As this year’s late spring finally begins to melt away the remaining traces of snow, urban wildlife in Oakville and Milton are becoming more active. Spring is the busiest time of year for wildlife, and a vital time for their contribution to local ecosystems. During this time, it is important that newly born wildlife babies have the space to grow safely. Wildlife passing through urban communities do not know they are uninvited guests, and will take every opportunity to find a warm, cozy shelter to birth and raise their young. If you take the steps to protect your property, wildlife families will be able to safely pass through without causing harm to you or your property.
During the early spring, many homeowners begin taking their first steps into their yards and gardens after many months indoors. During your spring-cleaning routine take time to look out for weather damage to your home that may have gone unnoticed. Homeowners should also take the following steps to prepare their property for the spring:
- Repair any damage to shingles, siding or flashing that could allow wildlife access to your attic.
- Use animal proof garbage and recycling bins.
- Keep pet food indoors at all times.
- Trim tree branches that overhang your roof to reduce access.
- Keep your lawn trim and treat for grubs.
- Look out for signs of digging around sheds, decks and porches.
- Carefully remove BBQ and patio furniture covers that could provide a home for wildlife.
When wildlife gets too close for comfort you might consider trapping and relocating the offenders far from your home. Though tempting, trapping and relocating wildlife, especially during the spring and summer birthing seasons, can be both inhumane and ineffective. You could end up catching and taking a nursing mother away from her babies, leaving them orphaned with little chance for survival. There is also little guarantee that once you’ve trapped an animal they won’t soon be replaced by others in your neighbourhood. The truth is that trapping and relocating is a one-size fits all approach that comes with unintended consequences. Effective wildlife management usually requires a targeted approach that takes into account wildlife behaviour, biology and environmental conditions.
When proactive measures are not enough to deter wildlife, or when wildlife have already taken up residence on your property, the safest course of action for you and the animals is to choose humane wildlife control services. The industry leading team at Skedaddle prioritizes the safety of all wildlife, focusing on animal proofing structures for long term protection. The more steps taken to protect a property, the healthier our relationship with urban wildlife will be.
