Permanent Raccoon Removal in Winter (GTA)
As temperatures drop below freezing and natural foraging is inhibited by snow and ice, raccoons enter a state of prolonged periods of sleep (called torpor), turning attics and crawlspaces into highly sought-after survival shelters.
There is a persistent myth of "it's ok to wait until spring" and that raccoons merely hibernate and will leave on their own accord once the worst of winter is over. In this article, we will discuss why this is approach would be greatly misguided and potentially very costly. Raccoons neither hibernate, nor necessarily move out with warmer weather.
When it comes to humane animal control, the time to act is the minute you discover raccoons in your home - Call Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control at once.
What Actually Happens to Raccoons in GTA Winters
Raccoons Do Not Hibernate
Instead, they enter short periods of torpor. This is a state of reduced activity that involves lowered metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and reduced movement to conserve energy during periods of food scarcity and extreme cold.
Raccoons Are in Desperate Need of Warm Shelter
Cold snaps force raccoons to seek heat-retaining structures, preferably near food and water sources. During Ontario's harsh winter months, raccoons invade:
- Attics, crawlspaces, basements
- Utility rooms, boiler rooms
- Mechanical and service corridors
The modern, urban raccoon's chance of winter survival is actually much higher than its cousin's out in the woods. Both, residential and commercial buildings provide adequate shelter and often easily raided trash bins or dumpsters, bird feeders or outdoor pet food and water bowls. Additionally, larger predators (i.e., coyotes) often avoid areas with frequent human traffic and pose less of a threat to raccoons.
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