Raccoon Removal for Ajax Shoreline Sheds and Boathouses

The town of Ajax sports a fabulous scenic shoreline that invites both tourists and wildlife. Raccoons are attracted to dense natural cover, quiet backyards, and ready access to water and food.

Many properties have sheds, boathouses, and storage units near the waterline, making them ideal nesting sites for raccoons, especially in spring. Raccoon activity in these zones can quickly escalate into serious structural and health issues if not addressed properly.

Why Raccoons Target Waterfront Sheds and Boathouses in Ajax

Proximity of Water

Raccoons are always attracted to water and structures near water - even more so than other wildlife. Raccoons are actually avid swimmers and have a tendency to "wash" their food before consuming it.

Easy Access

• Gaps under floorboards and skirting
• Loosely fitted doors or vents
• Wood rot or storm damage is common in lakeside buildings
  
  

Wildlife Corridors

Raccoons often follow Duffins Creek, Carruthers Creek, and shoreline tree lines as “wildlife corridors.”

Signs of Raccoons Living in Your Waterfront Shed or Boathouse

• Be on the lookout for daytime sightings, especially females during baby season;
  
  
• You may notice noises like scratching, growling, or thudding;
  
  
• Insulation or nesting material may be pulled out through cracks;
  
  
• Often, you'll notice a strong, musky odour of urine or feces;
  
  
• Pay attention to disturbed fish bait, pet food, or garbage in the structure.
  
  

Challenges of Raccoon Removal from Boathouses and Waterfront Structures

Limited Accessibility

Crawlspaces or dockside supports are often too narrow for conventional traps or are submerged;

Trap-Shy Behaviour

Lakeside raccoons are more experienced due to frequent human contact and repeated trapping attempts. Learn more about trap-shy raccoons here: https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/trap-shy-raccoon.

Hidden Babies (or Kits)

Raccoon kits may be concealed under decking or in rafters—removal must account for the collection of ALL babies and humane handling.

Increased Return Rate

Open surroundings mean raccoons can easily circle back and return.

Weather-Worn Entry Points

Constant exposure to lake-effect moisture creates easy access (wood expansion, soft floors, and rotting walls).

How to Get Rid of Raccoons from Your Ajax Shed or Boathouse

Secure All Entry Points:

• Inspect sheds and boathouses thoroughly for any gaps, holes, or weak spots larger than 4 inches (raccoons can squeeze through surprisingly small openings).
  
  
• Use heavy-gauge galvanized steel mesh (1/4" or 1/2" hardware cloth) to cover all vents, openings, and potential entry points. Secure it firmly with screws.
  
  
• Reinforce weak soffits, fascia, and roof edges.
  
  
• Ensure doors and windows are tightly sealed and latched.
  
  

Eliminate Food Sources:

• Store garbage in sturdy metal or heavy-duty plastic bins with tight-fitting, raccoon-proof lids (e.g., bungee cords, clamps).
  
  
• Bring pet food indoors, especially overnight.
  
  
• Secure compost bins.
  
  
• Harvest ripe fruits and vegetables from gardens promptly.
  
  

Block Daylight Re-Entry if Possible:

• Use temporary wire mesh or plywood to test if raccoons are still inside (leave small exits if unsure);
  
  
• Do not seal fully until all animals are confirmed out (or removed professionally).
  
  

Trim Overhanging Branches:

• Raccoons are excellent climbers. Trim any tree branches that provide access to your roof or upper levels of your structures.

Clean Up Debris:

• Remove brush piles, old equipment, or anything that could offer a hiding spot near your structures.
  
  

When to Call a Professional Raccoon Control Service

• Presence of Babies (Kits): If you suspect a mother raccoon and her kits are present, attempting removal yourself can orphan the babies, leading to their death and potential further problems. Professionals use thermal imaging equipment to locate raccoon kits.
  
  
• Aggressive Raccoons: Raccoons can become aggressive when cornered or defending their young.
  
  
• Health Risks: Raccoon feces can transmit diseases like raccoon roundworm. Professionals have the training and equipment for safe cleanup.
  
  
• Extensive Damage: If raccoons have caused significant structural damage, professional repair and exclusion are necessary.
  
  
• Persistent Problems: If your humane deterrents aren't working after several days, it's time for expert intervention.
  
  
• Legal Restrictions: In Ontario, there are legal restrictions on trapping and relocating wild animals. Professionals are aware of and adhere to these regulations and can protect you from citations or penalties.
  
  

Choosing a Reputable Wildlife Control Service in Ajax

• Humane Practices: Ensure they use ethical methods like one-way doors and safe relocation of young.
  
  
• Licensing and Insurance: Verify that the raccoon removal company you choose is licensed and insured to operate in Ontario.
  
  
• Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record of raccoon removal in the Ajax area.
  
  
• Comprehensive Services: They should offer inspection, removal, and prevention (exclusion) services.
  
  
• Guarantees/Warranties: Check if any guarantees or warranties are offered for removal or exclusion work.
  
  
• Local Knowledge: A company familiar with Ajax's specific wildlife challenges can provide more tailored solutions.
  
  

Hawkeye’s Permanent Raccoon Removal for Waterfront Sheds and Shoreline Properties

• Ajax raccoons near the lake are territorial and persistent;
  
  
• Simply relocating them 1 km (as the law allows) most often means they’ll be back;
  
  
• Hawkeye is the ONLY company that offers permanent removal through humane euthanization, conducted without suffering and only by licensed professionals;
  
  
• This is often the most effective approach for repeat offenders and/or aggressive raccoons;
  
  
• Permanent raccoon removal is the only way to guarantee that the captured animal will not return.
  
  

Why Ajax Residents Trust Hawkeye for Waterfront Raccoon Removal

• Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control has the necessary extensive experience in lakeside and park-adjacent properties;
  
  
• We are the leading wildlife control company in the GTA, and the only one offering permanent raccoon removal;
  
  
• Responsive to local hotspots: Rotary Park, Paradise Beach, Pickering Beach, Lake Driveway, and South Ajax;
  
  
• Available 24/7 for emergency services.
  
  

Conclusion

• Don’t let a nesting raccoon under your boathouse or shed become an attic or deck problem next season.
  
  
• Hawkeye’s experts are ready to help you inspect, remove, and protect your lakeside structure permanently.
  
  

Contact Hawkeye and Protect Your Waterfront Structures

Call Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control today and take control of raccoons ransacking your Ajax boathouses and other shoreline structures. We are here to serve all of Ajax, including lakeside communities and properties backing onto Duffins Creek, Carruthers Creek, and the Ajax Waterfront Trail. Also available across Pickering, Whitby, Scarborough, and the entire GTA.