State of the Wildlife Control Industry 2021 is a difficult concept to discuss because the data and research regarding in industry is so hard to uncover. We are just not well enough defined as an industry so getting solid data upon which to build a view of the size of our industry is difficult indeed. Nevertheless, some information, even if it is isn’t perfect is better than no information. If for nothing else, the insights will stimulate your own thoughts about how to assess our industry.
Since we do not have direct data on our industry, we often have to rely on statistics from cousin industries. They will act as proxies to help us get a handle on the size and scope of our industry.
Below are some statistics you may find useful. These are gleaned from my presentation, The State of the Wildlife Control Operator Industry.

- Pest Control Industry Market Size. Depending on which source you choose, the PCO (i.e. pest control operator) industry is $17.26 billion or $9.4 billion. I would put more weight on the smaller number as I think the larger number includes pest control in agricultural settings.
- Market Share of the Top 100 PCO companies. The market share of the top 100 PCO companies accrues to a staggering 8.25 billion dollars. If we take the smaller number as the size of the pest control market as gospel, then the top 100 companies take 88% of the total market.
- Mean wages for PCOs is $39,790/year. Keep in mind, however, that averages can be easily skewed by a few people making a lot of money. However, the average is pretty close given that the median wages are $35,610/year.
How does all that PCO data help us understand the size of the WCO industry? Well, if we understand the biological principle of trophic levels, then we can assume that the WCO industry is about 10% of the size of the PCO market. With more and more PCOs entering the wildlife control market, the question is whether the WCOs can continue to thrive or will they be forced to just survive.
Stephen M. Vantassel, CWCP, ACE, is the owner of Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. He helps people restore their balance with nature through publishing, training, consulting, and the internet. He has published numerous articles in trade and academic publications available at {Stephen’s Academia.edu Page} along with several books {WCC Store}). Listen to his podcast “Living the Wild Life” at {Pest Geek Podcast}. Please subscribe to {Stephen’s YouTube Channel} He is a sought after speaker and trainer. If you would like to have Stephen speak at your event or use his consultation services, send an e-mail to [email protected] Copyright All postings are the property of Stephen M. Vantassel and Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. Text (not images) may be reprinted in non-profit publications provided that the author and website URL is included. If images wish to be used, explicit and written permission must be obtained from Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC.