Nature and Wildlife Solutions

We specialize in resolving human-wildlife conflicts, restoring land and plants to native species, and providing expert equipment repair and land management services. Additionally, we offer skilled restoration of cherished taxidermy mounts. These are just a few of the many services we provide.

Protect your home and property with expert wildlife identification and humane removal solutions.
Learn more about each animal and how we can help by exploring the wildlife pages below.

Rats vs Mice: How to Tell the Difference (Size, Behavior and Signs)

Rats and mice are among the most common household pests, but knowing which one you’re dealing with is essential for effective control. Although they’re both rodents, rats and mice differ significantly in size, behavior, and signs left behind. This quick guide from...

Rabbit, Groundhog, or Deer Damage? How to Identify Which Animal Is Responsible

If your plants, trees, or garden beds are mysteriously damaged, you might be dealing with rabbits, groundhogs, or deer. Each of these animals leaves behind unique signs that can help you figure out which one is responsible. This guide from Nature and Wildlife...

Chipmunk vs Mouse vs Rat: How to Tell the Difference

If you've spotted a small rodent scurrying across your yard or home and you're unsure whether it's a chipmunk, mouse, or rat, you're not alone. These critters can look similar at a glance, but their differences are clear when you know what to look for. This guide...

Live Trapping Wildlife: How Far Should You Release Animals?

At Nature and Wildlife Solutions, we often get asked: “How far should I release live-trapped wildlife?” The answer depends on the species, their natural behavior, and the habitat. Releasing animals at appropriate distances helps reduce stress, prevent immediate...

Voles vs. Mice: How to Tell the Difference

At Nature and Wildlife Solutions, we often hear from homeowners unsure if they’re dealing with voles or mice. While these two small rodents may look similar at first glance, they have some key differences in appearance, behavior, and habitat. Understanding these...

How do minerals get to the leaves of the plants?

The minerals that trees and plants transport to their leaves primarily come from the soil. Here's how the process works: Soil Composition – Minerals like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and others exist in the soil in...

Visual aids of Whitetail lymphatic systems for CWD testing

Understanding the lymphatic system of deer, particularly the location of lymph nodes, is crucial for wildlife management and disease monitoring, such as testing for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Visual aids can significantly enhance this understanding. Here are some...

What determines the gender of a fawn?

The gender of a fawn (whether male or female) is determined by the genetic material inherited from its parents, specifically the chromosomes. Female deer (does) have two X chromosomes (XX), while male deer (bucks) have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). The key factor...
White tail buck

Featured Wildlife: Deer

soon to come field dressing

CWD testing made easy with this free app!

What is CWD?

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a fatal neurological condition that affects deer, elk, and other cervids. Testing for CWD is crucial to monitor and manage its spread within deer populations. Hunters are encouraged to have their harvested deer tested, particularly in regions where CWD has been detected. The testing process typically involves submitting a sample of the deer’s brain tissue to a wildlife agency or lab for analysis. Early detection helps protect the health of local deer populations and prevents further transmission of the disease.

First and foremost when hunting deer:

Know before you go!!

Hunting, much like having a driver’s license, is not a right—it’s a privilege. While we all pay taxes to maintain roads, that doesn’t mean we own them or can use them however we like. Roads are shared by everyone and come with rules to ensure safety and fairness.

Similarly, hunting is made possible through funding from taxes and fees that benefit all of us. To ensure hunting remains safe and fair for everyone, guidelines and regulations must be followed. It’s the responsibility of every hunter to learn and understand these rules before purchasing a tag.

Why am I getting a ticket? If you didn’t intentionally violate the wildlife code, it’s likely because you didn’t take the time to study it. Ignorance of the rules isn’t an excuse, and it can result in a fine.

Please take the time to review the regulations. They exist to make hunting a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for everyone—yourself, your family, and your friends.

Be safe, and enjoy all that Missouri’s great outdoors have to offer!

Get the 2024 MDC Deer Regulations. 

About the author

Jerry Pemberton

Jerry Pemberton is a renowned trapper and wildlife specialist based in rural Missouri, with over three decades of dedicated experience in wildlife management and conservation. Born and raised in Missouri, Jerry’s deep connection to the natural world began at a young age, fostering a lifelong passion for wildlife and trapping.

Jerry’s expertise in trapping spans a broad range of techniques and species, with a particular focus on humane and sustainable practices. He is well-versed in the intricacies of trapping and the removal of both common and elusive animals, including deer, coyotes, raccoons, and beavers. His knowledge extends beyond practical trapping skills to include a deep understanding of local wildlife behavior, habitat management, and ecosystem balance.

Throughout his career, Jerry has been actively involved in educational outreach, sharing his knowledge with aspiring trappers and hunters through workshops, seminars, and community events. His contributions to wildlife conservation have been recognized by various organizations, including the Missouri Trappers Association and the Missouri Department of Conservation.

In addition to his hands-on work, Jerry has collaborated with local conservation groups and the Missouri Department of Conservation to develop and implement effective wildlife management strategies. For 20 years, he has been involved in Missouri’s deer CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) sampling efforts. His efforts have addressed issues such as human-wildlife conflicts, deterrent options, scare tactics for managing wildlife, and habitat preservation, ensuring the long-term health and stability of Missouri’s wildlife populations.

Jerry’s commitment to ethical trapping practices and wildlife stewardship has earned him respect and admiration within the conservation community. His work is characterized by a balance of traditional skills and modern conservation principles, making him a leading figure in the field.

When he is not in the field, Jerry enjoys sharing his experiences and knowledge with others.