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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.
Read more: Increased Coyote Encounters in Cities across Canada
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.
Read more: Why Is Raccoon Control Important in Toronto during the Summer and Fall?
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.
Read more: What Should You Do if You Encounter a Raccoon in Toronto?
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
Read more: The Ethics of Humane Raccoon Removal: How Hawkeye Bird Control’s Approach Sets Us Apart
Pigeon-Proofing Solar Panels: What You Need to Know
- Written by: Dan Frankian
In the world of solar energy, there's an unexpected guest that can cause quite a stir: Pigeons.
As solar panels become more popular, pigeon-proofing solar panels has become a topic of increasing importance for homeowners and businesses alike.
The warmth, safety, and shelter that solar panels provide pigeons make them an attractive nesting spot. But unfortunately, this isn't just a minor inconvenience.
Pigeon infestations can lead to significant financial and health implications, from damaged panels to reduced efficiency, and potential health hazards. Let’s dive deep into why pigeons are drawn to solar panels and explore a range of effective methods and solutions for solar panel pigeon proofing.
Why Do Pigeons Go on Solar Panels?
If you want to tackle the issue at hand, you’ll need to know what draws pigeons to solar panels in the first place. The primary reasons boil down to warmth, safety, and the structural design of the panels themselves.
Attraction to Warmth
Solar panels generate a significant amount of heat, especially during the colder months. This warmth is a major draw for pigeons seeking a cozy spot to roost. The panels provide a comfortable and protected environment, shielded from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Perching and Roosting
The structure of solar panels offers an ideal platform for pigeons to perch and roost. The edges and undersides of the panels provide a perfect vantage point for these birds to survey their surroundings. But unfortunately, this behavior comes with its own set of problems.
The accumulation of pigeon droppings and debris can lead to unsightly messes and potential damage to the panels.
Nesting Behavior
Underneath the solar panels lies a sheltered area that pigeons find irresistible for building their nests. This protected space shields them from the elements and predators, making it a good spot for raising their young. However, the presence of nests can pose significant challenges, from the difficulty of removal to the prevention of re-nesting.
Problems Caused by Pigeons on Solar Panels
While pigeons may seem harmless at first glance, their presence on solar panels can lead to a multitude of issues.
From physical damage to health risks, the impact of these birds on your solar investment can be significant. Let's explore the various problems caused by pigeons on solar panels and understand the importance of addressing this issue promptly by pigeon proofing solar panels.
Damage to Panels
Pigeons can cause considerable damage to solar panels in several ways. Their sharp claws can scratch and peck at the surface, leading to visible wear and tear. Additionally, the accumulation of droppings can corrode the panel's materials, affecting its longevity and appearance.
This type of damage is unsightly and can lead to costly repairs and replacements. In some cases, the extent of the damage may even require a complete overhaul of your solar panel system.
Efficiency Loss
Probably the most significant impacts of pigeons on solar panels is the loss of efficiency.
Pigeon droppings and nesting materials can obstruct sunlight, preventing the panels from absorbing the maximum amount of solar energy. This reduction in efficiency can directly affect your energy production and cost savings.
Health and Safety Concerns
Beyond the physical damage and efficiency loss, pigeons in general pose health and safety concerns. Their droppings are known to carry a variety of diseases and parasites, which can pose a risk to humans. Moreover, the accumulation of nesting materials and debris can create fire hazards, especially during dry seasons. Ensuring the cleanliness and safety of your solar panel installation is crucial to prevent these potential health and safety issues.
Pigeon-Proofing Solar Panels: What You Need to Know
Protecting your solar panels from pigeons is essential to ensuring their longevity and efficiency. Fortunately, there are various methods and products available to pigeon-proof your solar panels.
It's important to choose solutions for solar panels pigeon-proofing that are not only effective but also humane, as the goal is to deter the pigeons without causing them harm.
Here are some of the most effective strategies for keeping pigeons at bay:
Create Physical Barriers
One of the most reliable ways to pigeon proofing solar panels is through the use of physical barriers. Mesh screening is the preferred barrier, as spikes and bird netting promote nesting. Even the mesh screening must be installed at a steep angle to avoid creating another nesting ledge. Avoiding 90-degree angles is crucial. When installing these barriers, ensure that they are securely attached and cover the entire area around the panels.
Regular maintenance is also crucial; check for any gaps or damage that pigeons could exploit.
Include Visual Deterrents
Visual deterrents, such as decoy predators, like fake owls or hawks are minimally effective at best.
Maintaining Surroundings
The environment surrounding your solar panels plays a significant role in attracting or deterring pigeons. Keeping the area clean and free of food sources is essential. Regularly trim trees and bushes that provide nesting spots near the panels.
Removing debris and sealing off potential nesting sites can also reduce the likelihood of pigeons settling in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to pigeon-proof solar panels?
The cost of pigeon-proofing solar panels can vary depending on the size of your solar panel system, the type of deterrents or barriers used, the height of the roof access, and the complexity of the installation.
On average, homeowners can expect to spend anywhere from $3000 to $5,000 for professional pigeon-proofing services. This price range includes the installation of a mesh barrier. It's important to get a quote from a reputable bird control provider who can assess your specific needs and recommend the most effective solutions for your situation.
What is legal vs. illegal for pigeon-proofing in Canada?
In Canada, it's important to adhere to wildlife protection laws when pigeon-proofing solar panels. It is legal to use non-lethal methods such as physical barriers like mesh and environmental modifications (trimming trees, removing food and water sources).
However, it is illegal to harm or kill pigeons using poisons and avicides. Always check local regulations and consider consulting with a professional to ensure that your pigeon-proofing strategies are humane and comply with Canadian wildlife protection laws.
What happens if pigeons keep coming back to my solar panels?
If pigeons continue to return to your solar panels despite your pigeon-proofing efforts, it may be necessary to reassess your strategy. First, ensure that all physical barriers are intact and properly installed without any gaps. You may need to reinforce or add additional barriers.
If the problem persists, it's advisable to consult with a professional pest control or bird deterrent specialist who can provide a more comprehensive and effective solution tailored to your specific situation.
Regular monitoring and maintenance of your pigeon-proofing measures are key to preventing future infestations.
Hawkeye: Your Partner to Pigeon-Proof Solar Panels
Hawkeye offers expert services in pigeon-proofing solar panels. With effective and humane techniques, Hawkeye can provide tailored solutions to keep pigeons away from your solar investment.
Reach out to our dedicated team of bird control specialists to alleviate pigeons from your solar panels once and for all!
Benefits of Preventive Raccoon Control: How Can Hawkeye Help Protect Your Property?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Preventive raccoon control begins with you. Look past the cute little faces and remember that raccoons can bring potential damage and health risks to you and your family. Next time you notice these pests nesting on your property or trying to make their way into your home, contact a reliable raccoon control company in Toronto, such as Hawkeye Bird and Animal Control to prevent the situation from getting out of hand.
Benefits of Preventive Raccoon Control
There are many steps you can take to ensure the safety of your family and pets, as well as protect your property from damage. Consider these preventive measures.
Avoid Damage to Your Property
From drywall to wires, raccoons can claw and chew their way through most materials found in and around the structure. They can remove roofing and vinyl siding to gain access to a building. Once inside, a raccoon will use insulation and fabric materials to build a cozy nest. Yards are also no match for the critters as they will destroy a garden and lawn to obtain food, such as vegetables or insects. By taking preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of having to make costly repairs to your home and garden.
Health and Safety Concerns
Taking raccoon control methods now can protect people from the risk of becoming infected by disease. Aside from receiving a scratch or bite from a rabid raccoon, you are at risk of roundworm, giardiasis, and salmonellosis, among others. As with all wildlife, raccoons are territorial and will attack if they feel threatened. If any pets or humans get too close, they will lash out and become defensive by biting and scratching. Learn what to do or not to do when an encounter with a raccoon cannot be avoided »
Maintain a Comfortable Living Environment
When raccoons settle into a home, there can be a great deal of noise erupting as they move throughout the attic or destroy the walls. Raccoons will also growl, hiss, and whimper loudly. Due to their wide options of diet, raccoons can cause unpleasant odours in many different ways, including their urine and feces.
Read more: 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
- Written by: Dan Frankian
A wildlife feeding ban has been introduced by the City of Toronto as of April 1, 2023.
Recently, there have been numerous reports of wildlife coming in close contact with residences and businesses. As a result, city officials are taking steps to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to Toronto. The simple act of feeding ducks, birds, squirrels, and small wildlife might seem harmless, but it encourages dangerous human-to-animal confrontations.
The amendment to the city’s Animal Bylaw under Chapter 349 prohibits feeding wild animals or leaving food out to attract animals on all private and public properties, beginning April 1st. It should be noted that these new rules do not apply to private property owners who feed songbirds as long as the bird feeders are kept above grade, in a sanitary condition, and do not attract other wildlife.
Why Was the New Regulation Introduced?
This new regulation is another step of the wild animal control law to protect both people and animals while providing a safe environment within the city.
With the increase of construction and urban sprawl, more animal habitats are being displaced or destroyed. Essentially the homeless animals must then search for shelter, food, and water near their old habitats, which have now become city dwellings. This has created a series of adverse interactions with wildlife by pets, children, and even adults.
Why Do Pigeons Keep Coming Back to My Property?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Pigeon removal in Mississauga has been a concern for local businesses for many years. As the birds are notorious for their innate homing ability—meaning they will usually always return to their nesting location—most attempts to get rid of the pigeons last a short time.
Property owners and management teams do have a responsibility to their buildings’ occupants and to the public to control the pigeon population. Aside from the mess created, pigeons carry bacterial diseases such as Salmonella and Chlamydophila psittaci within their droppings. The uric acid within their feces can also cause corrosive damage to buildings.
Why Are There Pigeons on My Property?
In addition to their innate homing ability, pigeons often flock to a particular site or area due to several factors.
Trash or Pet Food
Industrial and commercial properties often have trash or garbage tossed or scattered throughout the landscape. Shops and buildings that cater to pets can also be an attraction if food is left outside.
Safe Areas
Pigeons are not exempt from the circle of life. They are often prey of crows, hawks, and seagulls. As flying is their only defence, they seek safe havens under eaves, on balconies, and roof ledges to evade their natural predators.
Gardens
More local businesses are becoming environmentally conscious by growing vegetables, fruits, and flowering plants. They too can attract pigeons. Gardens are an endless source of food and can encourage pigeons to take up residence nearby.
Bird Netting on Balconies
- Written by: Dan Frankian
If you’ve noticed an abundance of birds flocking to your balcony, not only can it be an eyesore, but it can also be a safety hazard for occupants, visitors, and nearby pedestrians. Before the problem gets any worse, talk to the team at Hawkeye Bird and Animal Control. We will assess your particular situation and provide you with effective pest bird control and removal solution options that meet your needs.
Why should I install Bird Netting on my Balcony?
While there are a number of different bird prevention measures available such as spikes, screening, wire, and other methods, Bird Netting ranks as one of the best solutions. Bird netting is a cost-effective and animal-friendly pest control measure that helps to prevent toxic fecal droppings, structural damage, and aggressive behaviour from our fine-feathered friends.
Installing balcony bird netting in Mississauga and the surrounding areas can deter birds from creating nests and habitually flying around your property. Whether you are a condominium owner or a property manager, there are significant reasons to install bird netting. Here are just a few of them: