CA
US
BLOG | Hawkeye
News, little truths and wisdom regarding Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Control, Falconry, and Birds of Prey....
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
How to Keep Raccoons Away from Birdhouses and Bird Baths
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Many property owners adorn their backyards with birdhouses and bird baths to attract songbirds and support local wildlife. Unfortunately, these common landscape features also tend to attract raccoons. Unlike bird feeders, birdhouses and bird baths draw raccoons for reasons other than food.
If you're wondering how to keep raccoons away while still attracting songbirds, understanding why they visit is the first step.
Read more: How to Keep Raccoons Away from Birdhouses and Bird Baths
How to Get Rid of Geese Preparing for Migration in the GTA
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Many GTA residents assume that Canada geese will soon leave, so the problem is almost over. But in reality, goose activity often increases before migration.
In fact, during the pre-migration period, as families gather before beginning their long journey, goose behaviour can lead to larger flocks and even greater impacts on GTA properties. Understanding Canada goose migration and planning pre-migration goose control can help reduce property damage before flocks become established.
How Canada Geese Prepare for Fall Migration
Geese Increase Their Daily Feeding Activity
- Increased feeding to build energy reserves
- Longer feeding periods
- Greater use of lawns, fields, and open green spaces
Read more: How to Get Rid of Geese Preparing for Migration in the GTA
Why Late Summer Is a Good Time for Goose Control
- Written by: Dan Frankian
It is a common assumption that goose problems are over once goslings are grown and adult geese regain flight after their summer moulting season. That's why many property owners assume their goose problems are over once nesting season ends. However, late summer goose control should actually be focused on planning, assessment, and long-term management rather than simply reacting to immediate problems.
Yes, goose behaviour begins changing again as the birds prepare for seasonal movements, but property managers who dismiss geese now often miss an important strategic opportunity.
How to Get Rid of Raccoons Around Lake Ontario Properties
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Waterfront communities enjoy direct access to Lake Ontario, beautiful scenery, spectacular sunsets, and all of the activities a lake offers. But, as much as we humans enjoy hanging out by the water, so does the local wildlife population. That's why residents and businesses around Lake Ontario experience frequent wildlife interactions, with raccoons being among the most persistent nuisance animals affecting shoreline properties.
Unlike many suburban raccoon infestation sites, Lake Ontario properties often present unique environmental and structural challenges that can make raccoon removal complicated. Although every property is unique (and warrants a unique raccoon control approach), communities such as the Toronto waterfront, Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton (lakefront areas), Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, or Pickering often face similar raccoon management challenges due to their proximity to shoreline habitats.
Read more: How to Get Rid of Raccoons Around Lake Ontario Properties
Raccoon Control and Removal for GTA Greenbelt Properties
- Written by: Dan Frankian
The GTA Greenbelt is one of the largest protected natural landscapes in the Greater Toronto Area, so it’s home to a great variety of local wildlife, including raccoons.
Living or operating near protected natural areas offers many benefits but also increases wildlife encounters. Homes, farms, golf courses, estate properties, conservation facilities, schools, and businesses bordering greenbelt lands often experience recurring raccoon issues. Properties near the greenbelt face challenges that are quite unique compared to those in more urban centres. This article will explore the raccoon issues in the GTA Greenbelt and ways to circumvent them.
Read more: Raccoon Control and Removal for GTA Greenbelt Properties
How to Get Rid of Geese in Swimming Pools
- Written by: Dan Frankian
In the GTA, and in fact throughout Southern Ontario, urban sprawl, manicured backyards, and the abundance of residential and commercial swimming pools create an ideal environment for resident Canada geese during the spring and summer months.
In this article, we'll explore the issues from the awful mess to the operational and health-related costs of a goose-infested pool or spash pad, along with practical strategies to get rid of geese and prevent them from returning.
Why Swimming Pools Attract Geese
Geese are waterfowl, even if we see them mostly on green lawns or in parks. So, water plays a huge role for geese, from hydration to escape from ground predators. If you're wondering how to get rid of the geese plaguing your property, understanding why pools attract them is the first step toward choosing an effective control strategy.
