--- title: "Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Removal | Toronto 416.429.5393" description: "We offer licensed solutions for the control & removal of birds & animals that are humane, natural & can be scaled to suit any pest problem." url: "https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/raccoon-removal?start=20" date: "2026-08-16T12:17:25+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- ## Breadcrumbs [Home](https://www.hawkeye.ca/) > Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Removal | Toronto 416.429.5393 # raccoon removal - ### [How to Keep Raccoons Away from Bird Feeders Permanently](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-keep-raccoons-away-permanently-from-bird-feeders) Many homeowners and property managers set up bird feeders to attract songbirds, especially during colder months. Unfortunately, bird feeders are also a major attractant for raccoons—intelligent, nocturnal, opportunistic, and highly adaptable animals.  As temperatures drop, raccoons seek easy food sources, and bird feeders are one of their top winter targets. Let's explore what you can do to get rid of raccoons and keep them out of your feeders in the future. Keep in mind that DIY deterrents and gadgets are rarely all that effective, but Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control offers legal and permanent raccoon removal services in the GTA. ## Why Raccoons Are Attracted to Bird Feeders - **Food Availability**Spilled seeds and suet provide the high-calorie nutrition that raccoons need to survive the winter. Both black-oil and striped sunflower seeds are among their favorites. On that note, you might also fin squirrel and skunk visitors around your bird feeder. - **Easy Access** Raccoons are agile climbers and can easily reach most bird feeders, poles, or decks. - **Nighttime Feeding**Unlike birds, raccoons are active at night, so there's no competition around the feeder and the mess you find in the morning may well signal a raccoon visit. - **Smell and Habits**Raccoons have an excellent sense of smell that can lead them to your bird feeder. And once they find a reliable food source, they keep returning. ## How Raccoons Cause Problems Around Bird Feeders - **Damage:** - Bending poles, breaking feeders, and tearing mounts. - Damaging nearby deck railings or roof gutters while climbing. - **Health risks:** - Droppings on patios and decks contain roundworm and other pathogens. - Risk of contamination near outdoor furniture and children’s play areas. - **Secondary infestation risks:** - Raccoons attracted to feeders often explore nearby attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces for shelter. - Bird feeders act as “gateway attractants” leading to full property infestations. ## Recognizing Raccoon Activity Around Your Bird Feeder - Feeder emptied overnight. - Tracks or muddy paw prints on decks or railings. - Torn suet cages or feeder poles bent. - Scattered seeds and droppings under the feeder. - Noises at night near decks or walls. **Pro Tip: Inspect your feeders early in the morning for signs of nocturnal visitors.** - ### [How to Keep Raccoons Away from Birdhouses and Bird Baths](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-keep-raccoons-away-from-birdhouses-and-bird-baths) Many property owners adorn their backyards with birdhouses and bird baths to attract songbirds and support local wildlife. Unfortunately, these common landscape features also tend to attract raccoons. Unlike [bird feeders](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/how-to-keep-raccoons-away-permanently-from-bird-feeders), birdhouses and bird baths draw raccoons for reasons other than food.  If you're wondering how to keep raccoons away while still attracting songbirds, understanding why they visit is the first step. - ### [How to Keep Raccoons Away From Chickens](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-keep-raccoons-away-from-chickens) Are raccoons giving your chickens a hard time? These clever critters can significantly threaten your feathered pets, but with the right strategies, you can safeguard your chickens from raccoon invasions in the future. Let’s dive into how to keep raccoons away from chickens! ## Where Are Raccoons Found in Canada? Raccoons typically thrive in more forested regions, where they have plenty of natural cover and food sources. But contrary to what many people think, they’re also frequently found in more suburban environments, too. You’re likely to encounter raccoons near water sources like rivers, lakes, and streams, where they have ample food and hydration.[Raccoons are typically found](https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/raccoon) in every province other than Newfoundland and Labrador. - ### [How to Trap and Get Rid of Raccoons in Vaughan Warehouses](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-trap-and-get-rid-of-raccoons-in-vaughan-warehouses) Many warehouses in [Vaughan](https://www.vaughan.ca/) (and in fact, all across the GTA) attract the attention of raccoons and other urban wildlife. Never ending nooks and crannies to hide out in, easy access in and out, and often even a built-in self-serve buffet make for very adequate accommodations all year round.  ## Why Raccoons Should Not be Allowed in Warehouses Raccoons can be quite destructive and even shut down operations for some time, depending on the contents of the warehouse. Here are some of the problems caused by raccoons dwelling in a warehouse: - **Damage to Inventory** Raccoons are prolific chewers and diggers and damage to or contamination of inventory can be extensive; - **Structural Damage** When raccoons are occupying your warehouse, you can expect chewed wires, damaged or destroyed insulation, and comprised roofs and/or walls).; - **Health & Safety Risks** If raccoons are hanging out in a warehouse, you'll likely find one or more latrines. Raccoon droppings contain a great number of parasites, and latrine contents are highly corrosive. Of course, actual encounters with onsite raccoons offer the potential for bites or scratches - and the risk of rabies; - **Operational Disruptions** Having raccoons or other wildlife present in a warehouse poses a health and safety hazard for employees AND can get the Health & Safety boards involved, particularly if the inventory is food-related or contains medical equipment. ## Why Do Raccoons Target Warehouses in Vaughan? - **Provision of Shelter** A warehouse provides ample space, privacy and quiet corners. - **Food Availability** Depending on the contents of the warehouse, a meal can come from the inventory itself, or from waste left behind by humans; - **Easy Access** Due to the nature of warehouses, it may be virtually impossible to restrict access to local wildlife. In addition to loading docks with roll-up doors raccoons also exploit roof vents and HVAC units to gain access; - **Climate Control** When seeking refuge from the elements, raccoons often get to enjoy at least some heat or ventilation, making the inside of a warehouse much more attractive than the harshness of the outside world. It stands to reason that warehouse occupation increases in late fall. ## How to Detect a Raccoon Presence in Your Warehouse Unless you actually see the animal, you may not be sure what you're dealing with. Here are some things to look for if you suspect a raccoon infestation: ### Listen for Raccoon Noises Granted, it may not be easy to hear anything in a busy warehouse. But when machinery shuts down and workers have left, pay attention to rustling and thumping overhead in the rafters or ceiling as well as behind boxes and in corners. ### Check out Electrical Issues Have a close look at the condition of wiring and check if wires look chewed and/or frayed. As female raccoons prepare birthing dens, they frequently move wires or sever them to make room. ### Look for Displaced Insulation Also in pursuit of the ideal den location, insulation is often moved or destroyed. ### Notice Raccoon Droppings Pay attention to droppings on the floor, near dock doors, or smells of urine or feces. ### Perform Regular Inspections It's a good idea to inspect less-accessed areas regularly. Storage lofts, rafters, above ceiling tiles, or seldom used maintenance rooms. Additionally, the use of motion sensor cameras or thermal imaging devices can help with raccoon detection. - ### [Keep Raccoons at Bay: Effective Ways to Raccoon-Proof Your Home](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-raccoon-proof-your-home) Do you have a [raccoon](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/raccoons-everything-you-ever-wanted-to-know) problem? If so, you are not alone—raccoons are notoriously clever and agile creatures who can quickly make their way into seemingly inaccessible areas of your home. Whether it’s the roof or a window that has been left open, they know how to get in. But instead of resigning yourself to months of trying to remove them after they already got access, why not focus on preventing them from entering in the first place? In this blog post, we'll be going over some effective ways for you to raccoon-proof your home and keep those pesky critters out for good.  - ### [Permanent Raccoon Removal for GTA Hotels and Resorts](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/permanent-raccoon-removal-for-gta-hotels-and-resorts) In our digital age, a single guest video of a raccoon on a hotel balcony or near a buffet can go viral, causing a resort or hotel irreversible brand damage and reputational suicide. And raccoons nesting in hotels or resort facilities? Talk about a disaster.  The hospitality industry is a huge magnet for opportunistic urban raccoons. Hotels and resorts offer 24/7 food availability, heated structures, and complex landscaping. That’s why immediate, discrete, and professional raccoon removal for resorts, hotels, and other vacation properties is so critical. - ### [Permanent Raccoon Removal for Schools & Universities in the GTA](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/permanent-raccoon-removal-for-gta-schools-universities) Schools and universities make for prime raccoon habitats, offering sprawling grounds, abundant food waste from cafeterias and waste bins, and complex architecture such as portables and tunnels. In fact, educational facilities provide everything a raccoon needs to thrive.  The stakes of raccoon infestations are high: Beyond property damage, the presence of raccoons in a school environment introduces severe liability risks, including student safety, public health concerns, and potential closures. This is why campus infestations require a different approach than residential properties. [Trapping and relocating](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/raccoon-control-trapping-and-removal) almost always fails - it's time to look for a solution that works, including raccoon control for school buildings and grounds that addresses liability, safety, and long-term prevention. Permanent Raccoon Removal: Learn more or[CALL](tel:416-429-5393)for a free consultation. - ### [Permanent Raccoon Removal in Winter (GTA)](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/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](tel:416-429-5393)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](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/what-should-you-do-if-you-have-raccoons-in-your-attic-during-the-winter), [crawlspaces](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-raccoons-from-crawl-spaces), 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](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/commercial-animal-control) 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. - ### [Permanent Raccoon Removal Solutions for Lawns](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/permanent-raccoon-removal-solutions-for-lawns) Raccoons tearing up a new or well-kept lawn is a common and frustrating problem for urban and suburban property owners. Many people are shocked at the level of damage these seemingly cute animals can cause.  This is not just a nuisance but a recurring, expensive, and year-round problem. Thankfully, raccoon removal in Toronto and other areas of the GTA can solve the problem.This article will explain why raccoons target lawns, the signs of their activity, and a permanent, year-round solution to protect your property. [Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control](https://www.hawkeye.ca) is the licensed company in Canada offering [permanent**raccoon removal**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?Itemid=3523), unlike temporary deterrents or the endless cycle of trap and release. ## Quick FAQs Related to Raccoon Control for Lawns ### Q: How can I tell if lawn damage is from raccoons or skunks? **A:** The most obvious sign of lawn damage will be the amount of damage in terms of area. Raccoons leave large sections of turf torn up or flipped over and widespread patches of exposed soil. Skunks typically leave behind numerous smaller, neat, cone-shaped holes dug in a search for grubs. Both have strong claws and can create a considerable mess, but raccoons use their claws in a ripping motion to pull up large chunks of grass, while skunks use their noses and claws to make many small, more precise holes. ### Q: Why do raccoons dig up lawns? **A:** The primary reason for tearing up lawns is to get at the grubs that live beneath the surface. Torn up patches of grass near fence lines or foundations can also be an attempt at burrowing under to get access to whatever lays on the other side. ### Q: Do raccoons only damage new sod, or do they wreck established lawns, too? **A:** While raccoons destroying new sod is a big problem, they can absolutely do a number on established lawns, too. In fact, well established backyards probably offer more variety in terms of grubs and bugs. ### Q: Can I get rid of the grubs and raccoons at the same time? **A:** Probably not, but reducing the number of grubs in your yard will help make the area less attractive to raccoons. Generally, grubs are only one reason why raccoons frequent your property. Waste bins, vegetable gardens, and orchards also play a big role. ### Q: Can grub treatment alone solve raccoon lawn damage? **A:** Again, simply reducing the number of grubs will likely not solve your raccoon problem. Removing other elements that attract raccoons and/or physically removing the animals is a much better strategy. ### Q: Do raccoons carry diseases that can affect my lawn or garden? A: Raccoon diseases and parasites pose a threat to your family and pets. Your lawns or gardens are not directly affected, but may help spread those diseases. ### Q: Can raccoons damage artificial turf or golf course lawns? **A:** Indeed, raccoons do plenty of damage on both artificial turf and on golf courses. The surface material or location really doesn't matter if tasty grubs live beneath. Check out our article on [how to get rid of raccoons from golf courses](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-raccoons-in-turf-golf-courses). ### Q: What’s the best way to protect a newly seeded lawn from raccoons? **A:** Ideally, you would have applied a grub treatment even before laying down new sod or seed. And of course, you'll want to remove as many things as possible that may attract raccoons to your yard. Such things include pet food bowls, any standing water (including bird baths), trash cans, fallen fruit from trees, and more. ### Q: Can raccoons ruin sprinkler systems or lawn irrigation while digging? **A:** Yes, and actually, this is a fairly frequent occurrence. ### Q: Do yard guards or ultrasonic devices really keep raccoons off lawns? **A:** Repellents such as ultrasonic devices have very limited efficacy. Raccoons are intelligent, resourceful, and determined and quickly learn that ultrasonic devices pose no physical threat and can safely be ignored. ### Q: Will getting a dog keep raccoons from tearing up my lawn? **A:** A dog in your yard can help keep raccoons at bay in general. Keep in mind, though, that raccoons are mostly nocturnal and the scent of your dog alone may not be sufficient to stop raccoons from viewing your lawn as a buffet. ### Q: Is it safe to be on my lawn with raccoons present? **A:** It is unlikely that raccoons will dig up your lawn with you present. Again, raccoons are nocturnal and you probably won't be out there all night, but more importantly, all forms of wildlife (including raccoons) typically avoid human contact. ### Q: When is the best time of year to fix this problem? **A:** It's a good idea to start with grub treatment in May and June to kill newly hatched grubs but active infections will require you to apply multiple treatments all the way through the summer and fall. ### Q: What is the typical cost for racoon removal for lawns? Removing raccoons from lawns is no different than dealing with them anywhere else. The cost depends on how many raccoons have invaded your yard and how many visits from a wildlife removal technician it takes. You can learn more here: [https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-much-does-raccoon-removal-cost-in-toronto](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/how-much-does-raccoon-removal-cost-in-toronto) ### Q: Do I need to be present for raccoon removal service? **A:** In an outdoor situation such as your backyard, you do not necessarily need to be present when traps are set. You must, however, be available to check the traps daily and inform the wildlife technician immediately when an animal is in the trap. ### Q: How long after raccoon removal should I wait before repairing my lawn? **A:** You may repair damages to your lawn immediately once raccoons have been removed from your property. Keep in mind that a relocated raccoon will return with a high degree of certainty. [Permanent raccoon removal](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/how-to-permanently-remove-raccoons-in-vaughan) is the only way to ensure the captured animal will not return. - ### [Permanent Raccoon Removal vs. Raccoon Relocation](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/permanent-raccoon-removal-vs-raccoon-relocation) Raccoons are probably the most common nuisance wildlife species affecting GTA properties. After all, we don't call Toronto the raccoon capital of the world for nothing.  Residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, municipal, and institutional properties can all experience the same recurring raccoon problems. Many property owners assume relocating a raccoon automatically solves the issue as this is common practice employed by most wildlife control companies. - ### [Pre-Spring Raccoon Prevention Planning](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/pre-spring-raccoon-prevention-planning) The weeks leading up to spring are not "off-season" for raccoons - quite the opposite. It's mating season! While the GTA is still frozen, raccoons are at their most active briefly abandon their life of solitude. This is the time you might see groups of raccoons as males compete for mating partners and females begin scouting for maternity dens in short order.  Don't wait until you hear scratching in late March or April and find an established nursing den within your walls. Proactive planning before spring allows property owners to identify vulnerabilities before kits are born, saving thousands in repair and biohazard costs. Raccoon prevention before spring is far more effective and far less expensive than dealing with a maternity den in April. - ### [RABIES Update for March 29 2017](https://www.hawkeye.ca/rabies-in-ontario/rabies-update-for-march-29-2017) Rabies continues to spread through Ontario, mainly the Raccoon strain. Here is an update on the situation on rabies in Ontario from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) as of March 29, 2017. OMNRF are reporting 1 new case of raccoon strain rabies from the previous week, occurring in a raccoon from Haldimand. As of March 29, 2017, there have been a total of 295 cases of raccoon strain and 8 cases of fox strain rabies in Ontario. Hamilton has been the hardest his area with a total of 232 cases of Racccoon Rabies. - ### [Raccoon Control & Removal for Patios](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-control-removal-for-patios) Ahhh...summer. We all look forward to time on the patio—designed for relaxation, dining, family time, and social interaction. But did you know that your patio can be the very reason your property is plagued by local wildlife? Professional patio raccoon removal ensures the problem is handled safely and permanently before damage escalates.  Let's explore this in more detail below. - ### [Raccoon Control & Removal Oakville](https://www.hawkeye.ca/raccoon-control-removal-oakville)  Calls for Raccoon Control and Removal are among the most frequent request in [Oakville](https://www.oakville.ca/). Like so many other communities along the shores of Lake Ontario, Oakville provides plenty of space and habitat for raccoons to flourish. While the masked bandits are often thought of as just a bit of a nuisance, they actually cause a great deal of damage to properties and structures, as well as pose health risks to humans and pets alike. ## Residential Raccoon Damage - Roofs: Raccoons gaining access to [attics](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=315&Itemid=726) through roof vents - leaving behind damaged shingles, vents, - Refuse and compost: Raccoons are boisterous animals, making a great deal of noise when carrying out their searches for food and shelter such as when they raid garbage and compost containers in search of food. They often leave behind a considerable mess, which can attract more animals; - Food left outdoors: Eating food for domestic animals such as pet food and livestock feed plus feed for wildlife such as birdseed; - [In gardens](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/keep-wildlife-out-of-home): Especially in gardens containing fruit, tomatoes, melons, berries or sweetcorn, plants are eaten, dug up, or otherwise damaged and tracks and excrement are left behind; - Raccoons are attracted to lawns and gardens, especially after a rainfall when grubs and larvae are near the surface. They dig small round holes and will repeatedly turn over large swathes of freshly laid sod to un-earth worms, grubs and larvae. This particular type of behaviour is common when other sources of food are less abundant. They may return repeatedly and because of the dexterity of its front paws, the extent of the damage caused by the raccoon is generally greater than skunks. ## **Raccoon Damage on Farms** - Corn crops: many cobs partially nibbled, with the husks pulled back and the leaves folded downwards. Stalks may be broken as the animal tries to climb to get at the ears; - Raccoons are alo quite fond of fruit, able to demolish a whole berry patch in no time at all; - Hen houses and farmyards: The extreme dexterity of their front paws allows raccoons to kill or injure poultry even when the birds are kept inside enclosures or cages, as they try to reach and destroy them through the wire mesh. Poultry are often found with their heads torn off and left a short distance from the body. The neck and breast may be torn open and chewed and the entrails consumed. ; Legs or feet of the young birds may be missing. Pieces of flesh may be found near water. The eggs are often broken lengthwise and the materials used to make the nest are disturbed. Eggs may be removed completely from nests or eaten on the spot with only the heavily cracked shell remaining. Raccoons can also destroy bird nests in artificial nesting structures such as bluebird and wood duck nest boxes. For Oakville raccoon control and/or raccoon removal [contact Hawkeye](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=308&Itemid=1168) at [416.429.5393](tel:416.429.5393) today! ### Why you should call Hawkeye for Raccoon Control and Removal We GUARANTEE results. We offer PERMANENT solutions above and beyond what other companies can offer. **Hawkeye is the ONLY pest bird and animal/wildlife control company in Canada designated "Certified Wildlife Control Professional" AND holding the following licenses:** **Trapping of Fur Bearing Animals Permit:**In contrast to all other companies, we can euthanize the bird or fur bearing animal, thus guaranteeing it will not return. **Falconry Permit:** We use Birds of Prey (hawks, owls, falcons, eagles) to scare, chase, or remove in a natural and humane way. **Pest Control License:** We can employ chemical solutions to certain problems. These methods include natural pesticides. - ### [Raccoon Control and Permanent Removal in GTA Parks](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-control-and-permanent-removal-in-gta-parks) Toronto isn't called the "[Raccoon Capital of the World](https://torontolife.com/city/proof-toronto-really-raccoon-capital-world/)" by accident. But all across the GTA, urban raccoon populations are rising, including in Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, and Markham. So, raccoon control in Toronto and surrounding areas is serious business.  ## Why GTA Parks Are Prime Raccoon Habitats Is there a raccoon problem in our parks? Well, these distinctive animals are present in many parks and green spaces in the GTA and pose safety risks to children, pets, park staff, and community users. Before we get more into the risks and prevention/removal strategies, including whether there are effective raccoon deterrents for parks, let's look at what draws raccoons to our parks and why that is so undesirable: - ### [Raccoon Control and Removal - Why it is important in the fall season](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-control-and-removal-why-it-is-important-in-the-fall-season) Did you know that Toronto has been dubbed the ‘Raccoon Capitol of the World’? Estimates put Toronto’s raccoon population well over 100,000. Originally from the tropics, [raccoons](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=447&Itemid=1010) have slowly migrated north and can now be found all over North America - as far north as Alaska, as well as in Europe and even Japan. In fact, Japan is bemoaning many ancient temples being destroyed by raccoons. Raccoons are highly adaptive, both in terms of habitat and food. Scientists have studied raccoons for decades and still aren’t close to fully understanding raccoon behavior. Raccoons are intelligent and highly skilled when it comes to raiding your garbage or gaining entry into your home. Learn how to prevent raccoons from accessing your home or failing that, remove them. Greater Toronto Area residents may come nose to nose with a raccoon or five more so now, during the fall months, than most other times of year. And while you may be sympathetic to the animals seeking shelter for the upcoming winter months, you definitely do not want that shelter be in your home, shed, or under your deck or roof. - ### [Raccoon Control and Removal for GTA Greenbelt Properties](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-control-and-removal-for-gta-greenbelt-properties) The GTA Greenbelt is one of the largest protected natural landscapes in the Greater Toronto Area, so it’s home to a great variety of local wildlife, including raccoons.  Living or operating near protected natural areas offers many benefits but also increases wildlife encounters. Homes, farms, golf courses, estate properties, conservation facilities, schools, and businesses bordering greenbelt lands often experience recurring raccoon issues. Properties near the greenbelt face challenges that are quite unique compared to those in more urban centres. This article will explore the raccoon issues in the GTA Greenbelt and ways to circumvent them. - ### [Raccoon Control for Flower Pots and Landscape Plants](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-control-for-flower-pots-and-landscape-plants) Decorative flower pots, planters, and ornamental landscaping add beauty and curb appeal to residential and commercial properties.  Unfortunately, raccoons and other local wildlife often disturb these areas even when they are not eating the plants. Damage can become particularly frustrating when newly replanted flowers and professionally maintained landscapes are disturbed repeatedly. Understanding why raccoons target ornamental landscapes can help you choose which [**prevention methods**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/raccoon-prevention-exclusion) to use and determine when professional raccoon removal is necessary. Moreover, if you are seeing raccoons digging in flower pots, planters, or landscaped beds, understanding what attracts them can help you address the underlying problem. - ### [Raccoon Distemper Outbreak FAQs](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-distemper-outbreak-faqs) Below are answers to some of the questions we most often hear when it comes to [canine distemper virus (CDV)](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/raccoon-distemper-outbreak-in-the-gta) risk and raccoons, and what to do if a raccoon has distemper.  ### **Q:**Do wildlife rehab centers take raccoons with distemper? **A:** Many wildlife rehab centers may take in raccoons with suspected canine distemper, mainly to test and confirm the diagnosis. Because canine distemper is fatal and highly contagious, centers generally have to euthanize infected raccoons to end their suffering and prevent the spread to other animals. Do not approach or handle sick animals yourself. In the GTA, contact your local animal control unit or a professional wildlife operator like Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control. - ### [Raccoon Infestations in Abandoned or Vacant Properties](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/raccoon-infestations-in-abandoned-or-vacant-properties) With a declining economy, we see many empty [apartments](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/raccoon-infestation-in-apartments) or entire buildings in Toronto and the GTA, some residential but more often commercial. Of course, an abandoned property makes for the perfect home for raccoons and other wildlife.  As temperatures drop, these buildings become irresistible targets for raccoons seeking a warm, secure den to survive the cold. A property may look empty from the outside, but it can quickly become a thriving, hidden home for a family of raccoons, leading to a host of complex problems. And because of the very fact that these properties are vacant, raccoon and other wildlife infestations go unnoticed much longer, giving the animals plenty of time to establish dominance and territory. ## FAQs for Owners of Vacant Properties ### Q: I'm not in the area; can you still help? **A:** Yes, absolutely. You do not need to be present for a Hawkeye technician to remove raccoons from your property. You will, however, need to have someone to check on traps twice daily (minimum) and contact us if a raccoon has been caught. ### Q: Will my insurance cover the damage? **A:** Most homeowner policies do not cover raccoon damages. Please discuss and confirm with your insurance contact. You may want to read this article as well: [https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-raccoon-damage](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-raccoon-damage) ### Q: What if there are baby raccoons in my vacant property? **A:** Raccoons only have kits once a year - in the spring. The most important thing is to not separate a mother from her offspring. You MUST be able to capture and move all raccoons together. ### Q: How long can a raccoon live in a vacant property unnoticed? **A:** Raccoons can live in vacant buildings for as long as nobody is paying attention. During the pandemic lockdowns, reduced or non-existent human traffic and oversight caused huge issues which carry fall-out until today. ### Q: What if I need to sell or rent the property? **A:** If you spot signs such as raccoon droppings in an empty house, call a professional to remove the animals, repair the damages, and sanitize the den and latrine area. ### Q: Is it illegal to leave a property vacant with a raccoon problem? **A:** While it might not be explicitly illegal, allowing a raccoon problem on a vacant property in Ontario can lead to significant legal and financial consequences under municipal by-laws and property standards. If a raccoon infestation poses health or safety hazards or causes damages to neighbouring properties, the property owner could face orders to resolve the issue, fines of up to $50,000, and costs for municipal cleanup work. This may vary by municipality. 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Results guaranteed.", "email": "hawkeye@hawkeye.ca", "url": "https://www.hawkeye.ca", "telephone": "416-429-5393", "logo": "https://www.hawkeye.ca/images/logo.png", "image": "https://www.hawkeye.ca/images/logo.png", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "5048 Erin First Line", "addressCountry": "CA", "addressLocality": "Greater Toronto Area", "addressRegion": "Acton, Ontario", "postalCode": "L7J2L9" }, "sameAs": [ "https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hawkeye-Bird-Animal-Control/480095145343592?ref=ts&fref=ts/", "https://twitter.com/Danfrankian?lang=en", "https://www.instagram.com/hawkeyecanada", "https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-frankian-8652092a/", "https://www.youtube.com/user/birdandanimalcontrol" ] } ```