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Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 22 August 2025

Goose control in Toronto is a growing issued these days. The citie's harbourrfront properties continue to record an increase in the Canada goose population - condos, parks, marinas, patios, and green roofs are prime targets. Iit is important to get rid of geese near the harbourfront swiftly to avoid cleanup of the subsequent mess, mitigate the risks of health and safety hazards as well as minimize a loss of reputation.

Goose Removal in the Harbourfront Area

So, Why Do Geese Love the Harbourfront So Much?

• Toronto's waterfront offers abundant green space and manicured lawns (ideal for goose grazing);
  
  
• The proximity to water provides plenty of safety for nesting and escape from land-dwelling predators;
  
  
• Because of constant human traffic, urban environments tend to discourage the presence of natural predators;
  
  
• Human presence also means supplementary wildlife feeding - intentional or accidental.
  
  

The Impact of Geese Infestations on Harbourfront Properties

Property Damage 

Excessive goose grazing leads to lawn destruction and the resulting fecal matter contaminates pathways, docks, and buildings.

Health Risks

Geese, like many bird species, carry and transmit a slew of diseases through feces and feathers, both bacterial and parasitic in nature. Some examples are Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli, Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

Safety Concerns

Canada geese are fiercely protective of their nests and offspring and known for aggressive behavior, particularly during the spring and early summer. Additionally, there are increased risks of slip-and-fall accidents due to wet and slippery surfaces from droppings.

Environmental Impact

Excessive goose droppings degrade water quality in the harbour. This becomes an even bigger concern for smaller bodies of water.

Most Affected Harbourfront Properties

• Condominium Rooftops & Green Spaces – they are ideal for nesting due to their height, warmth, and safety.
  
  
• Marinas, Floating Docks & Ferry Landings – these provide perfect resting zones for geese with minimal disturbance.
  
  
• Public Parks & Trails (HTO Park, Harbour Square Park) – with short grass, access to water, and food dropped by tourists, Toronto's parks make for perfect goose habitats.
  
  
• Restaurant Patios & Courtyards – food-seeking geese are persistent beggars and leave an unsanitary mess.
  
  
• Event Spaces & Open Waterfront Lots – geese often disrupt public events and make areas unusable.
  
  

Challenges of Waterfront Goose Control 

• Geese feel protected near water — escape routes, open views, and nesting privacy.
  
  
• Noise deterrents and decoys are largely ineffective and inappropriate for public settings.
  
  
• Legal protection under the Migratory Birds Convention Act demands permits for any and all goose control or removal methods.
  
  
• Nests may be hidden or inaccessible under benches and shrubs, around HVAC units, on rooftops, or below docks.
  
  

Should You Wait to Deal with a Canada Goose Problem?

No, you should not. Your problem, much like a flock of geese, will increase exponentially with time. Here's why:

• Canada geese return to the same nesting location to hatch 5-7 goslings every year.
  
  
• Nesting geese become territorial and aggressive — a public safety issue.
  
  
• Goose droppings carry bacteria and parasites, stain surfaces, and increase fall/injury risks.
  
  

Read more: How to Get Rid of Geese Around Toronto’s Harbourfront Properties

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 21 August 2025

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.
  
  

Read more: Raccoon Removal for Ajax Shoreline Sheds and Boathouses

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 19 August 2025

Raccoons in Markham and other GTA neighbourhoods are increasingly using soffits as entry points. Soffits are often vulnerable to aging materials, roofline gaps, and tree overhangs, especially in older homes (e.g., in Unionville and Thornhill). It’s not just noise—raccoons in soffits can lead to roof damage and attic breaches and associated water damage and electrical issues, including fire risks.

Why Raccoons Choose Soffits Over Other Entry Points

• Raccoons can easily bend aluminum or wood soffits;
  
  
• Soffits are a weak connection points between the fascia and the roofline;
  
  
• Older roofs often offer vents without covers or screening;
  
  
• Soffits offer some level of protection from rain and predators;
  
  
• Food sources like compost bins and gardens are often found right beneath soffits.
  
  

Hidden Dangers of Raccoons in Your Soffits

Structural Damage

Raccoons entering through soffits frequently leave torn panels, ruined insulation, and the potential for water leaks behind.

Health and Hygiene

Urine seepage and/or droppings inside your soffits pose serious health risks to you and your family.

Escalation Risk

Soffit breaches often lead to attic infestations.

Baby Season

Female raccoons may nest in soffits with kits, making removal that much trickier.

Read more: How to Get Rid of Raccoons from Soffits in Markham

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 08 August 2025

Why Are Canada Geese Choosing Brampton Parking Lots?

In this case, geese aren’t looking for water — they’re looking for safety and food.

• Large, flat, open areas mimic a natural “safe zone” (geese can spot threats from all directions)
  
  
• Asphalt absorbs heat, making parking lots warmer during chilly spring mornings
  
  
• Landscaped islands, grassy borders, and mulched areas provide grazing and nesting space
  
  
• Quiet time windows (weekends, early mornings, holidays) allow undisturbed nesting
  
  
• Examples across Brampton:
  • Commercial plazas
  • Business parks
  • Apartment or condo visitor lots
  • Public facilities and industrial yards
  • Parking areas in public parks such as Chinguacousy Park
    
    

What Kind of Damage Do Geese Cause in Parking Lots?

Corrosive Goose Droppings

• Acidic feces damage vehicle paint and concrete sealants;
  
  
• Droppings stain paving stones, entryways, and decorative features.
  
  

Blocked Drains and Ponding Water

• Nesting materials clog curb drains and catch basins;
  
  
• Standing water leads to slip and fall hazards and asphalt wear.
  
  

Accident and Liability Risks

• Goose droppings on painted lines and ramps create slippery and unsafe surfaces;
  
  
• Aggressive geese may cause injuries;
  
  
• Slippery feces are particularly risky in senior centers, healthcare facilities, and schools.
  
  

Aggressive Behaviour Near Entrances

• Nesting pairs may hiss, chase, or attack staff and customers;
  
  
• Increased complaints, bad online reviews, and workplace tension.
  
  

Delays for Operations & Deliveries

• Industrial and logistics yards may see vehicle movement delays due to flocks of geese blocking areas.
  
  

All of these issues impact reputation, safety, maintenance costs, and insurance risk — especially for commercial and municipal lots.

What Makes Goose Problems in Parking Lots Unique?

Unlike ponds or parks, parking lots are harder to manage due to public access, hard surfaces, and traffic flow:

• Geese may nest in awkward, hidden spots, such as under shrubs, medians, near dumpsters, or HVAC units;
  
  
• Accumulation of droppings on walkways and car doors is messy, slippery, and foul-smelling;
  
  
• Customer complaints or tenant frustration may impact reputation;
  
  
• Aggressive geese near nesting zones: will block access, hiss, chase, or even attack;
  
  
• Collisions with automobiles;
  
  
• Property damage due to corroded paint and steel railings and/or jam drainage grates from excessive goose droppings;
  
  
• Safety and liability risks are elevated, especially around seniors, kids, or during wet weather.
  
  

Read more: Goose Control for Brampton Parking Lots

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 25 July 2025

The city of Vaughan, like many other municipalities in the GTA, is seeing rapid and ongoing development and this means an increase in stormwater retention ponds in residential and commercial zones. Stormwater ponds attract Canada geese and other wildlife.

Why do Geese Flock to Vaughan’s Stormwater Ponds?

Stormwater ponds typically offer or are found near natural and man-made foods. Canada geese are adaptable and have learned to thrive alongside humans. Stormwater ponds afford geese the following benefits:

• Calm, open water and nearby grass;
• Fewer predators due to human traffic;
• Usually close to human housing developments and plenty of food sources;
  
  

Where are Stormwater Ponds Typically Found?

Common locations for stormwater ponds include:

• New subdivisions;
• Public parks;
• Industrial or retail landscapes;
• School zones with adjacent ponds;
  
  

Problems Caused by Geese in and Around Stormwater Ponds

• Heavy droppings on sidewalks, lawns, and nearby patios;;
• Aggression toward people and pets, especially during nesting season;
• Damage to turf and landscaped areas;
• Safety and sanitation risks near playgrounds, schools, or parks;
• Clogged drains or water flow disruptions from nesting materials;
• Long-term maintenance issues for HOAs and municipalities.
  
  

What You Can and Can’t Do About Geese in Stormwater Ponds

• The Migratory Birds Convention Act
  Canada geese and their nests are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act. It is illegal to harm, move, or disturb nests and eggs without proper permits. In fact, ALL methods of goose control in Vaughan and other municipalities are subject to permits.
  
  
• Hire a Goose Control Professional
  A professional wildlife control company such as Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control can assist you with obtaining the necessary permits and offer trusted geese removal services for stormwater ponds, including custom solutions in Vaughan. 
  
  
• Landscape Modification
  Changing the landscape to make it less appealing for geese to nest and raise a family is something you CAN do on your own to deter geese from ponds and you can do so without permit. For example, you can let grass grow to be 4 inches or longer or plant small shrubs around pond edges.
  
  

Strategies to Get Rid of Geese from Stormwater Ponds

Birds of Prey (Eagles)

• Falconry for goose control uses trained eagles flown by expert falconers;
• Geese instinctively fear birds of prey as they are natural predators and flee immediately;
• Birds of prey are especially effective over open stormwater pond areas with low vegetation and clear sightlines;
• Multiple flyovers condition geese to recognize the area as unsafe and permanently avoid the site;
• Falconry is safe, humane, and highly effective across residential, commercial, and municipal pond zones.
  
  

Trained Dogs

• Professionally trained dogs can be brought in to chase geese without physically harming them;
• Geese interpret dogs as natural predators and learn to avoid the area;
• Dog patrols are ideal for ponds near schools, parks, or subdivisions where falconry may be logistically limited;
• Works best with consistent patrols over several days or weeks.
  
  

Pond Wiring

• Pond wiring involves installing low wires or netting grids across smaller stormwater ponds;
• The obstruction makes it physically difficult for geese to land or take off from the water's surface;
• Wiring or netting is non-invasive and nearly invisible from a distance;
• Pond wiring can be especially helpful for long-term control at private and community ponds.
  
  

Habitat Modification

• Geese prefer open, flat spaces with short grass and a full view of approaching predators;
• Strategies include:
  • Allowing grass to grow taller around pond edges;
  • Planting dense shrubs or low fencing around key access points;
  • Creating visual obstructions near entry paths;
• Makes the area less attractive for nesting;
• Often used alongside falconry or dogs for better and lasting results.
  
  

Remote-Controlled Vehicles (ROVs)

• Remote-controlled boats are used by trained professionals to create movement and unpredictability in the water;
• ROVs are used primarily at night when geese are on high alert and more vulnerable;
• Pyrotechnics (e.g., screamers or bangers) simulate danger and startle birds;
• These tools are useful for short bursts of activity but typically require reinforcement with falconry or dogs.
  
  

Pyrotechnics and Laser Devices (Night or Low-Light Deterrence)

• Both pyrotechnics and lasers are also deployed in low light conditions and require experienced operators;
• Green lasers are pointed in front of geese in zig zag patterns to create the illusion of movement or predator-like presence;
  
  

Read more: How to Get Rid of Geese from Vaughan’s Stormwater Ponds

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 24 July 2025

Canada Geese are increasingly becoming a nuisance across urban and suburban properties. Common goose complaints include excessive droppings, aggressive behaviour, and nesting in unsafe or high-traffic areas.

Canada geese are a common sight on rooftops of commercial buildings, in public parks, industrial yards, municipal green spaces, Toronto's waterfront, and on the shores of virtually all of Ontario's many lakes. So, what can be done about that? Let's explore why falconry for goose control (a humane, non-lethal method) is so much more successful than repellents and/or visual or sound-based deterrents. 

Why Geese Are So Hard to Deter

First, we need to understand that geese are highly intelligent and social creatures that come with incredible homing instincts. When we hear homing instinct, we think of pigeons or doves... but geese are right up there. They learn and remember a migration journey thousands of miles long, from their spring nesting grounds to their winter home.

• Site Fidelity
  Geese return to the same nesting site each year, as long as it is safe and can sustain a growing family;
  
  
• Territorial Behaviour
  Canada geese are highly territorial during nesting season, often causing conflict between bird and human;
  
  
• Sheer Numbers
  Geese travel and often nest in large flocks, creating widespread disruption;
  
  
• Intelligence
  Traditional goose deterrents lose effectiveness over time as geese quickly realize that they represent no physical danger (e.g., decoys, or noise, sprays).
  
  

How Birds of Prey Work as Natural Goose Deterrents

Birds of Prey Commonly Used for Bird Control

• Falcons
  • Used in large open spaces, like landfills;
    Used for gulls and ducks;
  • Not ideal for large, aggressive geese
• Hawks (e.g., Harris’s Hawk)
  • Agile and able to navigate urban landscape, vineyards, and airport hangars;
  • Commonly used in pest bird management;
  • Not suitable for geese
• Eagles (e.g., Bald Eagles)
  • Strong presence and size
  • Best suited for intimidating and dispersing geese
  • Particularly effective in open areas like airports, large lawns, rooftops, and parks
    
    

Why Eagles Are the Best Bird of Prey for Goose Control

• Intimidation Factor
  Eagles are a top predator, able to take down a goose (although that is not the objective). Geese instinctively fear eagles;
  
  
• Visibility
  Eagles are large, dark raptors visible from long distances and instantly recognizable;
  
  
• Versatility
  Eagles are suited to work in open spaces (parks, rooftops, or runways) and complex environments;
  
  
• Proven Effectiveness
  Repeated eagle deployments create lasting avoidance behavior by Canada geese;
  
  
• Low Disruption
  Falconry using eagles produces no noise or mess; eagles blend into the environment and are safe around the public when flown by an experienced falconer.
  
  

Read more: Which Is the Best Bird of Prey for Goose Control?

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 18 July 2025

Toronto, Vaughan, Mississauga and many other communities in the GTA report a growing number of raccoon intrusions. Often, our first impulse is to search online for what repels raccoons and for DYI solutions and home remedies. The Internet is full of suggestions on how to get rid of raccoons - but how well do these methods really work? And are they even legal or safe? *Spoiler Alert* Most of these crafty solutions offer false hope and very limited success, if any.

Do Raccoon Repellents Actually Work?

The short answer is no. Some home remedies have very short lived success but none of the populare DIY methods work long-term or solve the recurring raccoon problem.

Mothballs

• Why people try it:
  The strong smell is thought to repel animals.
  
  
• Reality:
  Outdoors or in ventilated areas, the smell dissipates quickly. Raccoons usually ignore it.
  
  
• Health concern:
  Mothballs are classified as a pesticide and are toxic to humans and pets. They are illegal to use for wildlife in some provinces.

Ammonia-Soaked Rags or Open Containers

• Why people try it:
  The scent of ammonia is believed to mimic predator urine or that strong fumes will cause discomfort.
  
  
• Reality:
  Ammonia proves only mildly effective for a few hours. The smell evaporates quickly or is washed away by rain.
  
  
• Risk:
  Inhaling ammonia indoors or in crawlspaces poses safety concerns.
  
  

Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers

• Why people try it:
  Sudden movement or light may startle wildlife.
  
  
• Reality:
  Lights may work for a few nights at best, sprinklers are unlikely to work at all. Raccoons actually love water. Urban raccoons are smart and quickly learn to ignore such measures, especially when they’re used in predictable patterns or are poorly placed.
  
  

Commercial Ultrasonic Devices

• Why people try it:
  They're often sold online and marketed as “eco-friendly” or “high-tech” pest deterrents.
  
  
• Reality:
  There's no credible scientific evidence that ultrasonic noise has a consistent effect on raccoons. They may initially react but adapt quickly. Again, they are highly intelligent and recognize quickly that these devices do not pose any physical danger.
  
  

Predator Urine (Coyote, Fox, etc.)

• Why people try it:
  It is believed to trigger a strong fear response in raccoons.
  
  
• Reality:
  Raccoons in the GTA are not easily intimidated by scent alone—especially in high-traffic, food-rich areas like neighbourhoods or commercial dumpsters.
  
  
• Exception:
  The scent of a male raccoon WILL terrify a young mother with kits and she will move her offspring to a new site.
  
  
• Short shelf life:
  This requires constant reapplication; rain or humidity tends to render predator urine useless.
  
  

Peppermint Oil or Strong Essential Oils

• Why people try it:
  These are common in natural or “green” DIY solutions.
  
  
• Reality:
  Essential oils may repel raccoons briefly in enclosed spaces (e.g., under a sink or crawlspace), but are mostly ineffective for attics, rooftops, chimneys, in large spaces, or outdoors.
  
  
• False belief:
  Many natural blogs promote this without proven results.
  
  

Read more: Are Raccoon Repellents (Mothballs, Ammonia, Lights) Effective?

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 16 July 2025

We know Toronto has been dubbed "Raccoon Capitol of the World" but communities all across the GTA are also experiencing Increased raccoon nesting in attics, chimneys, under decks, and garages. With summer being prime time for juvenile raccoons stepping out into the world and seeking adventures, now is a great time to get rid of existing dens on your property and get serious about raccoon control in Toronto.

Many homeowners don't realize that raccoon nesting (or denning) equals long-term infestation risk, extensive property damage and serious health hazards.

Where and How Raccoons Build Their Nests

Here’s how to find a raccoon den:

• Indoor Nest Locations:

  • Attics (especially in insulation or dark corners)

  • Chimneys without proper caps

  • Wall voids or dropped ceilings in garages, sheds, or commercial spaces

• Outdoor Den Locations:

  • Under decks or porches

  • Inside sheds, behind HVAC units, or under staircases

  • In commercial dumpsters or rooftop ductwork

  • In or on abandoned machinery

• Signs of a Raccoon Den Nearby:

  • Flattened insulation or debris piles

  • Torn paper, leaves, plastic bags, attic insulation, etc.

  • Droppings nearby and a strong, musky odour

  • Visible baby raccoons (kits)

Challenges of Raccoon Nest Removal

• Unseen Entry Points
  • Raccoons may enter through gaps in soffits, vents, shingles, siding, or commercial rooftop openings.
  • Homeowners often patch visible entry points and leave others open, allowing the animals to return.
    
    
• Dealing with Baby Raccoons (Kits)
  • Most nests contain kits during spring and summer.
  • Newborn kits are silent, immobile, and hidden—removing the mother raccoon and/or the nest alone leaves the babies to die of starvation, causing new issues (decomposition, odor, and insect infestation).
    
    
• Aggressive Adult Raccoons
  • A mother raccoon will defend her nest aggressively.
  • Homeowners attempting to enter attics or crawlspaces risk bites, scratches, and exposure to disease such as rabies, roundworm, or other parasites.
    
    
• Limited Accessibility
  • Nests are often located in tight, high up, or dangerous spaces— under roofs, behind walls, or in narrow crawlspaces.
  • Many homeowners don’t have the proper safety gear, tools, disinfectants, or ladders to investigate or get rid of a raccoon nest safely.
    
    
• Legal & Ethical Limits
  • It is illegal to trap and relocate wildlife farther than 1 km from the capture site in Ontario.
  • Inexperienced trappers may remove adult raccoons, but leave kits behind.
    
    

Read more: Raccoon Nest or Den Removal in the GTA

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 10 July 2025

You'd expect Canada geese to invade our beaches and parks (and they do!) but you rarely look up to discover geese nesting on rooftops. You're not alone. We don't usually think of geese up high, but it actually makes sense, particularly, in Vaughan's industrial areas with lots of flat roofs. Let's explore this often overlooked issue of bird control for industrial, commercial, and residential flat roofs all across the GTA.

Why Rooftops Attract Canada Geese

• Most people associate geese with grassy parks and ponds, but rooftops—especially flat, open commercial roofs—are ideal for geese.
  
  
• Key factors that make Vaughan rooftops appealing:
  • Height offers protection from ground predators;
  • On cooler days, HVAC vents and reflective surfaces offer some added warmth;
  • Rainwater often pools on flat roofs and affords a quick drink;
  • There is little to no human traffic or interference;
    
    
• Many of Vaughan’s industrial buildings, malls, and offices offer the perfect combination of space and security for geese.
  
  

Hidden Risks of Rooftop Goose Roosting

• Accumulated droppings pose a health hazard, such as slip and fall accidents and/or the introduction of pathogens;
• Ventilation systems can become contaminated and threaten the health of building occupants, particularly those with compromised immune systems or respiratory issues;
  
  
• Geese droppings also cause corrosion and damage to the roof itself;
  
  
• Clogged drains from droppings, feathers, and nesting materials can lead to water pooling and potential flooding that leads to costly roof damage;
  
  
• Spring nesting and overprotective nesting pairs cause delays to roofing work, HVAC servicing, or solar panel maintenance;
  
  
• Legal complications due to Canada geese being protected by the Migratory Birds Convention Act;
  
  
• Improper geese removal methods in Vaughan can lead to fines or lawsuits.
  
  

Common Rooftop Goose Deterrents to Avoid

• Audio deterrents, visual decoys (like fake owls or predator balloons), sprinklers, and motion sensors are largely ineffective;
  
  
• Geese are intelligent and highly adaptable; they quickly learn to ignore these devices;
  
  
• Egg oiling or addling also doesn’t provide immediate results:
  • Geese continue to sit on unviable eggs and will be around all summer;
  • It may take years for them to abandon the site in spite of no eggs hatching;
    
    

Read more: Rooftop Goose Control in Vaughan

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 08 July 2025

Pickering and Ajax are two communities located only half an hour east of Toronto and known for some of the best hiking and cycling trails, lush ravines, and a beautiful waterfront. Forested neighbourhoods near Rouge Park, Altona Forest, or Duffins Creek Valley offer charm and an almost rural feel but they also act as natural raccoon highways, bringing animals from the wild to residential and commercial areas—especially in the fall as raccoons seek warm dens for overwintering.

Due to loss of habitat and their incredible intelligence and adaptability, raccoons don't stay in the forest - they move into your home.

Why Fall Triggers Raccoon Infestations from Green Spaces

Survival Instinct

Fall is the season to prepare for long and often harsh Ontario winters.  Here's what raccoons are looking for:

• Warm and secure shelter to build a winter den;
  
  
• Consistent food sources, often provided by unwitting humans (garbage, compost, outdoor pet food, etc.).;
  
  
• Quiet places with little human interference; this could be garden sheds and other outbuildings, attics, storage units, or under decks and porches;
  
  

The Urban-Forest Edge Effect

Neighbourhoods that border ravines are highly attractive due to the availability of water, seclusion, and food. Raccoons are rather opportunistic creatures and much prefer a quick and easy meal over one that needs to be chased down. Hence, they have learned to appreciate human offerings and view areas near the forest edge as ideal habitats.

Raccoon Hotspots in Pickering: High-Risk Ravine-Edge Zones

Residents and property managers in the following areas see a stark increase in raccoon activity once autumn has arrived:

Rougemount / Highbush

• Proximity to Rouge National Urban Park and a natural wildlife refuge;
• Older homes, featuring large lots and mature trees;
• Raccoons can easily access rooftops via fences and branches.
  
  

Altona Forest / Amberlea

• Homes and schools are bordering dense forest;
• Green bins, school dumpsters, and open vents make for  common entry points;
• We receive many reports of raccoons entering attic crawlspaces.
  
  

West Shore / Bay Ridges

• Close to Frenchman’s Bay and marshland trails;
• Ideal for raccoons nesting under sheds, decks, or boathouses.
  
  

Duffins Creek Corridor

• New developments + preserved lands = wildlife mixing with homes;
• Commercial developments near hydro corridors and wooded lots are also affected.
  
  

Why Raccoons Easily Move Between Ravines and Homes

• Unlike skunks or groundhogs, raccoons are motivated and agile climbers: They use fence lines, tree branches, and even utility poles to cross from ravines into backyards and rooftops;
  
  
• Raccoons are also clever and strong and readily rip soffits, pry open vents, and dislodge shingles to gain access to homes.
  
  
• Temporary exclusion methods fail when there’s a ready refuge in nearby woods.
  
  

Read more: Get Rid of Raccoons from Homes Near Pickering’s Ravines and Green Spaces