We gardeners love all of Nature and all of the lovely creatures that our gardens attract—well, maybe not all. Rabbits, deer, raccoons, moles, voles, chipmunks, squirrels all can be as much as a nuisance as a joy.

That’s why the University of Illinois Extension has launched a new website “Living with Wildlife in Illinois."

According to the Extension’s press release, “This website provides residents of Illinois with information about how to coexist with Illinois’ wildlife, especially in areas where humans and wildlife may have conflict. Many species of wildlife are welcome visitors, but some animals may wear out their welcome. Urban wildlife helps maintain a connection with nature, but sometimes it can end up in places that are not safe for them or for people and pets with whom they come in contact.”

The website gives information to gardeners and homeowners under the assumption that preventing problems with wildlife is much simpler and less aggravating than dealing with the problems after they occur.

The website offers information on seasonal behaviors of wildlife, ways to prevent problems, solve problems and more. It even helps you to identify the animal causing the problem as well as a Directory of Illinois Wildlife so you can learn more about that critter.

— Michelle Byrne Walsh