What kind of varmints can I expect in Greenup County? (Russell: live, fence)

[Cearbhaill]

I am returning to Kentucky next week after a 30 year absence, and don't much remember what varmints I can expect to run into, or know what might have changed since then.

I'm settling in Greenup County (north/east), city of Russell, but I have some wooded acreage behind me. Possums, skunks, porcupines, mice, rats, the odd fox, miscellaneous snakes- what else?
Will I have deer? My entire property is six foot fenced- will that slow them down at all?

I will have quite large dogs (we have Wolfhounds), and want to protect both them and the varmints as best I can, but have no idea what I'm in for these days. The dogs are extremely fast and are proven hunters, and I worry what they might catch both literally and pathogen-wise so I can be prepared.

[Miss Blue]

Don't think you will have much problems with two big wolfhounds, unless an elk or a bear gets in. I don't know if they are that far north yet, but they have been put in the mountains south of Boyd county and are repopulating nicely..Welcome home!

[Kichenwich]

G' Morning! I'm not really familiar with the area, but do know the Ky pests well. It seems that the worst critter problems are skunks and opposums. Deer should stay out with the fence you have, plus the dogs. That should keep out some other varmits, such as fox, weasels, and rabbits. Just make SURE your dogs are up to date on all their shots and heartworm vaccines, as we do tend to have lots of mosquitos. I have found that keeping the lawn mowed and trimmed well has helped more than anything, as well as securing my garbage cans (those raccoons seem to be able to get into anything!)

However, don't forget our "good" pests-squirrels, chipmunks, etc. I encourage everyone to help care for our little furry and feathered friends. My family has hours of fun watching the birds and such, especially those Goldfinch that hang upside down to eat the sunflower seeds.

Hope this helps! ~joanna~

[Wildcat]

The one thing which hasn't been discussed here are coyotes. They are found throughout Kentucky and can cause you problems. They have the ability to carry distemper, parvovirus, rabies, etc.... and you should keep this in mind especially with your dogs.

Last year there was a problem with coyotes and raccoons with distemper in my area. Most of the time you can check with your county extension agent where you live because they will have knowledge whether any of these diseases have been seen in your area.

[Cearbhaill]

Moles!!
Nobody mentioned moles!!

I had anticipated many problems, but this mole thing is the most vexing yet. I spent a fortune grading, seeding, caring for a huge new lawn and to see those little mounds pop up is extremely disheartening. We've done all the repellant things and will pick up again in the spring, but I can honestly say that the moles have been the most aggravating thing yet.