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News, little truths and wisdom regarding Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Control, Falconry, and Birds of Prey....
Pigeon Control and Removal for Airports
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Wildlife including birds like pigeons are drawn to airports across the globe because of ample green spaces, retention ponds, and food leftovers at hangars and terminals. And then there's the landfill connection. Landfills are often found in close proximity to airports and can be home to huge flocks of seagulls and pigeons.
Given the enormous risk to human life and equipment in a bird strike incident, proactive pigeon control at airports is of utmost importance. Hawkeye's airport pigeon control program combines several strategies based on facility type and pigeon activity.
A Guide to Goose Control for GTA Beaches
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Beaches in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are a favourite spot to cool off during the summer months for residents and tourists alike. They also attract their fair share of Canada geese.
Direct access to the water, the easy escape route this access provides, and the nearby grassy areas that offer open views combine to create a perfect environment for Canada geese. Add to all of this a reduced number of goose predators, and it's no wonder that Toronto-area beaches become long-term goose gathering sites rather than temporary stopovers.
How to Get Rid of Geese from Lakefront Properties
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Waterfront properties experience some of the most persistent Canada goose problems because, unlike other properties, lakefront sites naturally provide almost everything geese need. That can make it particularly difficult to get rid of geese on a waterfront property without addressing the conditions that attract them in the first place.
This article will explore what you can do to get rid of geese and discourage them from settling around your lakefront home and when it's time to call in professional help.
Read more: How to Get Rid of Geese from Lakefront Properties
Royal Falconers And Their Birds Of Prey
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Falconry is the ancient sport of hunting with birds of prey dating back thousands of years. Falconry was practiced almost exclusively by royalty back then and in addition to the joy of training and flying a bird of prey, the bird itself may have been a symbol of the handler's status, power, expertise, and success.
Contrary to popular belief (and the book of St. Albans), emperors of the past did not automatically fly bald or golden eagles. It is far more likely that royal bird enthusiasts chose their birds according to the birds native to the area, the available prey, and their own level of training and ability. Early records of falconry exist in nearly every corner of the world and culture - from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East to the Orient and North America.
The bald eagle is often the first raptor that comes to mind when the topic of birds of prey comes up. And, in memory of the legendary Dolly Parton who sadly passed away on August 25th, 2026, we'll make this the first featured bird.
How to Get Rid of Molting Geese During Moulting Season (Summer Goose Control)
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Moulting happens during June and July and consists of Canada geese dropping and regrowing their primary flight feathers before fall migration. During this time the birds are grounded and unable to fly.
Why Do Geese moult?
All waterfowl moult during the summer, not just Canada geese.
- Moulting helps regulate their body temperature in the summer heat by increasing the area of bare skin.
- By shedding old or damaged feathers, geese can make way for new, healthy, dense feathers that will allow for migration and also help them stay warm once temperatures drop.
Read more: How to Get Rid of Molting Geese During Moulting Season (Summer Goose Control)
Goose Control During Nesting Season
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Because Canada goose behaviour changes significantly during nesting season, springtime deserves its own goose management strategy. Many property owners find that small goose issues can become major property management issues if left unaddressed.
Geese become less willing to leave previously successful breeding sites during nesting season, a time when most complaints, conflicts, and aggressive encounters occur. This article explores why property owners should not wait until goslings appear before taking action, as well as how to remove nesting geese.
Can Canada Geese Spread Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Avian influenza (also known as bird flu) is a viral disease that primarily affects birds and is mainly transmitted by wild birds and waterfowl like the Canada goose.
While many strains of the bird flu are low-pathogenic and cause few symptoms (or none at all), there are also highly pathogenic strains like H5 or H7 that can wipe out an entire flock of birds and even jump to mammals and humans.
Read more: Can Canada Geese Spread Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)?
Why Fall Raccoon Intrusions Cost GTA Factories Thousands
- Written by: Dan Frankian
As autumn approaches and temperatures begin to drop, raccoon behaviour changes noticeably. Instead of simply moving through industrial areas, raccoons begin searching for reliable shelter and food before the harsh Toronto winter arrives. Factories often provide exactly the type of protected structures they need.
Industrial facilities in the Greater Toronto Area see increased raccoon activity in the fall. We most frequently receive call for help from factories and warehouses in:
Read more: Why Fall Raccoon Intrusions Cost GTA Factories Thousands
Raccoon Control for Flower Pots and Landscape Plants
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Decorative flower pots, planters, and ornamental landscaping add beauty and curb appeal to residential and commercial properties.
Unfortunately, raccoons and other local wildlife often disturb these areas even when they are not eating the plants. Damage can become particularly frustrating when newly replanted flowers and professionally maintained landscapes are disturbed repeatedly.
Understanding why raccoons target ornamental landscapes can help you choose which prevention methods to use and determine when professional raccoon removal is necessary. Moreover, if you are seeing raccoons digging in flower pots, planters, or landscaped beds, understanding what attracts them can help you address the underlying problem.
Read more: Raccoon Control for Flower Pots and Landscape Plants
How to Get Rid of Geese from Your GTA Cottage
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Ontario’s cottage country provides the perfect landscape for Canada geese. Quiet shorelines with minimal daily disturbance and open waterfront lawns are ideal for grazing and for geese raising their offspring in the summer months. Limited or seasonal occupancy gives them plenty of time to establish future nesting grounds.
Why Goose Control Matters for GTA Cottages
While observing young goslings is super enjoyable, your cottage experience can be negatively affected by goose droppings and all that comes with them. Areas of concern might include outdoor living areas such as:
- Waterfront lawns
- Fire pit areas
- Picnic spaces
- Shoreline seating
- Children's play areas
- Paths leading to the water
