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Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 03 July 2025

Unsanitary conditions are a problem in any scenario - but when it comes to medical facilities, they are downright dangerous and can even be life threatening.  Etobicoke, like many areas across the GTA, has seen a stark increase in raccoon population and activity, and medical clinics and healthcare facilities are no exception.

Sensitive environments like doctor's offices, health clinics, hospitals, or medical labs have to have zero tolerance for wildlife presence due to the extreme health, hygiene, and legal risks. The potential consequences of introducing pathogens in these places and around people with already compromised immune systems or general health are unthinkable.

Read on and learn how to get rid of raccoons around these and other facilities in Etobicoke - from simple trapping and releasing to permanent raccoon removal. Other Toronto area wildlife control services for healthcare buildings cannot offer the option of permanent removal - but Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control can and does.

Why Medical Clinics and Childcare Buildings Attract Raccoons

• Architecture
  Medical buildings often feature older rooftops, ceiling tiles, or HVAC openings and offer easy entry points for raccoons and other wildlife;
  
  
• Food Availability
  Medical waste bins, food storage, and kitchen areas attract raccoons;
  
  
• Human Traffic
  Lower activity in the evenings and during weekends makes these buildings perfect for nesting;
  
  
• Hidden Areas
  Crawlspaces, attics, and drop ceilings offer warm, quiet nesting zones.
  
  

Hidden Dangers of Raccoons in Healthcare Facilities

• Biohazard Concern
  Raccoon feces contains Baylisascaris procyonis (roundworm), Leptospirosis, and other parasites, which can infect and greatly endanger immunocompromised patients;
  
  
• Infection and Contamination
  Hair, urine, and fleas easily contaminate sterile areas and equipment;
  
  
• Chewed Medical Wiring
  Raccoons can cause a lot of damage to healthcare facilities, including chewed wiring, which can impact patient monitoring or life-safety systems;
• Disruption of Daily Operations
  Noise and odor can interrupt clinical care and nap hours;
  
  
• Regulatory or Legal Implications
  The presence of raccoons leads to increased risk of public health inspections, fines, or temporary shutdowns.
  
  

What’s at Stake – Health, Compliance & Public Trust

• Public Health Ontario can shut down facilities if contamination or wildlife risk is observed;
  
  
• Patients may report facilities for unsafe conditions;
  
  
• Insurance rarely covers wildlife-related contamination or closures;
  
  
• Your reputation is at risk, especially in regulated industries where safety and cleanliness are mandatory.
  
  

Why Temporary Fixes Don’t Work in Regulated Facilities

Read more: Get Rid of Raccoons around Etobicoke Medical Clinics

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 30 June 2025

As we continue to learn how detrimental to our health processed foods are, protecting local food production is becoming more important and more necessary. Ontario farmers work hard all summer long, but they are often faced with significant challenges when it comes to pest birds, such as Canada Geese. If you are a farmer and find your fields invaded by geese, this article is for you.

How Can I Protect My Crops from Canada Geese in the GTA Greenbelt?

The short answer is by partnering with an experienced goose control company and by implementing a multi-faceted, adaptive geese management plan for your farm that integrates a number of deterrence methods over months or even years. But, let's look at this in more detail:

The Importance of Ontario's Greenbelt

• “Greenbelt” is a general term used to describe natural, undeveloped, and/or agricultural lands that surround urban areas. These lands may include open spaces, parks, forests, farms, vineyards, and wetlands. Currently, the Greenbelt protects over two million acres of land and nearly 40% of this acreage is farmland. 
  
  
• Greenbelt areas act as natural buffers during wildfires and provide essential groundwater during droughts. They add to biodiversity, help balance ecosystems, and offer refuge in nature for many of us city dwellers. And, much of our local, organic food is grown here.
  
  

The Impact of Canada Geese on GTA Greenbelt Agriculture

Large flocks of Canada geese are a familiar and often welcome sight for many, signaling the arrival of spring and summer but their invasion of agricultural fields can be devastating to the crops, the farmers, and by extension our local food supply. Geese foraging in large numbers are capable of consuming 30 acres of wheat, cover crops, or alfalfa fields in just a day or two.

• Loss of Production
  A large flock of geese can decimate entire fields and render the harvest moot;
  
  
• Financial Loss
  Ontario farmers are already stretched to the limit - a single season of crop destruction and the cost of replanting can spell the end of century old family farms;
  
  
• Quality Degradation
  Even if the crop isn't outright destroyed, grazing geese still diminish crop yield and quality;
  
  
  

Why Canada Geese Are a Growing Problem for Greenbelt Farmers

• General Overpopulation of Canada Geese
  As geese are adapting to life alongside humans and learn to not just survive but thrive in urban environments and surrounding greenbelts, the geese population is exploding. More goslings than ever survive their first few years of life and reproduce;
  
  
• Goose Behaviour & Diet
  Canada geese show a distinct preference for tender, young crop shoots and grasses;
  Due to their high metabolic rate geese have a constant need for foraging;
  Geese have an intricate social structure and gather in large flocks which cause extensive damage quickly;
  Farm fields offer open areas and a clear line of sight, often with nearby access to water;
  
  
• Seasonal Vulnerabilities of Crops
  Spring: Emerging seedlings (corn, soybeans, and wheat) are available early and highly palatable;
  Summer: Geese graze on leafy greens, specialized crops, and newly harvested fields;
  Fall/Winter: Resident geese graze on winter wheat, cover crops, and gleanings;
  
  
• Impact Beyond Consumption
  Even smaller flocks damage plants and soil by trampling and compaction:;
  Droppings can contaminate crops, affecting marketability and food safety;
  Agricultural fields inadvertently provide ideal goose habitats.
  
  

The Impact of Geese on Crops

• Direct Damage
  Grazing, trampling, uprooting seedlings - crop destruction in the current year;
  
  
• Indirect Damage
  Soil compaction, fecal contamination, and the introduction of pathogens can threaten future growing seasons;
  
  
• Economic Costs 
  Yield loss and replanting costs plus insurance complications put further strain on farmers;
  
  

Legal Limitations: What Farmers Can and Can’t Do

• Canada geese are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA);
  
  
• It is illegal to harm geese, their eggs, or nests without a permit;
  
  
• ALL Canada goose control methods require a permit from the Canadian Wildlife Service before work begins;
  
  
• Failure to obtain the necessary permits will result in charges and fines.
  
  

Proven Strategies for Goose Control on Farmland

Falconry (Birds of Prey)

• Falconry is the most natural and effective agricultural goose deterrent;
  
  
• Geese recognize raptors as predators and instinctively avoid areas where eagles are active;
  
  
• Falconry for goose control is particularly effective during planting, early growth, and pre-harvest stages.
  
  

Trained Working Dogs 

Read more: How to Protect Your Crops from Canada Geese in the GTA Greenbelt

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 26 June 2025

Many warehouses in Vaughan (and in fact, all across the GTA) attract the attention of raccoons and other urban wildlife. Never ending nooks and crannies to hide out in, easy access in and out, and often even a built-in self-serve buffet make for very adequate accommodations all year round.

Why Raccoons Should Not be Allowed in Warehouses

Why Do Raccoons Target Warehouses in Vaughan?

• Provision of Shelter
  A warehouse provides ample space, privacy and quiet corners.
  
  
• Food Availability
  Depending on the contents of the warehouse, a meal can come from the inventory itself, or from waste left behind by humans;
  
  
• Easy Access
  Due to the nature of warehouses, it may be virtually impossible to restrict access to local wildlife. In addition to loading docks with roll-up doors raccoons also exploit roof vents and HVAC units to gain access;
  
  
• Climate Control
  When seeking refuge from the elements, raccoons often get to enjoy at least some heat or ventilation, making the inside of a warehouse much more attractive than the harshness of the outside world. It stands to reason that warehouse occupation increases in late fall.
  
  

How to Detect a Raccoon Presence in Your Warehouse

Unless you actually see the animal, you may not be sure what you're dealing with. Here are some things to look for if you suspect a raccoon infestation:

Listen for Raccoon Noises

Granted, it may not be easy to hear anything in a busy warehouse. But when machinery shuts down and workers have left, pay attention to rustling and thumping overhead in the rafters or ceiling as well as behind boxes and in corners. 

Check out Electrical Issues

Have a close look at the condition of wiring and check if wires look chewed and/or frayed. As female raccoons prepare birthing dens, they frequently move wires or sever them to make room.

Look for Displaced Insulation

Also in pursuit of the ideal den location, insulation is often moved or destroyed.

Notice Raccoon Droppings

Pay attention to droppings on the floor, near dock doors, or smells of urine or feces.

Perform Regular Inspections

It's a good idea to inspect less-accessed areas regularly. Storage lofts, rafters, above ceiling tiles, or seldom used maintenance rooms. Additionally, the use of motion sensor cameras or thermal imaging devices can help with raccoon detection.

Read more: How to Trap and Get Rid of Raccoons in Vaughan Warehouses

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 23 June 2025

The breeding and nesting season for Canada Geese begins early each spring and families of geese are with us all summer long. And, with their stay come a host of issues - from mild annoyances to goose attacks, property damage, and the threat of diseases.

Many home and property owners desperately seek solutions to get rid of geese from residential and commercial properties. While destroying a goose nest before the goslings hatch is the most effective way to discourage geese from lingering until their fall migration AND reduce the probability of them returning to the same spot next year, there are some legal considerations.

So, Can You Legally Destroy a Goose Nest?

Yes - but ONLY with a permit issued by the Canadian Wildlife Service. Let's look at this in more detail...

Why You Can't Just Destroy a Goose Nest

The Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (MBCA): The Primary Federal Law

The Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA) is a Canadian law, that was originally created in 1917 and updated to its current version in 1994. It is based on the Migratory Birds Convention (also known as the Migratory Bird Treaty) which was agreed upon and signed by Canada and the United States in 1916. The Act aims to protect migratory birds, their eggs, and nests from activities like hunting, trafficking, and commercialization without proper permits. It also allows for the creation of Migratory Bird Sanctuaries.

The Migratory Birds Convention Act prohibits the killing, disturbing, removing, owning or selling, or destruction of migratory birds, their nests, and their eggs without a permit. Canada Geese are migratory birds and covered by this Act.

Ontario's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997 (and associated regulations)

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act from 1997 (FWCA) in Ontario regulates the hunting and trapping of wildlife, including geese. Although the FWCA doesn't specifically target geese, it does protect wildlife in general, including goose nests and eggs. Canada Geese, are also subject to the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (Canada) which provides additional protections.

All permits surrounding geese control, removal, and/or management are issued by the Canadian Wildlife Service, and they are generally granted only when there is a demonstrable need to protect public health, safety, or property. Permits are required for each method of goose control and each location, as deemed necessary. The Canadian Wildlife Service's prominent role is to protect wildlife and prevent unnecessary suffering.

Municipal By-Laws

Additionally, interference with geese and other wildlife may be further regulated by municipal by-laws. Virtually every city and town in Ontario has by-laws that prohibit the feeding of wildlife on public or private land. Under Toronto’s Animals By-law, feeding wildlife can earn you a fine of up to $365. By-laws such as this aim to help wildlife stay wild and out of harm's way.

What Are the Fines for Disturbing Canada Goose Nests Illegally?

Read more: Is It Illegal to Destroy a Canada Goose Nest?

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 17 June 2025

Early summer is when you are most likely to encounter a raccoon family in or around your home or property. As the babies are becoming mobile and mother raccoon takes them to explore the outside world, you may hear more pronounced ruffling, thumping, and even cooing or screeching, particularly in the hours between dusk and dawn.

Raccoons give birth in early spring, generally to litters of an average of 4 kits. Your attic, chimney, crawl space, or any low-traffic outbuildings make for perfect raccoon dens. Baby raccoons are born hairless and blind and will be cared for 24/7 by their mother for the first 3-4 weeks of their lives. Adult raccoons are often regarded as mostly a nuisance, but adults and kits alike actually pose a serious threat to human health and property.

What Are the Health Risks Associated with Raccoon Litters?

Health risks extend to your family and your pets. Those include:

Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis)

This is a highly resilient parasitic worm found in raccoon feces and is transmitted by ingestion of microscopic eggs found in soil, dust, and contaminated surfaces. Children and pets playing outdoors are especially at risk.

Symptoms and Consequences:

• Ocular Larva Migrans (OLM) – vision loss, blindness;
  
  
• Visceral Larva Migrans (VLM) – organ damage (liver, brain, lungs);
  
  
• Neural Larva Migrans (NLM) – severe neurological damage, coma, death (especially in children).
  
  

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through raccoon urine and is transmitted by contact with contaminated water or soil; this could be via open cuts, mucous membranes, or ingestion.

Symptoms and Consequences:

• Flu-like symptoms;
  
  
• Can lead to kidney damage, liver failure, and meningitis.
  
  

Rabies (though less common, still a significant risk)

Rabies is a viral infection affecting the nervous system. Transmission occurs from saliva, through bites or through contaminated water.

Symptoms and Consequences:

• Early signs mimic flu symptoms, including fever, headache, and general weakness;
  
  
• As the disease progresses, more distinct neurological symptoms appear, including anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, and potentially paralysis;
  
  
• Aversion to water (hydrophobia) and excessive salivation can also occur;
  
  
• Fatal, if not caught and treated early.
  
  

Other Potential Pathogens and Pests:

• Fleas, Ticks, and Mites
  Can lead to other diseases (e.g., Lyme disease) in humans and pets;
  
  
• Bacteria
  Bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli can be transmitted via fecal contamination;
  
  
• Fungal Spores
  Spores such as Histoplasmosis can be released from disturbed droppings.
  
  

Common Areas for Raccoon Dens and Litters

Residential Properties:

• Attics, wall voids, chimneys, basements;
  
  
• Under decks, sheds, woodpiles, compost bins;
  
  
• Garages and crawl spaces.
  
  

Commercial/Industrial Properties:

• Rooftops, ventilation systems, abandoned areas;
  
  
• Warehouses, storage facilities, loading docks;
  
  
• Undersides of portable structures or equipment.
  
  

Read more: How to Get Rid of the Dangers of Raccoon Litters

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 12 June 2025

Are you finding yourself at the receiving end of some raccoon rage? Well, that's not entirely surprising, given the time of year. Let's explore why raccoons may be more aggressive than usual right now and what to do about it, shall we?

Why Does Summer Bring More Raccoon Activity?

Raccoon kits are born in late spring and early summer, also known as baby raccoon season. So, an overly aggressive raccoon is most likely a new mother, protective of and worried for her little ones. Raccoon babies are born blind and hairless and depend entirely on their mother for survival. The increase in aggressive mother raccoon sightings during this time of year is mostly due to litters of 2 to 7 kits (with most litters averaging around 4). Of course, there is also the threat of rabies. If you observe a raccoon off-balance., lethargic, OR overly aggressive and you do not suspect a litter nearby, it is advisable to call your municipal animal control and inform them of your observations.

• Protecting Her Young
  Momma Raccoon stresses about the safety of her babies and is ready to defend them at the drop of a hat - particularly against male raccoons;
  
  
• Intensive Foraging
  Females will forage more so than usual for food (garbage, pet food, garden produce, accessible bird feeders, fruit trees, etc.) to sustain themselves and their growing litter, making any property with available resources a prime target.
  
  

Where Will You See Increased Raccoon Activity?

• Common nesting sites include attics, garages, chimneys, crawlspaces, sheds, and rooflines;
  
  
• Businesses may find nests in rooftop HVAC units or dumpsters;
  
  
• Raccoons may be more visible in the backyard and  garden;
  
  
• You may see more signs of raccoons around trash bins.
  
  

The Dangers of Dealing with an Aggressive Raccoon

Raccoons have sharp teeth and claws and are generally determined and courageous animals. If cornered or threatened, they will be combative.

Signs of Aggression to Watch for:

• Hissing, growling, chattering teeth, or snorting;
  
  
• Charging or making feinting attacks;
  
  
• The animal stands its ground when approached, refusing to retreat;
  
  
• Increased bold behavior, even during daylight hours, as they tirelessly forage for their growing litter.;
  
  
• Increased aggression towards family pets;
  
  
• Attempts to “shoo away” or block entry into a building backfires — the animal may tear through siding or roofing to regain access to your home.
  
  

Read more: How Do You Handle Aggressive Mother Raccoons?

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 06 June 2025

Picture, if you will: It's a hazy summer afternoon and you're relaxing in your beautiful backyard. Margarita in hand, you wonder if it's time to start the BBQ while you chuckle as you watch the kids run through the sprinkler. Ahhh... summer at its best. Except... there's now a pair of Canada geese in your yard. The kids aren't happily screeching anymore, they're terrified of the large and aggressive birds. The lawn you just mowed this morning is being 'fertilized' heavily and frequently. Suddenly, the idyllic summer day doesn't seem quite so perfect anymore. In this article, we'll have a look at what you can do to get rid of geese and make your lawn less attractive.

Homeowners all across the GTA take pride and joy in their backyards and lawns. Much time, effort, and money goes into creating the oasis we want to come home to during the oh-so-short summer months. It is heart breaking to see those efforts and our lawns destroyed by protective and aggressive geese and their excessive daily droppings.

Why Is My Lawn a Goose Magnet?

• Short Cut Grass
  The shorter you keep your grass, the better geese like it! Geese (and especially goslings) adore the tiny fresh green shoots when they first come up. A short lawn allows geese to easily get at those.
  
  
• Open Space
  Geese prefer their surroundings to be open and with unobstructed views. It aids with spotting predators early enough to escape.
  
  
• Water Features
  Your lawn will be even more popular with Canada geese, if you have any sort of water feature or little pond.
  
  

Lawn-Specific Problems Geese Cause

• Droppings Everywhere
  A single adult Canada goose can produce about 1 to 2 pounds of droppings every day. This makes walking barefoot or playing on the grass unsafe and unhygienic.
  
  
• Ruined Grass
  Because geese go after brand new green shoots, your grass never has the chance to properly regenerate. Even a pair of geese can cause root damage and excessive goose poop leaves burnt and bald patches in the grass.
  
  
• Nesting Geese
  A nesting pair of geese will not only ruin your lawn this year, but return next year, bringing along their now year old offspring. In no time at all, you will have your very own flock of Canada geese in your backyard - and the damage to your lawn will quickly multiply.
  
  
• Increased Costs
  All of your lawn care is likely costly - and in vain. No amount of fertilizing and/or reseeding is going to fix the damage caused by squatting geese.
  
  

What Doesn’t Work – Avoid Wasting Time and Money

• Audio Devices (Noise Makers, Ultrasonic Sounds)
  Auditory deterrents are largely ineffective - geese are smart and adapt quickly. They'll soon realize that there is no actual physical danger and ignore the sounds.
  
  
• Visual Deterrents (Owl Decoys, Shiny Objects, Predator Kites)
  While you may see an immediate reaction, these strategies don’t fool geese for long. If there's any success to be had with visual geese deterrents for lawns, they need to be moved around daily so that geese cannot become habituated.
  
  
• Motion-Activated Sprinklers
  Unsurprisingly, geese (water fowl) aren't terribly concerned with sprinklers. They may startle a goose or two the first couple of times they turn on but will have no effect thereafter.

The above methods do not have any long-term value when it comes to getting rid of geese on your lawn. Geese are very intelligent birds and become habituated quickly. Once they realize that they are not in any actual danger, they'll quickly learn to ignore your efforts.

So, How Do I Keep Geese Off My Lawn?

Read more: How Do I Get Rid of Geese on My Lawn?

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 05 June 2025

As highlighted in the recent news coverage on Windsor's goose infestation, there is a struggle with an increase in the goose and gosling population in cities and communities all over Ontario. Vaughan is one of those communities.

Spring has sprung and Canada geese are everywhere. This is the time when families with brand new goslings are strutting their stuff all across parks, golf courses, beaches, and busy roads. Mom and dad are protective and not above getting into a tussle with anyone who they feel gets too close to their offspring.  This stage brings new challenges for home and property owners having to deal with not only nests and aggressive geese, but highly visible and disruptive goose activity.

Why Do Goslings Change Everything?

• Adult Geese Become Extremely Aggressive
  Mother and Father Goose become quite territorial when goslings are nearby — they may hiss, chase, or attack approaching pedestrians or cyclists;
  
  
• Safety Hazard
  Goslings follow adults across paths, sidewalks, roads, and parking lots, creating a public safety hazard and increasing human-goose conflicts;
  
  
• Traffic Accidents
  Drivers swerving to avoid colliding with a family of geese or actual collisions result in thousands of dollars worth of damages and/or human injury;
  
  
• Inconvenience
  Families of geese linger for weeks, limiting access to building entrances, play areas, or outdoor workspaces;
  
  
• Escalating the Problem
  Property owners can’t rely on the assumption that the geese will “just go away.” In fact, the goslings hatched this spring will in all likelihood return to nest and start their own families next year.
  
  

Property Damage and Liability Risks

• Feces Accumulation
  Goose droppings can cause walkways to become slippery, unsanitary, and unwelcoming;
  
  
• Landscaping is Destroyed
  Because geese go after the very young green grass shoots (in fact, this is the main diet of young goslings), well manicured commercial or residential lawns are suffering considerable damage;
  
  
• Blocked Entrances and Walking Paths
  Geese hanging around business parks and housing complexes are a common sight and often disrupt business and pose risks to tenants or customers;
  
  
• Insurance and Liability Concerns
  Excessive droppings or conflicts with geese can cause falls or attacks — especially on small children, seniors, or pets.
  
  

Why Does Ignoring Goslings Lead to Long-Term Infestation?

1. Goslings imprint on the site where they hatched and are likely to return year after year to nest and start their own families;
   
   
2. Returning goslings can lead to a tripling of flock size EVERY YEAR;
   
   
3. Without intervention, infestations compound each season, leading to higher cleanup cost and effort, greater conflict, and more aggressive removal efforts later on;
   
   
4. Property managers often underestimate the impact of a single Canada goose family until it’s too late—then they’re left dealing with a much more expensive problem.
   
   

Strategies for Managing Goose Families with Goslings in Vaughan

Birds of Prey (Falconry Programs)

• Geese instinctively flee from raptors;
  
  
• Eagles flown by expert falconers disrupt and discourage goose nesting behavior without harming the birds;
  
  
• Particularly effective in open spaces like industrial parks, school fields, or commercial lawns.
  
  

Trained Goose Control Dogs

• Trained dogs are used to chase geese off the property without physical contact;
  
  
• Creates ongoing psychological pressure that encourages relocation.
  
  
• Effective for maintaining control without harming the birds or their young;
  
  
• Works exceptionally well in conjunction with falconry.
  
  

Remote-Control Vehicles (ROVs)

• Remotely Operated Boats are used in larger ponds where dogs are ineffective;
  
  
• The wake created simulates potentially predatory mammals in the water;
  
  
• ROVs serve to make the environment unstable and unpredictable;
  
  
• ROVs are best deployed after dusk when geese are on alert and more vulnerable.
  
  

Read more: How the Rise in Goslings Increases Goose Infestations Across Vaughan

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 30 May 2025

Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control founder and one of Canada's foremost experts on Geese Control Dan Frankian sat down for a virtual interview with Chris Ensing of CBC News to discuss how best to approach the growing goose population in Windsor, Ontario.

Windsor city officials deem the Canada goose population out of control and are willing to go as far as considering a mass cull.

What are the Issues with Windsor's Goose Population?

Hawkeye's Dan Frankian on Reducing the Goose Population in Windsor, Ontario

After over 35 years of dealing with geese and goose management plans, Dan Frankian has a few thoughts based on his experience and expertise. In his conversation wit CBC he narrowed it down to 'Do not let the geese population grow'. 

Disrupting the Canada Goose Breeding Cycle

Dan Frankian firmly believes that egg and nest destruction is the way forward to curb the continuing growth of Windsor's goose population. Nests need to be destroyed in front of the female in order for her to understand that she will not have a successful nest and to recognize humans as a threat to be feared. This is in contrast to chemical oiling of the eggs, where, although the eggs are no longer viable, mother goose is blissfully unaware and will continue to sit on her eggs and go on protecting her nest.

Convincing Geese to Seek Greener Pastures

• Trained Dogs
  Trained dogs are quite successful at disbursing geese when patrolling the area and chasing geese on the ground. This needs to be pursued vigorously and repeatedly. 
  
  
• Birds of Prey 
  Falconry for Goose Control is very successful and in fact works best when used alongside trained dogs. Large birds of prey (eagles) in the air and dogs on the ground send an unambiguous message that the area is unsafe and unsuitable for breeding and nesting.
  
  

Read more: Militant Approach Needed To Control Canada Geese

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 27 May 2025

Our garages often house more than vehicles and garden supplies, including anything from pet food to kid's toys - and sometimes, wildlife. Finding a single raccoon or a raccoon family dwelling in your detached garage can come as quite a surprise. Learn what you can do to evict the little critters and prevent them from coming back.

Recent calls to Scarborough homes (or more precisely, detached garages) seem to indicate a growing issue in the area. We all know that attics are a favourite hangout for raccoons (particularly over the winter and when litters of kits are born in the spring) but it looks as if detached garages are gaining popularity as well. And rightfully so - after all, they usually provide ample hiding spots and don't see a whole lot of traffic for most of the day or night. Let's look at what attracts wildlife to garages, what problems are associated with raccoons and how to get rid of raccoons from your garage.

Why is a Detached Garage a Raccoon's Ideal Den?

• Shelter and Security
  Detached garages can offer protection from the elements as well as predators and usually see minimal human activity;
  
  
• Seclusion and Privacy
  The fact that garages are generally low traffic areas (particularly during the colder months) surely adds to creating ideal conditions for nesting and raising young;
  
  
• Easy Access Points
  Aside from gaps in wood siding, roofline holes, rotted eaves, or lifted shingles, there are more often than not unsecured doors;
  
  
• Less Human Disturbance
  Again, detached garages often aren’t used daily, allowing raccoons to settle in undetected;
  
  
• Available Nesting Materials
  Old boxes, insulation, fabric, or stored goods offer comfort and denning materials.
  
  

The Rise of Raccoons Denning in Garages

With raccoon populations exploding, more and more urban structures such as garages and other outbuildings double as raccoon dens.

• Urbanization & Habitat Loss
  Continuous urban development keeps pushing raccoons into suburbs and even inner cities;
  
  
• Food Access Nearby
  Usually next to garages, garbage bins and composters can be found. Pet food is often stored in the garage;
  
  
• Lack of Natural Predators
  With the comings and goings of humans, natural raccoon predators such as coyotes tend to keep their distance;
  
  
• “Artificial Cave” Analogy
  Detached garages and/or equipment stored within can mimic safe, enclosed dens;
   
• Seasonal Timing
  Spring (birthing season) and fall (shelter before winter) see spikes in wildlife infestations and raccoons living in garages.
  
  

What Happens Once Raccoons Enter Garages?

Why do Detached Garages Make the Problem Worse Over Time?

1. Detached garages are often older buildings and more vulnerable as they tend to be less maintained and located closer to laneways, alleys, and ravines - all natural travel corridors for raccoons.
   
   
2. Long term degradation such as defects or cracks in brickwork, decaying wood planks or panels, and weakened eaves give raccoons more and easier access points over time. These type of buildings require scheduled inspections and maintenance to minimize entry, though realistically, you'll likely not be able to seal off every nook and cranny to keep raccoons from pitching a tent in your garage.
   
   
3. Raccoons are intelligent and adapt quickly; once one raccoon successfully dens in a detached garage, others in the area may follow suit, turning it into a habitual denning spot.
   
   

Read more: Raccoons in Scarborough’s Detached Garages