Yes they have a place in the nature eco system I agree. They are however capable of carrying some pretty nasty diseases and if you ever seen one stuck in your garbage can you realize they have teeth like a cat or dog and will use them on you.
If critters mess with my garden, my chickens, or my house, or my car engines, or anything else I eliminate any chance of them returning for seconds. Raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, mice, rats, possums, skunks, bob cats, foxes, all have been captured on trail cameras in my yard and all have been permanently removed. Rats ate wires on 3 of my vehicles one time. Thousands of dollars in wire harness damage changed my attitude towards catch and release.

Bon Temps!!