Rural and urban residents are often bothered by wildlife problems such as squirrels, raccoons, snakes and white-tailed deer. This is especially true in Pike County, where many new residents are moving from urban areas to the country. Gary San Julian, Extension Wildlife Specialist, presented Guess Who is Coming to Dinner on July 19 at the Pike County Conservation District. Approximately 15 people were provided information on the large variety of wildlife problems around the home and farm while being provided solutions to deal with the wildlife. Gary focused on the positive and negative attributes of wildlife and assisted people with their fear of wildlife such as bats, snakes and mice.

From a population of 500,000 in the early 1890’s, white-tail deer have increased to about 15 million across the country. In Pennsylvania and Pike County, the increasing deer numbers have caused significant damage to ornamental plants, gardens and commercial crops, as well as an increasing number of deer and automobile collisions. The best approach to control deer damage is an integrated pest management plan, which includes a combination of fencing, repellants, vegetation management and population control.

A program, Deer Resistant Landscaping and Other Deer Management Options was presented on May 10 at the Blooming Grove Fire Hall, which discussed deer options such as repellants, fencing, scare devices and deer resistant plants. Approximately 80 people attended the program, which was presented by Extension Wildlife Specialist Gary San Julian and Horticulture Extension Agent Linda Wiles.