NWCO - Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Common Mammal Control Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client reports a raccoon is consistently accessing their roof by climbing a downspout to enter an uncapped chimney.
Where is the most effective and efficient placement for a single live-capture cage trap?

Accepted Answer

Directly on the roof, as a positive set over the chimney flue.

Answer

In the middle of the yard, heavily baited with sweet food.

Answer

On the ground at the base of the downspout.

Answer

Inside the fireplace on the ground floor.

Question 2

A NWCO is hired for a squirrel removal and exclusion project in a residential attic in early April. What critical biological factor must be considered before sealing any entry points?

Accepted Answer

The presence of a first litter of helpless, dependent young.

Answer

The squirrels are likely entering their brief hibernation period.

Answer

It is the peak of the second mating season of the year.

Answer

Adult squirrels will be difficult to trap due to food scarcity.

Question 3

A client reports hearing "chattering, scampering, and the sound of nuts rolling" coming from their attic, primarily during the daytime and especially in the early morning. Which of the following mammals is the most likely culprit?

Accepted Answer

Gray squirrels

Answer

Norway rats

Answer

Little brown bats

Answer

An opossum

Question 4

After removing a groundhog from under a shed, a NWCO installs a heavy-gauge wire mesh barrier around the structure's base to prevent re-entry. To be most effective against future digging, how should the bottom edge of this mesh be configured?

Accepted Answer

Bent at a 90-degree angle to form an "L" shape extending outward from the structure.

Answer

Buried 2 feet straight down into the soil.

Answer

Left at ground level and secured with landscape staples.

Answer

Bent at a 45-degree angle inward under the shed.

Question 5

When cleaning a designated raccoon latrine, a NWCO must wear appropriate PPE, including a respirator, to prevent the accidental inhalation or ingestion of microscopic eggs from a parasite known to cause severe neurological damage in humans. What is this parasite?

Accepted Answer

Baylisascaris procyonis (Raccoon Roundworm)

Answer

Giardia lamblia

Answer

Hantavirus

Answer

Sarcoptes scabiei (Mange mite)

Question 6

Which of the following describes a "positive set" in the context of trapping a nuisance mammal?

Accepted Answer

Placing a trap directly over a den opening, forcing the animal to enter upon exit.

Answer

A trap that is guaranteed to catch an animal within 24 hours.

Answer

Using a highly attractive bait that the target animal cannot resist.

Answer

A set that uses both a visual lure and a scented bait simultaneously.