on possible reasons, such as the presence of a utility line underground. He invites listeners to share their thoughts or similar experiences, turning a curious observation into a broader conversation within the community.

As the busy bat season approaches, Stephen also touches on the challenges that many wildlife control professionals are currently facing. He speaks candidly about his own experiences with feeling overwhelmed, which adds a layer of empathy and realism to the discussion. This part of the episode resonates particularly well with listeners who might be going through similar situations.

Overall, this episode of the "Living the Wildlife" podcast offers a blend of personal reflection, professional advice, and community engagement. It’s crafted to be not only informative but also supportive, making it a must-listen for anyone involved in wildlife control.

To stay connected with Stephen M. Vantassel, CWCP, ACE, and to explore more resources, you can visit his blog at wildlifecontrolconsultant.com. His academic papers are available at kingsdivinity.academia.edu/StephenMVantassel, and you can watch more videos on his YouTube channel. For more podcasts, you can head over to pestgeekpodcast.com/stephen-vantassel/. If you need to reach him directly, he’s available at 406-272-5323 during Mountain Time.

Stephen is dedicated to helping people resolve conflicts with wildlife through teaching, training, writing, and research, and he remains committed to providing valuable, ethical guidance in all aspects of wildlife control.

Remember, it’s crucial to always follow national, state, provincial, and local laws when using pesticides or other control methods to manage pests. Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC, Pest Geek Podcast, Living the Wildlife Podcast, Stephen M. Vantassel, or their affiliates are not responsible for how the information provided is used. Always read and follow the label directions for any product you use to ensure safety and compliance.