If a groundhog is digging up your garden or a raccoon has decided to reside under your deck, you now have a "one-stop" place to go for answers, thanks to a joint effort between University of Illinois Extension and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

Living With Wildlife in Illinois (http://livingwithwildlife.extension.uiuc.edu) is focused on helping Illinois residents coexist with wildlife, especially in urban areas.

"The website is designed to help people either prevent problems with wildlife or learn what to do if a problem is already occurring," explained Laura Kammin, U of I Extension wildlife and natural resources specialist and one of the site's developers.

Most people aren't aware that by Illinois law an animal removal permit must be requested from IDNR before most species of wildlife may be removed from private property, either by the resident or a nuisance wildlife control operator."

The website includes information about the permits as well as contact numbers for IDNR district wildlife biologists, nuisance wildlife control operators, and wildlife rehabilitators.

"The permit is free. By requesting a permit from an IDNR district wildlife biologist, people will be able to get professional advice on how to safely trap nuisance wildlife. The permits also help the IDNR track the number of nuisance wildlife complaints around the state," she said.

Residential and commercial developments are increasing the frequency of human and wildlife interaction.

"Raccoons are one of several generalist species that have adapted to living in urban environments," she said.

But raccoons and other wildlife don't necessarily make the best neighbors. For instance, groundhogs can wreak havoc in a garden. Raccoons literally can move into your house.

"Buildings should be regularly checked for signs of weathering. Soft spots in soffits, fascia, or near dormers make it easier for raccoons and squirrels to chew into your home. Raccoons may also den under decks and porches.

Development has also lured some species back.

"Canada geese didn't use to be that common," said Kammin. "Now, with all the ponds around various developments, the geese are coming back."

When the raccoon is at the door--or under the deck--many homeowners automatically dial their county's animal control department.

"In many cases, those departments are either overwhelmed with normal dog-and-cat calls or don't have workers with the expertise to deal with wild animals. Some will help in an emergency, such as removing wildlife from the living quarters of your home. Others will lend you live-traps and will pick up the animals when they are captured," she said.

"However, trying to trap wildlife is not recommended for someone who has no experience. There are dangers involved in dealing with wild animals. It is best to hire a nuisance wildlife control operator."

The website includes contact information for wildlife biologists that can provide that information, she added.

Among the website's features are pages on identifying the animal that is causing the problem, seasonal behaviors of wildlife, preventing and solving problems, a directory of Illinois wildlife, public health and safety issues, how to help sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife, and frequently asked questions.