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News, little truths and wisdom regarding Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Control, Falconry, and Birds of Prey....
How Can I Protect My Business from Raccoons in Toronto?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
If you own a business in Toronto, raccoons can be major pests. They've been known to rummage through garbage cans and dumpsters looking for food, rip open roofs and chimneys in search of shelter, and generally make a nuisance of themselves. While it may seem like they're just harmless creatures trying to survive, the damage they can do if left unchecked has the potential to cost your business plenty. Fortunately, when it comes to raccoon control in Toronto, there are some helpful steps you can take to protect your property from these unwanted visitors.
What Are the Dangers of Raccoons to My Business?
Raccoons are notorious for being adept at finding ways into buildings, raiding trash cans, and causing costly damage to structures such as roofs, electrical systems, and insulation thanks in large part to their sharp claws and teeth.
They can make their way through wood, plaster, drywall, roofing materials, and metal. Raccoons are also capable of disassembling and destroying ventilation systems and pipes to gain access to the interior of a building.
Moreover, raccoons are known carriers of diseases, such as rabies, leptospirosis, and salmonella, that can put your employees, customers, and products (especially in food-related businesses) at risk.
Why Is It Important to Protect My Business from Raccoons?
Once raccoons gain entry to a business’s structure, it quickly becomes their haven from cold temperatures, predators, and inclement weather. Raccoons seek shelter primarily for survival. In commercial buildings, this can include the chimney, the attic, a crawl space, and hidden areas under a patio or deck.
Aside from exterior damage, raccoons will tear away at interior walls, insulation, wires, and other objects to improve their new living space. When raccoons set up home on a business’s property, it increases the risk of interaction with humans, which can lead to serious consequences and health risks.
Nearly 100 young raccoons seized from Rehabilitation Facility in Kawartha Lakes, Ontario
- Written by: Dan Frankian
September 26th,2023
Nearly 100 juvenile raccoons were removed from a Rehabilitation Facility in Kawartha Lakes, Ontario.
According to news reports, these animals were orphaned kits, slated to be released into the wild after being cared for by Mally's Third Chance Raccoon Rescue. Long time wildlife advocate Dan Frankian questions the timing of the planned release - it is almost winter. What are the chances of survival for these young raccoons? How exactly have they been prepared for their return to the wild? Do they know how to find and secure a den for the winter months? Contrary to popular belief, raccoons do not hibernate. They enter a state of slowed metabolism, called torpor. Unlike hibernation, torpor only lasts a few weeks. After that, they will have to find food and shelter.
Perhaps the more dire question is: Why were there so many orphaned raccoons in one facility alone? How did they become orphaned? Were they housed separately? What safety measures were in place to prevent the spread of rabies?
It is heart breaking to think that all these kits were left to fend for themselves, but perhaps not all that surprising. Determined home owners using DIY devices and unlicensed trappers often end up catching a new mother/lactating raccoon, not realizing that taking her a kilometre away effectively orphans her offspring. Similarly, installing a one way door in an attic, will also separate the mother from her kits and sentence them to a slow and horrible death. Not to mention the stress to the mother, unable to reach and care for her young. In fact, the animals that ended up in Kawartha Lakes are considerably luckier than the vast amount of raccoon kits who starve to death.
Increased Coyote Encounters in Cities across Canada
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Burlington, Ontario is not the only city that has reported a noticeable increase in coyote sightings and interactions with residents. Coyote sightings are becoming a much more frequent occurrence in many urban centers across Canada.
Urban sprawl and the loss of habitat is often cited as the main reason for many previously shy and skittish critters boldly moving to the city. It makes sense; we continuously expand our living space into more rural areas and end up displacing wildlife in the process. But, we are in a rather unique time because of the last three years and COVID lockdowns.
During lockdowns, human traffic was way down, signaling to animals that people had vacated the outdoors and perhaps it was safe for them to reclaim territory. Parks and woodlands were free of playing children, joggers, hikers, and people playing outdoors. All was quiet. Many building projects came to a halt, leaving behind abandoned sites, perfect for denning and raising offspring.
On the other hand, those pesky humans (us) who were locked in their homes and craving contact and connection, delighted in seeing wildlife in their backyards and started leaving out food. Nature, and animals in particular, have a way of healing the soul. During a time when people felt isolated, alone, and disconnected, even just observing otherwise hard to spot wildlife, brought a bit of joy.
Raccoon Control Tips to Protect Pets
- Written by: Dan Frankian
As pet owners, it's important to protect our furry companions from potential threats like raccoons. Raccoons can invade a property and wreak havoc on outdoor pets or even unsecured indoor cats if the necessary measures are not taken. If you've noticed any signs of strange wildlife in your backyard, it may be time to start implementing some raccoon control techniques. In this blog post, we'll cover some raccoon control tips for keeping these mischievous critters away from your beloved family pets!
Understanding Raccoon Behaviour and Habits
Toronto is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the often-misunderstood raccoon. These masked mammals have adapted to city life and can often be found rummaging through trash cans or lounging in trees.
Understanding their natural tendencies is crucial not only for coexisting peacefully with these creatures but also for preserving our communities and keeping our pets safe. With their sharp claws and keen sense of smell, raccoons can be formidable adversaries, but they also display remarkable intelligence and resourcefulness.
Health Risks and Concerns for Pets
Raccoons can pose significant health risks to pets. The most significant concern is the transmission of diseases through bites, scratches, or contaminated saliva, urine, or feces. Dogs have a tendency to actually ingest raccoon feces. Raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and canine distemper virus, which have severe consequences for our pets if left untreated.
It's essential to recognize the symptoms of potential raccoon-related illnesses in our pets early on and take immediate action. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations go a long way in keeping our pets healthy and happy. Remember to always supervise your pets while outdoors and don't let them come into contact with raccoons or any other wildlife.
Will a Raccoon Attack My Dog or Cat?
While raccoons are generally not aggressive towards animals larger than them, it's always important to take precautions to ensure your pet's safety. During walks throughout the neighbourhood, keep dogs (and cats) on a leash to have full control if a raccoon is encountered.
Although raccoons are typically non-confrontational, a raccoon will attack another animal if provoked or if it feels threatened. Raccoons are especially protective of their kits. When it comes to dogs and raccoons, dogs tend to scare raccoons by barking or chasing them. On the other hand, a curious cat might provoke a raccoon, although it is a rare occurrence.
Why Is Raccoon Control Important in Toronto during the Summer and Fall?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Raccoon control in Toronto and the surrounding areas is a huge part of public safety, especially during the summer and fall months. Raccoons are intelligent and versatile creatures, known to take advantage of the warmer months and seek out food and shelter wherever possible. While they may seem cute and harmless, raccoons can carry a range of diseases, including rabies, and pose a significant threat to human health and safety.
Understanding Raccoon Behaviour in Toronto
During the warmer seasons, raccoons are more active as they search for food and resources to prepare for the upcoming winter. Additionally, mating season for raccoons typically occurs in late winter and early spring, resulting in a new generation of young raccoons being born in the summer and fall. This increase in raccoon activity and population during these seasons ultimately leads to more sightings in the city and a higher need for raccoon control in the summer and fall.
Raccoons are also known to be opportunistic omnivores. This means that they eat a wide variety of foods, including plants, animals, and even garbage (e.g., human food waste) depending on whatever is available at the time. Raccoons have impressive adaptability that allows them to thrive in various environments.
Knowing how to coexist with raccoons and understanding their behaviour can help mitigate potential conflict and keep both humans and raccoons safe.
Pigeon Control vs. Pigeon Removal: Understanding the Difference when Choosing the Right Solution
- Written by: Dan Frankian
If you're dealing with pesky pigeons invading your property, it's important to understand the difference between pigeon control and pigeon removal. While they may sound similar, the two solutions have different approaches and outcomes.
Pigeon control focuses on preventing pigeons from entering and settling in a certain area, while pigeon removal involves permanently removing the birds from the area. Depending on the severity of the pigeon problem and your desired outcome, one solution may be more appropriate than the other. Keep reading to find out which solution is right for you.
What Should You Do if You Encounter a Raccoon in Toronto?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Encountering a raccoon in Toronto might seem like a great photo op, but it can turn scary in seconds. Even the most dangerous raccoon can appear to be friendly and downright cute at first. But the fact remains: raccoons are wild animals. They can and will attack people and small pets if they feel threatened. That’s why if you see a raccoon, whether in public or on your property, it’s best to leave it alone.
But what if a raccoon approaches you? What should you do? In this article, we discuss some safety tips and actions you should take if you or your family encounter a raccoon in Toronto.
Why Are Raccoons Dangerous?
Raccoons are wild animals that have unpredictable behaviour around humans. When its personal space is threatened, or they feel cornered, a raccoon will use its sharp claws and teeth to defend itself.
Raccoons are known to be carriers of various diseases. In fact, raccoons are the second most likely wild animal to be infected with rabies. While the symptoms of rabies may take weeks or months to take effect within the human body, once it begins, rabies is 100% fatal.
Coping Birds of Prey Beaks
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Birds of prey, also known as raptors, are a diverse group of predatory birds that are characterized by their sharp talons and hooked beaks. These birds are well equipped to hunt and feed on other animals, and the condition of their beaks plays a big role in both, the hunting and feeding process. Coping a bird of prey's beak involves trimming or filing its beak to maintain its proper shape and length. In this article, we will explore the ratios and angles of beaks for hawks, falcons, eagles, and owls, and how trimming is done.
A birds of prey's beak is a specialized, precise tool that is designed for capturing, killing, and consuming prey. The shape and size of the beak vary depending on the bird's hunting style, diet, and habitat. For example, hawks and eagles have longer beaks that are designed for tearing flesh, while owls have shorter, curved beaks that are designed for crushing and tearing apart prey.
The Ethics of Humane Raccoon Removal: How Hawkeye Bird Control’s Approach Sets Us Apart
- Written by: Dan Frankian
More exposure to the topic of ethics in humane raccoon removal is needed in today’s world. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997 (FWCA) by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is the provincial governing law in Ontario that regulates hunting and trapping, and humane control of wildlife situations. The MNRF enforces these laws.
Under the Act, policies and regulations are legally in place to ensure that wildlife, including raccoons, are not harassed, captured, or killed using inhumane methods.
The Importance of Humane Raccoon Removal
Raccoon control and removal should always be accomplished by means of humane measures. Despite the negative perception of the behaviour of these critters, or reported property damage, it is important to ensure they are not harmed or killed unnecessarily.
As with human life, ethics come into play when discussing and considering the life of a wild creature, including that of a raccoon. Humane measures prevent exposure to stress, pain, and even a slow death.
These measures most often take the form of live trapping and capture using specific traps as set out by the MNRF in Ontario
How Do I Get Rid of Pigeons Under My Solar Panels?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
If you have noticed pigeons gathering and nesting under the solar panels on your commercial property, there are a few steps you can take to successfully remove the birds and/or prevent further nesting and congregating.
Why Is It a Problem to Have Pigeons Under My Solar Panels?
While it may not seem all that terrible to have pigeons residing under your solar panels, there are several reasons why this can actually become a problem. One of the main concerns is the potential damage that these birds can cause with their nesting habits and droppings.
Birds can cause significant damage and destruction to solar panels simply from perching on the panels, wiring, and brackets. Their talons and beaks can scratch the surface, reducing the longevity of the panels. Pigeons are also known to build their nests with materials that can be harmful to the panels, such as twigs and debris and their droppings can corrode the panels over time, leading to a decrease in efficiency and increased maintenance costs.
How do I prevent Pigeons from nesting under my Solar Panels?
Professional wildlife experts recommend using wire mesh around the solar panels to prevent pigeons from building nests. Ledge Protection Systems such as roof spikes may offer some success as well. Contrary to what you may read on the Internet, fake plastic or stone predators are NOT a viable option for deterring pigeons - they no not work.
Additionally, having your solar panels regularly inspected and maintained can help decrease the likelihood of pigeons roosting or nesting on or near the panels. Maintenance should include keeping the glass and surrounding area clean and free of debris.
How do I remove Pigeons if they have already settled?
Reputable companies will use humane trapping methods to capture the pigeons without harm and remove them from the area. Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control deploys proprietary traps - designed by and for us exclusively. Falconry is a bit more difficult (read: costly), but could be useful, if used in combination with other control methods.
- Benefits of Preventive Raccoon Control: How Can Hawkeye Help Protect Your Property?
- Protecting Wildlife and Improving Public Safety: Toronto's New Bylaw to Curb Wildlife Feeding
- Why Do Pigeons Keep Coming Back to My Property?
- Bird Netting on Balconies
- New Toronto Bylaw prohibits feeding Wildlife
- 10 Tell-Tale Signs You Have a Raccoon in Your Home
- Keep Raccoons at Bay: Effective Ways to Raccoon-Proof Your Home
