Rapid Response Playbook: Wildlife Incidents During Guest Stays

Why Vacation Rentals Face Wildlife Risks

Sarasota and Manatee counties are popular destinations for short-term rentals, from beach cottages to luxury homes. But with Florida’s abundant wildlife, unexpected encounters can happen—especially during peak seasons. Raccoons raiding trash, squirrels in attics, or bats in older homes can quickly turn a five-star stay into a nightmare.

The Impact on Hosts

Wildlife issues during a guest stay can lead to:

· Negative reviews that hurt your listing.

· Emergency calls and disrupted vacations.

· Property damage and health risks from droppings or bites.

 

Rapid Response Steps

1. Stay Calm and Communicate

 Respond quickly to guest concerns.

 Assure them you have a professional solution in place.

2. Secure the Area

 Keep guests away from the affected space (attic, crawlspace, or outdoor trash area).

 Remove exposed food sources immediately.

3. Call a Wildlife Professional

Contact Nuisance Wildlife Removal at 941-729-2103 for emergency service.

We provide same-day response for vacation rental incidents.

4. Document the Incident

 Take photos for your records and insurance.

 Note entry points and damage for repair planning.

5. Prevent Future Issues

 Schedule a full inspection after the guest departs.

 Install wildlife-proof trash bins and seal entry points.

 

Proactive Measures for Hosts

· Pre-Season Inspections: Identify vulnerabilities before peak rental periods.

· Guest Guidelines: Include simple rules like “Don’t leave food outside” in your welcome book.

· Trash Management: Use locking lids and schedule timely pickups.

 

Your Wildlife Emergency Partner

At Nuisance Wildlife Removal, we understand the urgency of protecting your property and your reputation. Our team specializes in fast, humane removal and long-term prevention for vacation rentals.

Call us at 941-729-2103 for immediate assistance and keep your guests safe and happy.