Which of the following is a non-lethal method of wildlife control?

Non-lethal methods of wildlife control aim to manage wildlife populations and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts without causing harm or death to the animals. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of techniques that not only prevent animals from becoming a nuisance but also encourage coexistence with them in their natural habitat.

Exclusion involves implementing physical barriers or modifications to structures that prevent wildlife from entering certain areas, such as sealing entry points in buildings. Habitat modification can include altering the environment to make it less attractive or accessible to wildlife, such as removing food sources, water, or hiding spots. These approaches are beneficial because they address the underlying issues that lead to animal nuisance behaviors, thereby reducing encounters without harming the wildlife.

Practices like trapping and relocating, while they may seem non-lethal, can still lead to stress and mortality for the animals involved, impacting their ability to survive in unfamiliar territories. Poisoning and the use of firearms are clear lethal methods that do not fit within the non-lethal framework, as they result in the death of the wildlife. Therefore, choosing exclusion and habitat modification reflects a commitment to humane wildlife management that safeguards animal welfare while addressing human concerns.