Bill Dowd, Author at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control
Bill Dowd

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Why Does Skedaddle Need to Perform an Inspection?

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When homeowners discover wildlife activity in or around their home, one of the first questions we hear is why an inspection is necessary before any removal or prevention work begins. Scratching noises, movement in the attic, or visible damage around vents and rooflines can create a strong sense of urgency, and many people want the… Continue reading

What Makes a Great Skedaddle Technician?

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When wildlife enters a home, the situation can be stressful for homeowners who may be unsure what is happening, how serious the issue is, or how it will be resolved. Unfamiliar sounds, visible damage, or concerns about health and safety often leave people feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. A great Skedaddle… Continue reading

Could You Have Mice In Your Basement? What To Look For

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You might think the basement is quiet, unused, or out of sight. You store boxes there. You rarely go down at night. That’s exactly why it becomes a problem area so often. If you’ve noticed strange smells, small sounds after dark, or signs that don’t quite make sense, you may be dealing with a basement… Continue reading

Chimney Blockages: Could Birds Be the Cause?

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Birds causing chimney blockages are a frequent yet often overlooked problem for homeowners and businesses throughout Ottawa. If you’ve noticed a sudden change in your fireplace’s draft or have heard scratching sounds coming from your chimney, feathered intruders may be the source. This issue is especially common during the colder months, catching many by surprise… Continue reading

How to Prepare for Your Property Assessment: A Simple Guide for Homeowners

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A wildlife issue can be stressful, but preparing for your upcoming property assessment doesn’t have to be. Our technicians conduct a full interior and exterior inspection to identify how animals are entering your home and what solutions will protect your property long-term. A little preparation beforehand helps ensure the assessment is thorough, efficient, and tailored… Continue reading

Will My Wildlife Problem Be Fixed in One Visit?

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When homeowners hear scratching in the attic or discover wildlife behind the walls, one of the first questions they ask is: “Can this be solved today?” It’s a fair question — wildlife in the home is stressful and homeowners understandably want the quickest solution possible. Every home, every species, and every scenario is different. Factors… Continue reading

Humane Skunk Removal: Preventing Odors and Damage Before Spring

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Every spring in Ottawa, homeowners and business owners brace for one of the city’s most notorious backyard visitors—the striped skunk. As the snow melts near places like Parliament Hill, these animals emerge from their winter dens, often making their presence known by the unmistakable smell they leave behind. Humane skunk removal tips aren’t just reactive… Continue reading

What Happens After You Hear Scratching in the Attic: How Skedaddle Responds to Your First Call

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When a homeowner hears scratching in the attic for the first time, there’s a moment of dread that’s impossible to ignore. Is it a raccoon? A squirrel? Mice? Is something making a nest up there? That uncertainty is exactly why the first call to Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control matters so much. What happens next isn’t… Continue reading

How to Tell if Raccoons Are Nesting in Your Chimney This Winter

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With the cold winds blowing through Guelph and the Royal City’s historic landmarks dusted in winter snow, homeowners may start to worry about unexpected guests. Raccoons nesting in chimneys during winter is a concern we see every year. These smart animals often slip undetected into chimneys seeking warmth and shelter, causing all kinds of headaches… Continue reading

What Is Skedaddle‘s Wildlife Exclusion Process?

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When a homeowner hears scratching in the attic or discovers signs of wildlife behind the walls, panic and frustration often come first. The instinct is to focus on the immediate problem: What animal is this? How quickly can someone remove it? But at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we know that safe removal is only the… Continue reading

Raccoon Tracks in the Snow: Spotting Signs of an Infestation

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The winter months in Ottawa bring striking scenes, like the Rideau Canal shimmering with snow and ice. They also reveal the subtle evidence of local wildlife. One sign that often goes unnoticed is raccoon tracks in snow—evidence of infestation homeowners should pay close attention to during Canada’s coldest season. Spotting these tracks and understanding other… Continue reading

How Rats Spread Through Connected Townhomes and Condos in Winter

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You might think your home is sealed tight for winter, but if you live in a connected townhome or condo, you share more than just walls. You share hidden passageways that make it easier for rats to move around. During the cold months, rats in townhomes in winter become a serious problem. When temperatures drop… Continue reading

How Squirrels Sneak Into Garages During the Coldest Months

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You walk into your garage on a cold morning and hear faint rustling. Maybe a thump. Maybe something small scurrying behind boxes. You freeze for a second, then think, “Could that be… a squirrel?” If you live in Ottawa, chances are it is. Squirrels in garages in the winter are more common than most homeowners… Continue reading

How Squirrels Store Food Inside Canadian Homes

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You might hear scratching, light thuds, or tiny footsteps in your attic during winter and think it’s just the wind. But if those sounds keep happening, you probably have uninvited guests and not the kind you can scare away by yelling. You could be sharing your home with squirrels that have turned your attic or… Continue reading

Red Squirrels vs. Grey Squirrels: Which One Is in Your Attic This December?

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You wake up one cold December morning and hear soft scratching above your ceiling. It’s early, still dark, and for a second, you wonder if it’s just the wind. Then you hear it again—fast, sharp movements that stop and start. If you’re hearing sounds like this, you probably have squirrels in the attic. But which… Continue reading

Will You See A Skunk This Winter? Or Do They Hibernate?

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You may be asking yourself this simple question: Do skunks hibernate in winter or will you see them?  It’s an important thing to know, especially if you live in Ottawa or anywhere across Canada where cold weather shapes animal behaviour. The truth is that skunks don’t fully hibernate. Instead, they enter a lighter sleep called… Continue reading

What Birds Could Be Trying To Invade Your Home This Winter (And How To Stop Them)!

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You may think winter means a break from wildlife problems, but that’s not always true. Cold weather pushes many animals to look for warmth and shelter, and your home could become their target. One issue many families in Ottawa face is winter bird home invasions. So, what birds could be trying to invade your home… Continue reading

Skunks In Cold Weather: What You Need To Know

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Winter in Ontario brings freezing nights, heavy snow, and icy winds. People bundle up in coats and stay inside, but have you ever wondered what happens to skunks in cold weather? Do they hibernate? Do they keep searching for food? The truth is, they have their own special ways of surviving. When you understand skunks… Continue reading

In The Nation’s Capital: Why Squirrels Are Such A Problem In Ottawa

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You live in Ottawa, the nation’s capital, and you already know how busy city life can be. But there’s one problem that shows up every year and causes more stress than you’d expect—squirrels. At first, they might look cute running across power lines or hopping through the park, but once they get near your home… Continue reading

The Unseen Lives Of Mice: What They Are Doing All Day

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Have you ever spotted a tiny visitor scurrying across your kitchen floor and wondered what mice do all day when they’re not startling you during midnight snack runs? At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we’re fascinated by the hidden lives of these small but resourceful creatures. Understanding their daily activities isn’t just interesting—it’s essential knowledge for… Continue reading

The Lifespan Of Mice: How Many Years Do They Live?

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Mice are small creatures that often find their way into our homes, yet few homeowners understand the full picture of mouse lifespan facts. While these tiny rodents may seem like temporary visitors, their life cycles profoundly impact how effectively we manage them in our properties. Just like a stroll through Butchart Gardens reveals layers of… Continue reading

How Many Bats Are In Your Neighbourhood? Are They Common In Ottawa?

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When the sun sets over Parliament Hill, many residents are unaware of the nocturnal activity happening in their neighbourhoods. Bats in Ottawa are more common than most people think, silently providing essential ecological services while we sleep. As wildlife specialists serving the community, we often find homeowners surprised to discover these winged mammals nesting in… Continue reading

What Do Rats Eat? Their Top 5 Favourite Foods

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Rats can be an unwelcome surprise for homeowners, especially when these persistent rodents find their way into your property. As unwelcome as they are, you may still have questions about them, such as “What do rats eat?” The answer might surprise you. These omnivorous opportunists possess remarkably versatile diets that enable them to thrive in… Continue reading

What Draws Bats To Enter Into A House?

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You may have noticed the occasional bat swooping overhead at dusk. But when these nocturnal creatures decide your home is an ideal roosting spot, it can become concerning. Why bats enter homes is a common question we receive at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, especially during certain seasons when activity increases around residential areas. Bats are… Continue reading

How To Keep Raccoons Out Of Your Garbage

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You step outside in the morning and see garbage all over your yard. It’s smelly, messy, and it’s not how you want to start your day. If this happens to you, you’re probably dealing with raccoons. These animals are smart, strong, and always looking for their next meal.  For many homeowners, the question is simple:… Continue reading

Can A Raccoon Be In Your Chimney? The Signs You Need To Know

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Raccoons in your chimney can be an alarming and unwelcome surprise for Ottawa homeowners. When these intelligent and resourceful creatures decide your chimney is an ideal shelter, they can create a host of problems, including strange noises, potential damage, and safety hazards. Recognizing the signs of raccoons in your chimney early is crucial for prompt… Continue reading

Amazing Squirrel Adaptations for Winter Survival

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When the temperature plunges and snow blankets the world outside, squirrels become champions of survival, demonstrating remarkable winter adaptations. But how do these little creatures escape the harsh cold? It turns out, squirrel winter adaptations are a combination of clever behaviours, physical changes, and resourceful habits.  You don’t need to see squirrels to know they’re… Continue reading

When Do Birds Start Migrating South For The Winter?

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As fall’s chill begins to touch the air, many homeowners start noticing changes in avian activity around their properties. Migration timing is a fascinating natural phenomenon that affects our local ecosystem and sometimes our homes. While the autumn departure of certain species might seem like clockwork, the reality of bird migration timing is far more… Continue reading

Why Businesses Need Routine Rat Inspections to Stay Pest-Free

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Imagine walking into your business one morning, only to find tiny droppings in the corner or chew marks on electrical wires. These are clear signs of rats, and their presence can cause serious problems for your business.  Rats aren’t just an annoyance; they threaten your property, reputation, and even the health of your employees and… Continue reading

Urban Squirrels Vs. Forest Squirrels: How Environment Shapes Behaviour

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In the academic oasis of the University of Guelph Arboretum, visitors can observe squirrels behaving much as they have for centuries – foraging for nuts, scaling trees, and interacting with their environment in predictable patterns. Yet just a few kilometres away in Guelph’s downtown core, their urban counterparts display remarkably different behaviours. This stark contrast… Continue reading

When Do Rats Give Birth? Understanding Their Breeding Habits

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Rats are among the most notorious uninvited guests in homes, with their breeding patterns creating significant challenges for homeowners year-round. Just as the iconic Butchart Gardens transform with the seasons, rat populations follow their own reproductive cycles that can quickly turn a single sighting into a full-blown infestation.  At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, our team… Continue reading

Raccoon Behavior: What’s Normal and Signs They Might Be Sick

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Raccoons are fascinating creatures with a range of behaviours and habits that can sometimes leave homeowners wondering whether what they’re observing is normal or cause for concern. Recognizing typical behaviours is essential for residents who frequently encounter these masked visitors near their homes, especially in neighbourhoods close to Butchart Gardens and other green spaces. At… Continue reading

The Adaptability of Rodents: How Mice Can Survive Anywhere

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Have you ever wondered how mice seem to show up just about anywhere? Whether it’s a bustling city, a quiet suburban home, or a rural field, these small animals have a talent for survival that’s nothing short of remarkable.  Mice adaptability is one of nature’s best examples of how animals evolve to thrive in nearly… Continue reading

Bird Feeders: Helping Wildlife or Harming It?

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Have you noticed the flurry of tiny wings at your bird feeder and wondered if it’s making life better for them? It’s a common question, especially here in Ottawa, where so many of us love connecting with nature in our backyards.  Are bird feeders helpful, or are they causing harm? The answer isn’t as simple as… Continue reading

Just How Big Can Bats Actually Get?

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If you’ve ever had a bat fly overhead or discovered one unexpectedly roosting nearby, you might have wondered, how big can bats grow? While most people think of bats as small, fluttering creatures, these fascinating mammals boast an impressive range of sizes and features. From small bats that weigh less than a penny to larger… Continue reading

Ottawa Wildlife Control: How Often Do Skunks Spray?

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Skunks are some of the most misunderstood animals in Ottawa. Many of us know about their stinky defence mechanism, but do we really understand it? If you’ve ever wondered how often skunks spray or why they rely on this smelly tactic, you’re in the right place.  This blog will explore skunk spray frequency, what triggers… Continue reading

Raccoons Invading Your Yard? Should You Try And Scare Them Away?

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If you’ve noticed raccoons in your yard, you’re not alone. These intelligent and curious animals are drawn to areas with easily accessible food, water, and shelter. While their visits may seem harmless at first, they can quickly turn into a nuisance and even a health hazard.  Understandably, you might wonder, “Should I just scare raccoons… Continue reading

Will a Mouse You Release Outside Find Its Way Back In?

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Picture this – you’ve taken steps to humanely release a mouse outside your home, thinking your troubles are over. But the nagging question creeps in: will a mouse return indoors if given the chance? Surprisingly, the answer is often “yes,” due to their strong mouse homing instinct and resilient survival strategies. Understanding mouse release behaviour… Continue reading

Why Do Squirrels Bury Nuts? Our Pros Answer This Common Question.

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Homeowners often marvel at the sheer persistence of squirrels darting across backyards, stuffing their cheeks with food in preparation for winter. Naturally, this leads to curiosity about why do squirrels bury nuts? Their nut-burying behaviour, known as “caching,” is more than just a quirky trait. This action is a carefully developed survival strategy designed to… Continue reading

The Challenges Of Raccoons In Urban Areas

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Raccoons in cities are a common sight these days. They’re smart, adaptable, and, frankly, too comfortable living alongside us humans. But while they might seem harmless at first glance, they bring a lot of problems when they choose to make themselves at home in urban areas. From raiding garbage bins to damaging property, urban raccoon… Continue reading

Noise In Your Walls? How To Know If It Is Mice

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Have you been hearing strange noises coming from your walls lately? It’s not a pleasant thought, but those sounds could be caused by mice. Knowing how to tell if mice are the source of the problem is the first step to keeping your home safe and comfortable. There are several key signs of signs of… Continue reading

Rats In The City: How To Ensure They Don’t End Up In Your Home

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Living in vibrant urban areas, comes with its perks. But one downside of city living is the presence of rodents, particularly rats. These uninvited guests often thrive in urban environments, navigating sewer systems, climbing buildings, and finding food where humans dwell. To make matters worse, dealing with a city rat infestation in your living space… Continue reading

How To Know If Squirrels Are Scoping Out Your Home As A Nesting Ground

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Your home provides warmth, safety, and shelter. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what squirrels look for when searching for a nesting spot. If you notice unusual noises in the attic or find signs of chewing around your property, these could be squirrel nesting signs.  Squirrels nesting in homes can cause property damage, fire risks, and sanitation problems.… Continue reading

How Birds Could Be Putting Your Business At Risk

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If you’ve recently noticed birds gathering around your property, it might be time to pay attention—not just for their beauty but for the numerous risks they bring along. Property damage, health hazards, and costly repairs are just a few of the many challenges these unwelcome visitors can cause. From acidic droppings to blocked ventilation systems,… Continue reading

How Japanese Anime Sparked a Dangerous Love for Pet Raccoons

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Sometimes, a simple TV show can change how people see animals. That’s what happened in Japan in the 1970s when the anime Rascal the Raccoon became a hit. This sweet show about a boy and his pet raccoon made people fall in love with these animals. But this love for anime-inspired pet raccoons turned into a big… Continue reading

Top 5 Ways A Raccoon Could Enter Your Home This Summer

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Raccoons are known for their intelligence and adaptability, qualities that often make them fascinating to observe from a distance. However, when these resourceful creatures decide to explore your home, they can quickly become an unwelcome challenge. With summer upon us, raccoons are more active and may see your property as a potential shelter or source… Continue reading

Is There A Threat Of Rabies In Ottawa? How To Protect Your Home And Family

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When it comes to keeping your family safe, understanding the risks of rabies in our area is important. Is there a rabies threat in Ottawa? The answer, unfortunately, is yes. Rabies cases have been reported in Ontario, and Ottawa is no exception. While it’s not something you’re likely to encounter daily, the potential still exists,… Continue reading

New Rabies Cases In Hamilton Have Health Officials Concerned

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Hamilton continues to face a growing challenge with rabies. Health officials recently confirmed a rabid bat in the area, marking the first case in months. This adds to the existing outbreak in raccoons and skunks, with 330 animals testing positive over the past nine years. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we understand the concerns this… Continue reading

How Raccoons Adapt to Urban Environments and What That Means for Homeowners

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Raccoons have become common residents in urban neighbourhoods like Ottawa, thriving in cities thanks to easy access to food, shelter, and few predators. These smart animals have adapted well to city life, but their presence can cause problems for homeowners. From digging through garbage to nesting in attics or walls, raccoons have learned how to… Continue reading

Squirrel-Proof Storage Ideas for Your Attic and Garage

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When it comes to keeping your home organized, having an attic or garage for storage is a lifesaver. But before you stash away your holiday decorations or important family heirlooms, it’s crucial to ensure your storage spaces are secure—especially against squirrels. Squirrels can easily find their way into attics and garages, where they cause significant… Continue reading

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