How to Get Rid of Raccoons in GTA Storm Drainage Systems

Yep, that's probably not what you'd expect to hear on your evening news - but there have actually been several incidents of raccoons stuck in storm or sewage drains. Some made the news and involved hours of rescue work by concerned citizens, police, and animal control. One of these occurred in Heritage Park, Holyoke, MA: The grate was eventually removed and the unfortunate animal was freed using laundry detergent.

Why Storm Drains Attract Raccoons

Below-ground tunnels can offer a host of advantages for wildlife roaming around our cities. Let's examine in more detail:

• Shelter and Refuge
  Storm drains offer protection and escape from Toronto's hot and humid summers as well as harsh, cold winters.
  
  
• Safety from Predators
  While humans are the most prevalent threat to raccoons in the inner cities, there are still other natural predators around. Especially in recent years, the coyote population in urban areas has increased significantly.
  
  
• Urban Food Sources
  Storm drains are often used by raccoons to travel undetected - raid a trash can and bring the loot back to the drain. The presence of water is an added bonus as raccoons prefer to 'wash' their food before consumption.
  
  
• Underground Highways
  Drainage systems allow raccoons to navigate the GTA's urban landscape safely and undetected, avoiding traffic and human interaction.
  
  

Identifying Raccoon Activity in GTA Storm Drains

So, if raccoons hang out in storm drains... how do you know? Are there signs?

• Raccoon Sightings
  Particularly after dusk and before dawn you may see a raccoon (and hopefully not stuck in a grate) entering or exiting drain openings in GTA neighbourhoods.
  
  
• Unusual Noises
  Raccoons have never been accused of being dainty or quiet; you may notice scratching, rustling, or any of the many vocalizations raccoons use to communicate with each other.
  
  
• Droppings around Drains
  Raccoon feces may be present near drain entrances or in areas where drains overflow.
  
  
• Strong Odours
  A strong, musky, or ammonia-like smell may be emanating from drain openings.
  
  
• Debris Build-Up
  Pay close attention to unusual accumulations of leaves, twig, or other nesting materials around drain inlets.
  
  

The Real Risks of Raccoons in GTA Drainage Systems

Aside from the obvious issue of a terrified critter being stuck and unable to free itself from the grip of a steel grate, there are other ramifications of raccoons in drainage systems.

• Drain Blockages & Flooding
  Accumulation of leaves, debris, and raccoon nesting materials can impede water flow, exacerbating flooding issues common in parts of the GTA during heavy rainfall.
  
  
• Infrastructure Damage
  Raccoons can damage pipes and compromise the structural integrity of the drainage infrastructure.
  
  
• Health Hazards for GTA Residents
  Raccoon feces in drains can contaminate runoff, posing risks to pets and potentially humans. Raccoons themselves carry diseases such as rabies.
  
  
• Difficult and Dangerous Removal
  Attempting DIY removal from confined drain spaces is risky for both homeowners and animals. Raccoon removal from storm drains should be left to professionals and while observing proper safety protocols.
  
  
• Potential for Unexpected Encounters
  Raccoons emerging from drains in residential areas, parks, or even busy downtown Toronto can lead to startling and potentially dangerous situations for pedestrians or cyclists.
  
  

Traditional Raccoon Removal Doesn't Work for Storm Drains

• Underground Complexity
  Drainage systems are often connected to multiple access points (storm grates, culverts, utility tunnels), making it nearly impossible to block off all escape routes.
  
  
• Raccoons Re-Enter easily
  Even if removed and relocated (legally within 1 km), raccoons often return through unsealed or adjacent drain points.
  
  
• DIY Hazards
  Attempting to seal or flush storm drains can lead to flooding during rainfall, trapped animals dying and causing severe odour or contamination, and/or legal issues from interfering with municipal infrastructure.
  
  
• Access and Safety Issues
  Confined spaces, low visibility, and water hazards make getting rid of raccoons from storm drains too dangerous and ineffective for DYI and require professional animal removal services.
  
  

Hawkeye’s Permanent Raccoon Removal for Storm Drainage

Because blocking off entry points is not an option here, raccoon removal really is the only solution. Raccoon removal generally means live trapping the animal(s) and then releasing them within a one kilometre radius from the capture site. It is almost inevitable that the raccoon(s) will return. Realistically, dropping the animal 1km away will likely still be in the vicinity of the same tunnel system they were caught at.

Contrary to all other Ontario wildlife removal companies, Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control can offer permanent raccoon control and removal in Toronto and the GTA. Raccoons are trapped or physically captured legally and humanely euthanized. This is the same procedure used by animal shelters and in accordance with veterinary guidelines.

Prevention Strategies

There are a few things that can be done to reduce the chance of raccoon infestations in storm drains:

• Retrofitting drain grates or access covers;
• Installing wildlife-proof screens on outflow pipes;
• Regular inspections, especially near garbage areas or wooded zones;
• Educating maintenance crews and tenants on early signs.
  
  

What GTA Property Owners Should Do

• DO report sightings to local authorities (dialing 311 usually gets you in touch with non-emergency municipal services);
  
  
• DO secure your property as best as you can: secure trash bins, remove outdoor pet foods and water sources, etc.;
  
  
• DO maintain drain cover and confirm they are secure and intact;
  
  
• DO NOT approach and try to handle the animal yourself. Call City Animal Control or Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control.
  
  

Collaboration with GTA Municipalities

Before making any modifications or reinforcements, consult with city authorities and determine who is responsible for or authorized to maintain drainage infrastructure in connection with wildlife issues;

Protecting the GTA's Infrastructure and Residents

Drainage issues in a city as big as Toronto (or any city, really) can lead to catastrophic consequences for property or even human life and urban wildlife dwelling in our sewer or storm drains needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Please absolutely report any sighting of raccoons or other wildlife near drainage pipes and contact Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control for a professional assessment and plan of action. Permanent raccoon removal services are available in the GTA, including Toronto, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Ajax, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Mississauga.

Call Hawkeye today and get rid of raccoons in storm drains.