Hi, I'm Evan Corneliussen.
Animals have always been a huge part of my life. From a childhood on a working mini farm to diving among sharks and rays, the natural world has always felt like home.
Raised around animals
I lived on a working mini farm until I was 14. I remember racing horses bareback through my neighbor's pecan orchard, shark fishing in South Carolina, and tracking deer through thick underbrush.
My dad ran a wildlife business, and I grew up learning firsthand how to work around animals. From helping handle alligators to bottle-feeding orphaned fawns and rescuing countless creatures, there was always something to learn.
But it wasn't all fun and games. My dad made sure my sister and I understood the importance of life—and the responsibility that comes with caring for it.
Lessons in conservation
As an adult, I worked at Custer State Park in South Dakota, where I developed an even deeper appreciation for conservation. Bison and pronghorn could graze right outside the office. Being that close to wildlife taught me the importance of admiring animals from a safe distance and respecting their space.
Park rangers worked hard to teach visitors that lesson. Unfortunately, not everyone listened—and sometimes they learned the hard way. Those experiences reinforced something I still believe: understanding animal behavior protects both people and wildlife.
Life at the aquarium
In 2024, I became a diver at Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I learned to care for a wide variety of animals and had some unforgettable experiences with penguins, stingrays, and sharks.
Working so closely with marine life showed me just how different animals can be—and how much they all deserve thoughtful, knowledgeable care.
Now, home is Capitol Hill
Today, I live on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, and I've spent the last two years working in landscaping. I know I'll always want a job that keeps me outdoors or working with animals. There's a peace in it for me.
I'm starting Capitol Wildlife Control because I want to help neighbors deal with the rat problems affecting our city, drawing on the knowledge I grew up with. I also want to help with other nuisance-wildlife issues around the Hill.
My belief is simple: not every animal needs to be killed just because it turns up in someone's backyard. I want to focus on prevention, practical solutions, and humane treatment. When capture or relocation is appropriate and legally permitted, I'd like to pursue those options. Some animals, including rats, require different approaches under local rules.
“Life is precious, no matter what kind of life it is.”
Protecting homes and respecting wildlife shouldn't have to be competing goals. I want Capitol Wildlife Control to approach every situation with care, common sense, and respect for the rules that protect our community.
Have a wildlife question?
Reach out and tell me what's going on at your property in Washington, DC.
Service availability and any regulated work are subject to applicable licensing and local wildlife rules.