Chapter 1: Unraveling Odor Mysteries: Strategies for Finding and Resolving Wildlife-Related Odors Welcome to another episode of "Living the Wildlife," the podcast series hosted by Stephen van Tasser, a Wildlife Control consultant. In this blog post, we will delve into the first part of Stephen's transcription, where he discusses the challenges of identifying and eliminating odors associated with wildlife. As wildlife control professionals, it is crucial to understand how to locate and address these odors to effectively assist our clients. So, let's dive in and explore some strategies for finding and resolving these mysterious odors. Chapter 2: Types of Odors In this chapter, we will explore the different types of odors that wildlife control professionals encounter. While this list may not be exhaustive, it provides a starting point for understanding the various sources of odors and the implications they have for odor detection. Food Odors:Stephen shares an anecdote about a unique food odor he encountered during a job. He highlights the importance of considering food as a potential source of odors, such as when food falls between appliances or remains unnoticed in microwaves or refrigerators. Dead Animal Odors:Dead animal smells are distinct and often unforgettable. Stephen emphasizes the significance of recognizing and identifying the scent of decaying animals, as it can help narrow down the search for the source of the odor. Urine Odors:Urine odors, often associated with restrooms or uncleaned areas, can also be relevant in wildlife control. Stephen discusses how recognizing the distinct smell of urine can assist in locating areas affected by animal activity, such as those frequented by cats or rodents. Mold Odors:Stephen points out that not all odors are animal-related. Mold and water issues can sometimes be mistaken for wildlife-related odors. By being aware of the possibility of mold, wildlife control professionals can guide clients towards addressing the actual problem effectively. Skunk Odors:Skunk related odors are a common challenge in wildlife control. Stephen shares his experiences with the potent smell of skunk and explains how it can permeate through foundations, making it crucial to consider skunks as potential odor sources. Living Animal Odors:Certain living animals, such as bats, mice, and raccoons, can also emit distinct odors. Recognizing these smells can aid in identifying the presence of these animals, especially in situations where they remain in an area for an extended period. Chapter 3: Interviewing the Client To effectively address odor issues, Stephen emphasizes the importance of conducting a thorough interview with the client. In this chapter, we delve into the key questions to ask and factors to consider when gathering information from the client. Identifying the Strongest Odor Location:Determining where the client smells the odor most strongly is crucial for narrowing down potential sources. Stephen advises asking clients about specific areas within the house, such as bedrooms, basements, bathrooms, or upper floors, where the odor is most prominent. Timing and Frequency of Odor Occurrence:Understanding when the odor is noticeable to the client can provide valuable clues. Stephen suggests asking clients if the odor is constant or if it occurs during specific events, such as when the furnace turns on or when entering certain rooms. Client Activities and Pest Control Measures:Inquiring about the client's recent activities and pest control measures can help uncover potential causes of the odor. Stephen discusses scenarios where the use of rodenticides or other control methods might result in the presence of dead animals, highlighting the importance of considering such factors. Sensitivity to Odors:Odor perception is subjective, varying from person to person. Stephen advises wildlife control professionals to understand the client's sensitivity to odors and h...