Otter Removal & Exclusion Services in Northeastern Indiana & Southern Michigan
Otters are clever, playful animals—but when they take over your pond, fish hatchery, or lakeshore property, they can cause serious damage. These semi-aquatic mammals are skilled hunters who can deplete fish populations, damage docks and landscaping, and dig dens under structures.
At Drake's Wildlife Services, we provide professional otter removal and exclusion services throughout Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan. Our licensed team understands otter behavior and uses humane, effective strategies to remove them and prevent future problems.
Protecting Your Waterfront Property from Otter Damage
Why Choose Our Otter Removal Services?
- Specialized Expertise: Otters require specific handling expertise. We're trained in their behavior, habitat, and removal techniques.
- Safe, Humane Practices: We never use harmful chemicals or illegal traps—only responsible, legal, and humane solutions.
- Customized Plans: Every property is unique. We tailor our removal and exclusion plans to your specific environment and needs.
- Long-Term Protection:
We don't just remove otters—we prevent their return through proactive exclusion and habitat modification.
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Common Problems Caused by Otters
While otters may appear cute, they can quickly become destructive:
Fish Loss
Otters can consume entire populations of koi, stocked trout, or pond fish overnight.
Damaged Landscaping
Otters dig into shorelines, burrow under foundations, and leave droppings on docks and decks.
Structural Damage
Their dens can compromise docks, seawalls, and other waterfront structures.
Health Risks
Otters may carry parasites and bacteria that contaminate water or threaten pets.
Our Otter Removal and Exclusion Process
1. Property Assessment
We start with a thorough inspection to identify otter entry points, feeding areas, and potential den sites near water features.
2. Custom Removal Strategy
Based on our assessment, we develop a removal and exclusion plan that considers the surrounding ecosystem and otter activity.
3. Humane Trapping and Relocation
- Live Traps: We use species-specific traps to safely capture and relocate otters according to state laws.
- Timing Matters: We time removals strategically, aiming to intervene before reproduction or extensive damage occurs.
- Safe Release: We relocate captured otters to suitable, approved habitats away from residential areas.
4. Exclusion and Habitat Management
- Secure Shorelines: We recommend and install deterrents, fencing, and shoreline reinforcements to prevent access.
- Protect Fish Stock: We provide guidance on fish protection strategies, including netting and pond redesigns.
- Remove Attractants:
We identify and eliminate food sources and nesting conditions that might attract otters.
Preventing Future Otter Problems
Preventing otter damage requires both awareness and action:
Protect Fish Ponds
Install mesh netting or overhead barriers to protect fish, especially at night.
Reinforce Shorelines
Maintain clean, reinforced shorelines to discourage den building.
Seal Crawl Spaces
Block otter access beneath docks, decks, and other structures.
Limit Food Availability
Keep fish feed and food scraps away from water features.
Great experience. Drake's Wildlife Services was quick with responses, honest and open about pricing, and once I asked to schedule an appointment they got me in within the same week. I was recommended to them by a friend and I would recommend them to anyone who asks.
Jamie
The guys from Drake's Wildlife Services came out evaluated, answered all my questions. Very helpful, polite, also courteous and respectful to my home. They were nice guys and easy to talk to and never talk down to you. Did a very good job. I would definitely call them back again if I have a problem, and would refer them to other people I know.
Samuel
Frequently Asked Questions About Otter Removal and Safety
Are otters dangerous to people or pets?
While otters are typically shy, they may become aggressive if cornered—especially when protecting young. They can also transmit parasites through feces or contaminate water sources.
Can otters live under my dock or deck?
Yes. Otters frequently den in secluded, low-clearance areas near water, including under docks, sheds, and crawl spaces.
Will otters come back after removal?
If food sources and access points remain, new otters may move in. That's why exclusion and habitat modification are essential.
Do you harm or euthanize otters?
No. We use humane live trapping and follow all federal and state wildlife laws for safe, responsible relocation.
How quickly can you remove otters?
Response times vary by season and otter behavior, but we provide prompt service and typically begin trapping within 24–48 hours of inspection.
Contact Us for Expert Otter Removal
Don't let otters damage your shoreline, pond, or fish population. Contact Drake's Wildlife Services for professional, humane otter removal and exclusion in Northeastern Indiana and Southern Michigan. We'll protect your property and restore your peace of mind—safely and legally.
Call 260-293-1223 or complete our online form to schedule an inspection.
