Wildlife Removal

While Ontario’s diverse wildlife can be fascinating to observe, homeowners often face challenges when animals venture too close to our living spaces. At Brampton Wildlife Control, we understand the nuisances caused by wildlife behaviour and are here to help when creatures make themselves at home in your attic, under your porch, or in other unwanted areas. This guide explores common backyard animals in Ontario, their habits, and how to manage potential conflicts.

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Mammals

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Eastern gray squirrels are one of the most common types of small mammals found in your own backyard, and it would be great to be able to say that all the squirrels live outside in hollow trees but that’s just not the case…and that can become a headache for homeowners when they decide to move in.

Characteristics:

• Average size: 40-50 cm long, including their bushy tail
• Colour variations: gray, black fur (black squirrels are a melanistic subgroup)
• The diet consists of: nuts, seeds, plant material, and occasionally small bird eggs

Homeowner Concerns:

These very common animals are notorious for finding their way into human settlements, where they can cause significant damage to insulation, wiring, and structural elements. They spend the day foraging for food, but at night, their constant gnawing can lead to expensive repairs and potential fire hazards, not to mention keeping you awake. They

Case Study: Attic Invaders

In early spring of 2023, a family in Brampton discovered that a pair of eastern gray squirrels had occupied their attic. The squirrels had chewed through a soffit to gain entry, causing damage to insulation and wiring. Brampton Wildlife Control was called in to safely evict the squirrels and seal any entry points, preventing future intrusions.

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Raccoons

Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable mammals that can cause significant problems for homeowners in both urban areas and rural areas of Ontario.

Characteristics:

• Average size: 60-95 cm long
• Distinctive features: black mask-like facial markings, ringed tail
• Diet: omnivorous, consuming food waste, insects, small animals, fruits, and nuts

Homeowner Concerns:

Raccoons are strong and dexterous, capable of opening garbage bins, tearing up lawns in search of grubs, and even ripping off shingles to access attics. They can also carry diseases that pose risks to pets and humans.

Case Study: The Porch Dwellers

A family in Brampton found that a mother raccoon had made a den underneath their front porch to raise her kits. The raccoons were causing damage to the structure and creating unsanitary conditions. Brampton Wildlife Control safely relocated the raccoon family and raccoon-proofed the porch to prevent future occurrences.

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Bird Species

Blue Jays

Blue jays are striking birds known for their intelligence and vibrant plumage. One of the very few birds that can crack open shells and nuts. While beautiful, they can sometimes cause issues for homeowners.

Characteristics:

• Color: Predominantly blue with white feathers and a bright blue crest
• Size: 22-30 cm long
• Diet: Omnivorous, they eat seeds, nuts, insects, and occasionally small birds or eggs

Homeowner Concerns:

While generally not destructive, blue jays can be noisy and may intimidate smaller birds at bird feeders. They may also scatter seeds, leading to unwanted plant growth in gardens.

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Downy Woodpeckers

Downy woodpeckers are small, active birds that can sometimes cause issues for homeowners, particularly those with wood or stucco siding.

Characteristics:

• Size: 14-17 cm long
• Distinctive features: Black and white plumage, males have a small red patch on the back of the head
• Diet: Primarily insects, also eat seeds and berries

Homeowner Concerns:

Downy woodpeckers are known to drum on houses, particularly those with wood or stucco siding. In some cases, they may even nest inside stucco siding, causing damage to the home’s exterior.

Case Study: Stucco Siding Nesters

A homeowner in Brampton noticed a pair of downy woodpeckers repeatedly visiting a small hole in their stucco siding. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the birds had excavated a nesting cavity within the siding. Brampton Wildlife Control was able to safely remove the birds, repair the damage, and install deterrents to prevent future nesting attempts.

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Red Tailed Hawks

Red tailed hawks are the most common species of hawk in North America, and certainly up there as one of the biggest birds in Canada. The red tailed hawk is a summer resident to Canada. You may have spotted one sitting on a telephone pole or perched high up in a tree, watching and waiting for sightings of prey. Although not nearly as common as other types of birds, they are a source to be reckoned with. They can swoop down to catch ground squirrels, chipmunks, rats, mice, and such. People that have very small cats or dogs are urged to supervise them outside.

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Migratory Birds

Ontario sees a variety of migratory birds passing through or nesting in the region seasonally. While these birds contribute to biodiversity, they can sometimes cause issues for homeowners.

Common Migratory Species:

• Canada Geese
• Various swallow species
• Warblers
• American Robins

Homeowner Concerns:

Migratory birds may nest in inconvenient locations, such as dryer vents, stove vents, bathroom vents, eavestroughs, or on balconies. They build nests, lay eggs, and raise their chicks. They can also collide with windows, especially during migration seasons.

Tips to Prevent Birds from Flying into Windows:

1. Apply window decals or strips: Use specialized decals or strips that are visible to birds but don’t obstruct your view.
2. Install external screens: These can cushion the impact if a bird does fly into the window.
3. Reduce reflections: Use exterior sun shades or awnings to minimize reflections on windows.
4. Move bird feeders: Place feeders either very close to windows (within 1 meter) or far away (10+ meters) to reduce collision risks.
5. Use UV liquid or gel: Apply UV-reflective liquid or gel to windows, which birds can see but humans can’t.

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Dealing with Nuisance Wildlife

At Brampton Wildlife Control, we understand that while many other animals in Ontario are harmless or even beneficial, some can become nuisances when they interfere with your daily life or cause damage to your property. Here are some tips for dealing with common wildlife issues:

1. Secure all types of food sources: Keep garbage bins tightly closed and avoid leaving pet food outdoors. Sweep up any fallen sunflower seeds from the ground, pick up any fallen fruit from trees
2. Seal entry points: Regularly inspect your home for potential entry points and seal them to prevent wildlife from entering.
3. Use humane deterrents: Employ visual or auditory deterrents to discourage unwanted wildlife without causing harm.
4. Maintain your yard: Regular lawn maintenance and trimming of tall trees can reduce shelter options for some species.
5. Professional help: For persistent problems or when animals have already entered your home, contact Brampton Wildlife Control for safe, humane, and effective solutions.

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Attracting Desirable Wildlife Safely

Many homeowners in Ontario enjoy attracting beneficial wildlife to their backyard. Here are some ways to create a wildlife-friendly space while minimizing potential conflicts:

1. Strategic bird feeder placement: Position feeders away from the house to reduce the risk of window collisions and mess near your home. Humming bird feeders with sugar water is also a great idea – no food colouring required.
2. Plant native species: Use native plants in the ground to provide natural food sources and habitat, but avoid placing them too close to your home’s foundation.
3. Provide water sources safely: Install birdbaths or small, aquatic vegetation ponds in the ground away from your house to attract birds and other wildlife without encouraging them to nest on your property.
4. Create shelter thoughtfully: Leave some areas of your yard natural, but ensure that brush piles or dense vegetation are not too close to your home.
5. Avoid pesticides: Minimize or eliminate pesticide use year round to protect insects and the animals that feed on them, while also safeguarding your family’s health.

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Additional Common Backyard Animals in Ontario

Striped Skunk

The striped skunk is a commonly found mammal in Ontario, recognized by its distinctive black fur with white stripes. While often considered a nuisance due to their potent spray, skunks play an important role in pest and wildlife control.

Characteristics:

• Average size: 50-80 cm long
• Distinctive features: black fur with white stripes along the back and tail
• Diet: omnivorous, with a preference for insects and small mammals

Homeowner Concerns:

Skunks can create burrows under porches or sheds, damage lawns while foraging for grubs, and their infamous spray can be a major nuisance if they feel threatened.

Case Study: The Midnight Gardener

A family in Brampton was puzzled by small, cone-shaped holes appearing in their lawn overnight. After setting up a wildlife camera, they discovered a striped skunk was visiting nightly, digging for grubs and insects. While the skunk’s pest control services were beneficial, the lawn damage was concerning. Brampton Wildlife Control provided advice on skunk-proofing the yard and suggested alternative grub control methods to make the lawn less attractive to skunks.

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Northern Cardinals

The northern cardinals are beloved backyard visitors, known for their bright red plumage (in males) and melodious songs.

Characteristics:

• Color: Males are bright red, females are reddish-brown
• Size: 21-23 cm long
• Diet: Seeds, fruits, and insects

Homeowner Concerns:

Northern cardinals are generally beneficial and cause few problems for homeowners. However, during breeding season, males may occasionally attack their reflections in windows or car mirrors, thinking they’re defending their territory from intruders.

Case Study: The Persistent Reflection Fighter

A homeowner in Mississauga reported a male cardinal repeatedly flying into their living room window every morning. The bird was attacking its own reflection, thinking it was a rival. Brampton Wildlife Control suggested applying window decals and external screens, which successfully deterred the bird while preventing potential injuries.

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American Crows

American crows are intelligent birds that are highly adaptable to suburban and urban backyards.

Characteristics:

• Color: All black plumage
• Size: 40-50 cm long
• Diet: Omnivorous, eating everything from insects, small animals, sunflower seeds to fruits and food waste
• Quirky fact: they have been known to leave “gifts” to people that have been kind to them

Homeowner Concerns:

Crows can be noisy, especially when gathering in large groups. They may also scatter trash if garbage bins are left unsecured.

Case Study: The Garbage Day Dilemma

A neighborhood in Brampton was experiencing issues with American crows scattering trash on garbage collection days. Brampton Wildlife Control worked with the community to implement better garbage storage solutions and educated residents on the importance of securing food waste to deter the crows.

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Mourning Doves

Mourning doves are gentle birds commonly seen in Ontario backyards, recognizable by their soft cooing calls.

Characteristics:

• Color: Grayish-brown with black spots on wings
• Size: 22-33 cm long
• Diet: Primarily seeds, also eat insects occasionally

Homeowner Concerns:

Mourning doves rarely cause problems for homeowners. However, their nests can sometimes clog gutters, dryer vents, or other cavities, if built in these locations.

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White-Tailed Deer

While not typically considered a backyard animal, white-tailed deer are increasingly venturing into suburban backyards and urban areas in search of food.

Characteristics:

• Color: Reddish-brown in summer, grayish-brown in winter
• Size: 95-220 cm long, 53-120 cm tall at the shoulder
• Diet: Herbivorous, food consists of leaves, twigs, fruits, and nuts

Homeowner Concerns:

Deer can cause significant damage to gardens and landscaping. They may also carry ticks that can transmit Lyme disease.

Case Study: The Garden Gourmet

A homeowner in a rural area near Brampton was frustrated by deer repeatedly decimating their vegetable garden. Brampton Wildlife Control helped design and implement a deer-resistant garden plan, including fencing and the use of plants that deer tend to avoid.

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Bald Eagles

While not a common backyard visitor in most of Ontario, bald eagles are increasingly spotted in areas near large bodies of water, including some residential backyards.

Characteristics:

• Color: Dark brown body with distinctive white head and tail (in adults)
• Size: 70-102 cm long, wingspan of 1.8-2.3 meters
• Diet: Primarily fish, also small mammals and other birds

Homeowner Concerns:

Bald eagles rarely cause direct problems for homeowners but may prey on small pets if left unattended outdoors. Keep an eye on your beloved pets year round.

Case Study: The Backyard Hunter

In a dramatic event witnessed by a family in their backyard near Lake Ontario, a bald eagle swooped down and caught an unsuspecting eastern gray squirrel. While initially shocked, the family came to appreciate this rare glimpse into nature’s food chain. Brampton Wildlife Control used this opportunity to educate the neighbourhood about the importance of maintaining a balanced ecosystem and the unexpected wildlife encounters that can occur even in your own backyard.

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Little Brown Bat

The little brown bat is a common species of bat found in Ontario, playing a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Characteristics:

• Size: 6-10 cm long with a wingspan of 22-27 cm
• Color: Brown fur
• Diet: Flying insects, including mosquitoes and moths

Homeowner Concerns:

Bats can roost in abandoned old buildings, house attics, barns, or other structures, potentially causing damage and sanitation issues. However, their significant role in pest control makes them beneficial when they stay out of human dwellings.

Case Study: The Attic Colony

A homeowner in Brampton discovered a colony of little brown bats residing in their attic. While concerned about potential damage, they also recognized the bats’ important role in controlling mosquito populations. Brampton Wildlife Control safely excluded the bats from the attic and installed bat houses on the property, allowing the homeowner to benefit from the bats’ pest control services without risking damage to their home.

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Great Horned Owl

Great horned owls are formidable nocturnal predators that inhabit various habitats across Ontario, including suburban backyards with mature trees.

Characteristics:

• Distinctive features: Large size, prominent ear tufts
• Size: 46-63 cm tall with a wingspan of 91-153 cm
• Diet: Varied, including small mammals, birds, and even other birds of prey

Homeowner Concerns:

Great horned owls generally don’t cause direct problems for homeowners. However, their presence can be concerning for those with small pets, as these powerful predators can take cats or small dogs if left unattended at night.

Case Study: The Nighttime Predator

A family in a wooded area of Brampton was startled one evening to see a great horned owl swoop down and catch a rabbit in their backyard. While initially alarmed, they learned from Brampton Wildlife Control about the important role these owls play in controlling rodent populations. The family was advised on how to coexist safely with these magnificent birds while protecting their pets.

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Tips for Coexisting with Wildlife

As we’ve seen, Ontario’s backyards are home to a diverse array of wildlife. While some animals can cause nuisances, many play crucial roles in our local ecosystems. Here are some additional tips for harmonious coexistence:

1. Understand seasonal patterns: Many wildlife issues are seasonal. For example, squirrels are most likely to enter attics in early spring and fall when seeking nesting sites or winter shelter.
2. Use natural deterrents: Plant mint, lavender, or other strong-smelling herbs around your property. Many animals dislike these scents and will avoid the area.
3. Manage your compost: While composting is excellent for the environment, it can attract wildlife. Use a sealed compost bin to deter animals from treating it as a food source.
4. Provide alternative habitats: Installing nesting boxes for birds or bat houses can encourage these beneficial animals to stay in your yard without entering your home.
5. Educate yourself and others: Understanding the habits and benefits of local wildlife can lead to more tolerance and better management strategies. Share your knowledge with neighbors to create a community-wide approach to wildlife coexistence.
6. Regular maintenance: Keep your property well-maintained. Trim trees away from your roof, seal any gaps or holes in your home’s exterior, and keep your yard free of debris to reduce attractive shelter options for wildlife.
7. Use motion-activated lights: These can deter nocturnal animals like raccoons from frequenting your property.
8. Consider wildlife-friendly landscaping: Use native plants that provide food and shelter for desirable wildlife while avoiding plants that attract nuisance animals.

By implementing these strategies and working with professionals like Brampton Wildlife Control when needed, homeowners can maintain a beautiful backyard that’s enjoyable for both humans and wildlife.

Remember, while it’s important to protect your property, it’s equally crucial to appreciate the role each species plays in our ecosystem. With the right approach, we can create an environment where humans and animals thrive together in our suburban backyards and beyond.

Remember, while it’s wonderful to appreciate the wildlife around us, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance. If you’re experiencing issues with animals entering your home or causing damage to your property, don’t hesitate to contact Brampton Wildlife Control. Our team of experts can provide humane, effective solutions to ensure both your family and local wildlife can coexist peacefully.