Living close to nature has its perks—beautiful scenery, fresh air, and a strong connection to the outdoors. But when wild animals make their way into your home or onto your property, they bring more than just noise and mess. They can also carry serious diseases that pose risks to you, your family, and your pets.
In the Kaw Valley region, wildlife is active year-round, especially in the warmer months. From raccoons and skunks to bats and squirrels, these animals often seek food and shelter in residential areas. While they may seem harmless, many of them are carriers of diseases that can spread through contact, droppings, urine, bites, or even the air.
Here are some of the most common wildlife-related diseases that every homeowner in Kaw Valley should be aware of.
Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It is primarily spread through bites from infected animals. Skunks, bats, raccoons, and foxes are common carriers in Kansas. While not every wild animal has rabies, any aggressive or unusually tame behavior should be treated as a red flag.
Leptospirosis
This bacterial disease is transmitted through the urine of infected animals, often contaminating soil or standing water. Raccoons, skunks, and rodents are typical carriers. Humans and pets can contract leptospirosis through contact with contaminated water or surfaces. Symptoms range from mild flu-like illness to serious complications like liver or kidney damage.
Histoplasmosis
This respiratory illness is caused by a fungus that thrives in bat and bird droppings, especially in enclosed areas like attics, barns, and old buildings. When droppings dry out, spores can become airborne and be inhaled. Histoplasmosis can lead to coughing, fever, and in severe cases, lung infection requiring medical treatment.
Roundworm (Baylisascaris)
Raccoons are the primary carriers of the roundworm Baylisascaris, which can be found in their feces. Accidental ingestion of microscopic eggs—through contaminated soil, hands, or surfaces—can lead to serious health problems, including organ and brain damage. Children are especially at risk due to their tendency to play outdoors and put their hands in their mouths.
Salmonella
Reptiles, rodents, and birds can carry Salmonella bacteria, which can spread through their droppings or by touching contaminated surfaces. If you have animals nesting in your vents, attics, or crawlspaces, the risk of Salmonella exposure increases, especially when droppings are disturbed or improperly cleaned.
Ticks and Fleas
While not diseases themselves, fleas and ticks carried by squirrels, raccoons, and other wildlife can transmit illnesses such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tapeworms. If wild animals nest in your home, they may also bring these parasites with them, putting your pets and family at risk.
Protecting Your Home and Family
Awareness is the first step in preventing exposure to wildlife-borne diseases. If you suspect animals are nesting in or around your home, it’s crucial not to approach or attempt removal on your own. Handling wildlife without the right equipment and knowledge increases your risk of injury or infection.
At Critter Control of Kaw Valley, we use humane, effective methods to identify, remove, and prevent wildlife infestations—keeping both people and animals safe. We also offer clean-up and decontamination services to reduce the risk of disease after animals have been removed.
If you hear noises in your attic, see signs of droppings, or suspect a wildlife problem, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your home healthy, safe, and critter-free.