Bill Dowd, Author at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control - Part 6
Bill Dowd

About the author: Bill Dowd is the Founder, President and CEO of Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, a company he launched in 1989 with a mission to provide homeowners with humane, effective wildlife solutions. A graduate of Brock University with a Bachelor of Physical Education in Teaching and Coaching, Bill also played professional hockey with the New York Islanders from 1983 to 1985. His leadership, discipline and strong community values laid the foundation for building a business focused on making a meaningful local impact. Starting from his childhood bedroom in Hamilton, Ontario — with his mother as his first receptionist — Bill grew Skedaddle from a one-man operation into an industry leader. Recognizing early on that trapping and relocating wildlife was neither humane nor effective long-term, he pioneered prevention-focused solutions homeowners could trust. Today, Skedaddle continues to be guided by Bill’s original mission: delivering compassionate service built on integrity and trust.

Connect with the author via: LinkedIn

Kitchener Wildlife Removal: The Environmental Impact of Mice

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Mice, those small yet fascinating creatures, have made themselves at home in both urban and rural environments, often going unnoticed until their presence becomes a nuisance. Their adaptability to various habitats allows them to thrive in gardens, basements, and attics, where they seek food and shelter.  While mice play a natural role in the ecosystem—contributing… Continue reading

Niagara Wildlife Removal: Protecting Your Pets from Skunk Encounters

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As the sun begins to set and the warm evenings beckon, it’s essential to ensure that our beloved pets are safe from potential skunk encounters. Protecting pets from skunks is not just about avoiding a smelly mishap; it’s about safeguarding their well-being and ensuring that their outdoor adventures remain joyful and carefree.  Proactive measures, such… Continue reading

Oakville Wildlife Removal: Lifecycle of a Mouse From Birth, Growth, and Survival Strategies

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Understanding the lifecycle of a mouse—from its humble beginnings as a tiny, helpless newborn to a fully-grown adult adept at navigating its environment—is crucial not only for wildlife enthusiasts but also for homeowners looking to manage wildlife presence effectively. Mice are incredibly resilient creatures with fascinating growth strategies and survival tactics that allow them to… Continue reading

Raccoon Smarts: Their Problem-Solving and Adaptability

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Raccoons have always fascinated us with their distinct appearance and mischievous behaviour. These nocturnal animals, with their masked faces and dexterous forepaws, have become internet sensations, stealing our hearts through countless memes and viral videos. But there’s more to these animals than just their antics; raccoons possess remarkable intelligence and adaptability.  In this blog post,… Continue reading

How Skunks Adapt to the Changing Seasons

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As the seasons shift, so too do the habits and behaviours of various wildlife, including the elusive skunk. These fascinating creatures have developed unique adaptations to navigate the challenges presented by changing weather patterns and food availability. By examining their seasonal behaviours, we gain insight into their survival strategies, enabling us to foster a better… Continue reading

Durham Wildlife Removal: Why Do Raccoons Raid Garbage Cans?

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Raccoons have become an all too familiar sight rummaging through garbage cans across Durham, leaving behind a trail of scattered trash and mischief. Their nocturnal adventures lead them to our bins, where they are irresistibly drawn to the rich variety of food scraps and scents, instinctively searching for a quick meal. This behaviour results not… Continue reading

Protect Your Pantry: Expert Wildlife Control Tips to Keep Rats Out in Toronto

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Discovering uninvited rodents in your home can be more than just an unpleasant surprise; it can be a sign of a larger issue lurking within your walls. If you’ve encountered the telltale signs of a rat invasion, knowing how to get rid of rats becomes an immediate necessity to protect your pantry and peace of… Continue reading

Understanding Raccoons Complex Social Structures

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Raccoons have become a common sight, captivating residents with their nimble hands and distinctive masks. These nighttime animals often rummage through gardens, tip over bins, and sometimes show up unexpectedly in attics. To manage wildlife effectively and live peacefully with these clever creatures, it’s important to understand their complex social structures. Raccoons are not the… Continue reading

Scarborough Wildlife Removal: What are Mice Doing When You Hear Scratching?

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The unsettling sound of scratching within the walls of your home can transform the comfort of your living space into a source of anxiety overnight. For many homeowners, this noise is a common yet unnerving experience, often leaving them wondering about the unseen visitors lurking in their homes.  At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we understand… Continue reading

5 Useful Tips to Keep Skunks Away in Pickering

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Battling with a skunk infestation can be a challenging ordeal for any resident. Understanding what attracts skunks to your property is the first step in implementing effective strategies to keep skunks away. These nocturnal visitors seek out food, shelter, and a safe breeding ground, which means your backyard might just be the perfect haven for… Continue reading

Social Structures in Bat Colonies: Communication and Cooperation

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Bats live in a world that is quite different from ours, yet they share many social behaviours with us. They are highly social animals that form intricate colonies, sometimes numbering in the thousands. These colonies are not just random gatherings; they have distinct social structures that help them survive and thrive. Understanding these social structures… Continue reading

Inside a Mouse‘s Home: Understanding Their Nesting Habits and Maintenance

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Have you ever wondered what it’s like inside a mouse’s home? These small creatures are fascinating not only because of their survival instincts but also due to their intricate nesting habits. For homeowners and property owners, understanding these habits is crucial. This knowledge can help safeguard your property against potential infestations and the damage that… Continue reading

Bowmanville Wildlife Removal: Squirrel Navigation Skills

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Isn’t it fascinating how squirrels manage to navigate the bustling cityscape of Bowmanville with such ease? Their impressive acrobatics and resourcefulness never fail to catch our eye, making us wonder what role these furry adventurers play in our environment. But what happens when their curiosity leads them into our homes? You might find yourself asking,… Continue reading

Whitby Wildlife Control: How Do Squirrels Remember Where They Stored Food?

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Scurrying across the lush parks and bustling backyards of Whitby, squirrels are a common and captivating sight. These agile rodents are not just known for their hilarious antics but also for an intriguing behaviour that puzzles many: their meticulous practice of storing food. As winter approaches, these furry foragers are seen bustling around, burying nuts… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Removal: What do Squirrels Hate the Most?

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Squirrels, with their bushy tails and playful nature, might be a delightful sight in the parks of Toronto, but when they decide to make your attic their new playground, the narrative swiftly changes.  These agile creatures have a knack for turning quiet residential spaces into their personal acrobatic arenas, often leading to sleepless nights for… Continue reading

Do Bats Nest in the Same Spot Every Year?

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Many people assume that bats are creatures of habit, settling down in the same spot each year to raise their young. However, this common misconception doesn’t capture the full truth about bat nesting habits. While some species may return to similar locations, it’s not a guarantee that they will nest in the exact same spot… Continue reading

Why You Should Use Copper Wool In Your Mouse Exclusion Protocol

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If you’ve noticed tiny, uninvited guests scurrying around your home, you’re not alone. Many homeowners deal with mouse infestations, particularly in regions where wildlife is abundant. Today, we’re going to talk about a preventative method of keeping these little intruders out of your living spaces—using copper wool in your mouse exclusion protocol. Mice may be… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Removal: Where Do Raccoons Set Up A Den?

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Raccoons, with their distinctive black-masked faces and bushy tails, have shown remarkable adaptability to urban environments, especially in areas like Toronto. These clever creatures have mastered the art of navigating city landscapes, turning our neighbourhoods into their playgrounds. Their ability to adapt is not just a testament to their intelligence but also highlights the growing… Continue reading

Oshawa Wildlife Control: Insights into Raccoon Dens and Mating Cycles

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Raccoons are interesting animals that often grab the attention and worry of homeowners. Knowing about their lifestyle, especially their dens and mating cycles is key for anyone curious about humane wildlife control. Raccoons usually set up shop in all sorts of spots, from hollow trees and old burrows to city spaces like attics and chimneys.… Continue reading

Mississauga Wildlife Removal: The Role of Birds in Ecosystems

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Birds play essential roles in our ecosystems, contributing to the balance and health of our environment. For homeowners, understanding these roles can deepen your appreciation for the feathered visitors that frequent your garden or backyard. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of birds in ecosystems, highlight some common birds found in Mississauga,… Continue reading

Waterloo Wildlife Control: What Is An Undetected Bat Bite?

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Bats are often seen fluttering through the skies of both urban and rural areas around Waterloo, a testament to their adaptability and resilience. These remarkable creatures thrive in various habitats, from city parks and attics to wooded areas, making them a common sight for residents. However, as delightful as they may be to observe, the… Continue reading

When Skunks Become Neighbours: Navigating Urban Skunk Populations in Oakville

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As the sun sets over Oakville, urban residents may find themselves sharing their surroundings with some unexpected nocturnal neighbours: skunks. With the local skunk population on the rise and urban expansion pushing wildlife closer to human habitats, encounters are becoming more frequent.  For many, a skunk sighting often elicits a mix of curiosity and concern,… Continue reading

Why Raccoons Are Attracted to Urban Areas: The Role of Garbage and Food Sources

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As the sun sets over urban landscapes like Niagara, the curious raccoon emerges from the shadows, drawn by the glow of streetlights and the tantalizing aroma of discarded food. These clever animals, often dubbed “urban adapters,” have found an abundance of opportunities within city settings, thriving amidst human activity. The allure of easy access to… Continue reading

Taking a Look at the Daily Activities of Raccoons

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Raccoons, with their striking facial masks and dexterous paws, embody the spirit of adaptability and intelligence in the animal kingdom. These nocturnal creatures have unearthed the art of survival, thriving in diverse environments, from urban landscapes to wooded areas. Their daily activities showcase a fascinating routine that involves foraging for food, playing, and establishing intricate… Continue reading

Why Are So Many Sparrows Flying Around Your Home?

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Ever wondered why you see so many sparrows around your home? This small bird, officially known as the house sparrow, has a unique relationship with humans that dates back centuries. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet rural area, sparrows seem to be everywhere. Their adaptability and close association with human habitats… Continue reading

What Do Different Bat Species Eat?

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Welcome to an exploration of the fascinating diets of various bat species! While bats are often misunderstood creatures, they play an essential role in maintaining our ecosystems. For homeowners and property owners, understanding what these nocturnal animals eat can offer insight into their behaviour and how they interact with the environment around us. Whether you… Continue reading

Hamilton Wildlife Control: The Secret Life of a Squirrel’s Social Structure

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Squirrels, with their frantic dashes across streets and acrobatic feats in our backyards, are as much a part of Hamilton’s backdrop as the landmarks themselves. These fascinating creatures, often seen but seldom truly observed, carry within them a complex world of social interactions and behaviours that intrigue and puzzle us.  Their secret life, especially the… Continue reading

The Hidden World of Mice: Uncovering Their Daily Habits and Behaviours

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Mice are often seen as mere nuisances, yet they represent a hidden world brimming with fascinating habits and behaviours that go largely unnoticed in our homes and businesses throughout Durham. With their quick movements and innate ability to adapt, these small creatures have found ways to coexist alongside us, often under the radar. Daily, they… Continue reading

Ottawa Wildlife Removal: Keeping Rodents Away During the Colder Months

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When the temperatures drop, it’s common to see an increase in rodent activity as mice seek warmth and shelter. Understanding how mice get into a house is crucial for effective mouse control. These tiny pests can squeeze through openings as small as a dime, making it easy for them to infiltrate your home through gaps… Continue reading

Why Are Raccoons Attracted to My Toronto Home?

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If you’ve noticed the pitter-patter of tiny feet on your roof or found your trash cans mysteriously overturned, you might be dealing with a raccoon intrusion. These clever animals are often drawn to urban areas like Toronto in search of food and shelter.  Raccoons are extremely adaptable and can easily enter homes through chimneys, attics,… Continue reading

Montreal Wildlife Removal: Why Are Squirrels Going Crazy in the Fall?

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Fall is a busy time for squirrels, and their erratic behaviour often leaves Montreal residents scratching their heads. As temperatures drop, these small animals become more active, scurrying about in search of food and shelter. This heightened activity can lead to an increase in sightings and interactions with humans. For anyone dealing with these bushy-tailed… Continue reading

Hamilton Wildlife Removal: Managing Nuisance Birds in Residential and Commercial Areas

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Birds can be beautiful to watch, but they can also become a real problem when they invade your property. Whether it’s a residential or commercial area, unwanted birds can cause damage and create health hazards.  Understanding how to get rid of birds is essential for maintaining a safe and clean environment. Skedaddle’s experts in bird… Continue reading

Waterloo Wildlife Control: Should I Put up a Bat House?

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Bats, the silent guardians of the night sky, play a pivotal role in our ecosystems but can cause unease when they get too close to our homes. Dealing with unwelcome winged guests often leaves homeowners in Waterloo puzzled over wildlife removal strategies. Before resorting to professional services, understanding how bats get into your house is… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Removal: Why Do Mice Invade Homes in the Fall?

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When the temperature drops in the fall, mice start seeking warmth and shelter indoors, making your home an attractive target. Understanding why mice invade homes in the fall is crucial for effective mouse removal in Toronto. These small rodents are looking for food and a safe place to nest, and your home offers both.  Once… Continue reading

Mississauga Wildlife Removal: What Does a Skunk Den Look Like?

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In the suburban sprawl where nature meets civilization, Skedaddle’s services for wildlife removal in Mississauga become essential for maintaining harmony between humans and animals. Among the various creatures, skunks are known for their distinctive aroma and their ability to make themselves at home in urban areas. Understanding what attracts skunks is the first step in… Continue reading

Niagara Wildlife Control: Why are Birds Targetting My House?

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Waking up to the sounds of birds may seem idyllic to some, but when these birds start targeting your home, it becomes a nuisance that requires professional help. Your home might unknowingly offer ideal conditions for birds, such as shelter and food. Identifying what attracts them is crucial, and Skedaddle’s wildlife removal services in Niagara… Continue reading

Oakville Wildlife Control: Understanding Raccoon Smarts and Problem-Solving Secrets

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Raccoons often get a bad rap as pesky nighttime intruders rummaging through our trash. But did you know these masked creatures are actually quite smart, with problem-solving skills that can rival some primates? Yes, raccoons are incredibly clever, navigating the urban jungle with an impressive level of dexterity and cunning that has left both scientists… Continue reading

Durham Wildlife Removal: Dangers of a Birds Nest in your Furnace Ducts

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When birds decide to make a home in your furnace ducts, it’s more than just a minor inconvenience—it can be a serious hazard to both your home and health. Birds’ nests can block proper airflow, leading to poor heating efficiency and even fire risks. Additionally, the presence of birds and their nests can introduce harmful… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Removal: When do Bats Mate?

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Bats are fascinating creatures that play a crucial role in our ecosystem. However, they can become a problem when they decide to roost in your home. Understanding when bats have babies is essential for effective and humane removal.  Bats typically mate in late summer or early fall, but they delay fertilization until spring. This results… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: Understanding Squirrels Gnawing Behaviour

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Squirrels are fascinating creatures that often find their way into our urban environments. Understanding their gnawing behaviour is essential for anyone interested in understanding wildlife and maintaining a peaceful coexistence. Learning squirrel facts can help us understand why they chew and what attracts them to specific areas.  For those looking to create a safe environment,… Continue reading

Kitchener Wildlife Removal: How did Mice Get Inside My Home So Quickly?

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Discovering mice in the house can be an unsettling realization for any homeowner. It often prompts the immediate concern: how did these uninvited guests find their way inside so quickly? The answer lies in the remarkable dexterity and determination of these small rodents. Mice possess the uncanny ability to detect the faintest whisper of warmth… Continue reading

Mississauga Wildlife Control: What is the Origin of Mice?

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Mice, often uninvited guests in our homes, boast a history as ancient and intricate as any tale of nature’s survivors. Originating from the grasslands of Asia, these adaptable creatures have scurried their way across the globe, thriving alongside human civilization. Recognizing the signs of mice infestation is critical for homeowners aiming to uphold the sanctity… Continue reading

Oakville Wildlife Control: How Bats See with Sound

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During the quiet night sky in Oakville, a fascinating display of nature unfolds as bats take to the skies. These nocturnal creatures have perfected an extraordinary method of navigation and hunting that does not rely on the light of day.  Instead, bats “see” with sound through a process known as echolocation, a remarkable ability that… Continue reading

Niagara Wildlife Control: Raccoon Communication and Body Language

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Understanding the nuanced behaviours and communication tactics of raccoons is more than a matter of curiosity for homeowners; it is essential for cohabiting peacefully with these ubiquitous neighbourhood denizens. From their distinctive masked visages to their nimble fingers, raccoons convey a wide array of intentions and emotions through their body language and vocalizations. Recognizing these… Continue reading

Ottawa Wildlife Removal: How Big Do Raccoons Get?

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Ottawa is home to a wide range of wildlife, but among the most common visitors to urban areas are raccoons. These intelligent animals are known for their adaptability and curiosity, making them frequent guests in neighbourhoods.  For residents dealing with raccoons, Skedaddle offers services for wildlife control in Ottawa to manage these encounters safely and… Continue reading

Montreal Wildlife Removal: Top Tips to Prevent a Raccoon Problem in Autumn

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When the leaves start to change, it’s a good time to think about wildlife control. These clever animals are looking for warm places to spend the colder months, but unlike some animals, raccoons do not truly hibernate. Instead, they find cozy spots to sleep through the worst weather.  Understanding that raccoons are active even in… Continue reading

Hamilton Wildlife Control: Why do Squirrels Suddenly Stop?

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Understanding squirrel behaviour can be vital when you notice these agile creatures suddenly coming to a halt. This fascinating phenomenon often puzzles homeowners and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Squirrels, known for their quick movements and playful antics, might stop abruptly due to several reasons, including sensing predators, searching for food, or simply being cautious.  By gaining… Continue reading

Durham Wildlife Control: What are Raccoons Related To?

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When it comes to wildlife removal, understanding what you’re dealing with is key. Raccoons are fascinating creatures, often found in urban and suburban areas, and knowing a few raccoon facts can help you better understand these nocturnal visitors.  They belong to the Procyonidae family, making them relatives to animals like the ringtail and coati. These… Continue reading

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