Bill Dowd, Author at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control - Part 7
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

Toronto Wildlife Control: Key Signs of Rats in Your Home

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Spotting the signs of a rat infestation early is crucial for maintaining a safe and clean home. Rats can cause significant damage and pose serious health risks to you and your family. Understanding what attracts rats to a house is the first step in preventing an infestation.  Common attractants include food scraps, pet food left… Continue reading

Winter in Durham: Do Raccoons Hibernate?

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If you live in or near an active raccoon habitat, chances are you’ve had more than your fair share of raccoon menaces. Nature’s naturally outfitted bandits are true to their name, and if you’ve ever had to deal with them during the winter when you expect most animals to be laying low, you know exactly… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: How Far Do Skunks Spray?

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When it comes to Toronto wildlife control, understanding the behaviour of skunks is crucial. These nocturnal animals are notorious for their powerful spray, which they use as a defence mechanism. If you’ve encountered a skunk, you might wonder how far can a skunk spray?  Skunks can spray up to ten feet with remarkable accuracy, making… Continue reading

Scarborough Wildlife Control: Why are There Bats Around my House?

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Bats, often considered elusive creatures of the dusk, have been spotted with surprising regularity in suburban landscapes, compelling homeowners to seek wildlife removal in Scarborough. Their sudden presence around your house is typically not random; these winged mammals are drawn to the quiet and safety of dark, undisturbed areas for their roosts. Sometimes, their instinctual… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: How do Raccoons Prepare For Winter

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When winter approaches, wildlife in Toronto begins to prepare for the cold months ahead. Raccoons, in particular, are known for their clever strategies to survive the harsh conditions. Contrary to popular belief, raccoons do not hibernate in winter. Instead, they go through a period of reduced activity, relying on the fat they stored during the… Continue reading

Pickering Wildlife Removal: How Do You Get a Skunk to Leave?

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Imagine stepping out into your backyard, a cup of coffee in hand, ready to enjoy a peaceful morning only to be greeted by a pungent aroma that’s unmistakably skunk. It’s becoming an all-too-common scenario in homes, with a skunk under the porch or in your yard. This uninvited guest disrupts the serene atmosphere but also… Continue reading

Raising Awareness: The Importance of Humane Raccoon Control Methods in Etobicoke

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Often, residents find themselves sharing their urban space with a particularly clever and mischievous neighbour: the raccoon. These nocturnal visitors are known for their exceptional adaptability, thriving in both rural and urban areas, which often leads to conflicts with human inhabitants.  From overturned garbage bins to damaged gardens, raccoon damage is a common grievance in… Continue reading

Top 5 Signs That Indicate a Mouse Infestation in Your Bowmanville Home

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Imagine the unnerving sensation that comes with discovering you’re not alone in your own home. Signs of mice infestation can be subtle, yet the implications for your living space in Bowmanville are significant. A clue as distinguishable as a musty odour, which mice detest, often goes unnoticed. This particular scent, pervasive and unpleasant, is a… Continue reading

Guano Gone: How Skedaddle Can Help Safely Clean Your Whitby Home After a Bat Infestation

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Discovering a flittering frenzy of bats has turned your Whitby home into their personal residence can be unnerving, to say the least. Addressing this wildlife confrontation demands expertise that respects the fine balance between human homes and natural habitats. Skedaddle offers expert wildlife control in Whitby, offering a professional and humane approach to reestablishing your… Continue reading

Squirrel-Proofing Your Ajax Property: Expert Advice on Sealing Entry Points

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Residents of Ajax are no strangers to the charming but often troublesome presence of squirrels in their neighbourhoods. These agile creatures, while delightful to observe in their natural habitat, can become a significant nuisance when they find their way into our homes and properties.  Squirrel invasions not only pose a risk to the integrity of… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: Why Are Birds Nesting in My Gutters?

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Birds nesting in gutters is a common issue for many homeowners in Toronto. It’s important to understand where birds nest and why they choose these spots. Gutters provide a safe space, shielded from predators and the elements, making them ideal for nesting. However, these nests can cause blockages, leading to water damage and other problems. … Continue reading

What Are Common Home Entry Points for Squirrels

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Squirrels may be adorable creatures when observed from a distance, but their determination to invade your home can quickly turn into a significant concern. With their agile bodies and remarkable climbing skills, these little acrobats can exploit common entry points into attics, garages, and even basements. Gaps around soffits, torn screens, and holes left by… Continue reading

Exploring Squirrel Homes in Trees and Your Toronto Home

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Squirrels are a common sight in Toronto, often seen scampering up trees or darting across parks. But have you ever wondered, where do squirrels live?  These agile creatures typically build their nests, known as dreys, in the forks of tree branches using twigs, leaves, and other natural materials. However, when natural habitats become limited, squirrels… Continue reading

Oshawa Wildlife Removal: Why Are There Bats Around My House?

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Discovering bats around your home can be an unsettling experience for many homeowners in Oshawa, sparking curiosity and concern about why these nocturnal creatures are drawn to their property. Often, the presence of bats indicates accessible entry points that allow them to roost and form nests within the quieter, undisturbed parts of your house. Skedaddle… Continue reading

Mississauga Wildlife Control: What Attracts Raccoons to Your Home?

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Raccoons have a notorious reputation for paying unwelcome visits to residential areas, especially in regions like Mississauga. Understanding what attracts raccoons to your home is crucial in addressing and preventing these smart and often mischievous creatures from becoming unwanted tenants. These nocturnal mammals are drawn to accessible food sources, ranging from unsecured garbage bins to… Continue reading

Kitchener Wildlife Control: Where do Robins Build Nests?

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With spring’s arrival, the familiar red-breasted robin returns, filling the air with their cheery song and dynamic presence. These common birds are known for their resourceful nesting habits. Robins build nests in locations that provide a blend of safety and convenience: tree branches, hidden within dense shrubs, or even on ledges under eaves. It is… Continue reading

Oakville Wildlife Control: Efforts that Protect Endangered Bird Species

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Nestled in the vibrant ecosystem of the Oakville area, a quiet but critical battle is being waged to safeguard the future of endangered bird species. From the red-headed woodpecker to the piping plover, many regional birds face threats that jeopardize their survival. Protecting these vulnerable species is not just a matter of environmental responsibility—it’s a… Continue reading

Niagara Wildlife Control: Effective Methods To Mouse-Proof Your Kitchen

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Mice may be small, but they can create big problems in your kitchen. From gnawing on wires to contaminating food, these unwelcome guests can spread disease and cause significant damage. Mice have a notorious habit of chewing through electrical wires, which not only disrupts your appliances but also poses a serious fire hazard. Their relentless… Continue reading

Montreal Wildlife Control: What Season are Bats Most Active?

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Every year, as the seasons change, the activity of bats becomes a pressing concern for homeowners and businesses alike. In Montreal, understanding the timing of bat removal is crucial for effective wildlife control in Montreal.  Bats typically come out of hibernation in the spring, but their activity peaks during the summer months. Knowing exactly when… Continue reading

Ottawa Wildlife Control: How long do Squirrels Live?

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Understanding the squirrel lifespan is important for effective wildlife removal in Ottawa. These small mammals typically live around six to twelve years in the wild, but their lifespans can be significantly shorter due to predators, disease, and environmental factors. If you find a squirrel nest on your property, it’s crucial to contact Skedaddle’s professionals. We… Continue reading

Hamilton Wildlife Control: Do Raccoons Nest in Trees?

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When it comes to understanding where raccoons live, it’s important to know that these adaptable creatures can make their homes in a variety of places. Unlike other wildlife, raccoons are comfortable in both urban and rural settings. They often find comfort in attics, chimneys, and even under decks.  However, it’s not uncommon for them to… Continue reading

Durham Wildlife Control: Do Bats Come out in the Fall?

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Bats are a common sight in Durham, and understanding their behaviour can help residents stay informed about these fascinating creatures. During the fall, they are often seen becoming more active as they prepare for the colder months. This change in bat behaviour is important to note, especially if you are concerned about potential infestations.  Bats… Continue reading

When Can Bats be Removed in Mississauga?

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Bats becoming uninvited guests in homes is more common than one might think. These nocturnal creatures, while playing a crucial role in our ecosystem, often find their way into residential areas, looking for a cozy corner to call home. Unfortunately, when bats nest in houses, they can cause structural damage and pose health risks. Our… Continue reading

Waterloo Wildlife Control: The Omnivorous Diet of Raccoons and Its Impact

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If you’ve ever spotted those masked bandits rummaging through your trash at night, you know just how clever raccoons can be. These adaptable creatures thrive in all sorts of environments, from the wild forests to busy city streets, and it’s no different here in Waterloo. Their secret? An omnivorous diet that lets them eat just… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: Landscaping Tips To Avoid a Squirrel Infestation

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Squirrels, with their relentless curiosity and nimble movements, can quickly become a challenge for homeowners seeking to maintain a pristine garden. As experts in wildlife removal in Toronto, our Skedaddle professionals understand the importance of proactive measures to avoid a squirrel infestation.  Implementing effective landscaping strategies is crucial in keeping squirrels away from your property.… Continue reading

Montreal Wildlife Removal: Where Do Rats Build Their Nests?

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Rats are known for their resourcefulness and adaptability, often making them unwelcome guests in urban environments. In a city like Montreal, these rodents frequently seek shelter in various locations that offer safety and warmth.  Understanding why rats make nests is essential for effective rat removal in Montreal. Typically, they build their nests in places that… Continue reading

Ottawa Wildlife Removal: How Harmful Is Bat Guano To Humans?

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Bats are essential to our ecosystem, yet their presence in residential and commercial spaces can pose significant health risks. One of the most concerning issues is the accumulation of guano, which can lead to severe health implications if not properly managed.  In this blog post, our Skedaddle experts explore the dangers of bat guano, shedding… Continue reading

Skunks In Hamilton: Tips for Peaceful Coexistence

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Living in Hamilton means you’ll occasionally share your space with local wildlife, including skunks. Getting to know these creatures is the first step towards creating a harmonious environment. Skunks are nocturnal and often look for quiet, hidden spots like under decks, sheds, and porches to call home. These adaptable mammals have a distinct presence, making… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Removal: What Can A Raccoon Not Eat?

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Understanding the dietary restrictions of raccoons is essential for anyone dealing with wildlife removal in Toronto. Raccoons are known for their opportunistic feeding habits, consuming almost anything they come across. However, there are specific items these animals cannot digest or are repelled by, which is useful information for homeowners and property managers.  The knowledge of… Continue reading

Niagara Wildlife Removal: Benefits and Drawbacks of Having Squirrels in Your Garden

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Squirrels darting through the foliage and playfully chasing each other around the trees is a common and charming sight in many Niagara gardens. These energetic creatures can bring life and animation to your outdoor space, embodying the vibrant spirit of local wildlife. Yet, as enchanting as they are, squirrels hold the dual role of being… Continue reading

Oakville Wildlife Removal: What Attracts Skunks to Your Yard?

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Skunks, with their unmistakable striped coats and potent defence mechanisms, often find themselves ambling through urban landscapes like Oakville, searching for shelter and sustenance. At the intersection of human habitation and the wild, wildlife removal in Oakville becomes an essential service to maintain harmony and safety. The arrival of these black and white creatures in… Continue reading

The Role of Squirrels in Forest Regeneration: Beyond the Nut Burial

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You might think of squirrels as just cute little nut-buriers, but they actually play a crucial role in keeping our forests healthy. These busy creatures do a lot for the ecosystems they live in, helping trees grow and maintaining the overall health of the forest. By looking at their diet, we can see how squirrels… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Removal: What Diseases Do Rats Carry That Can Affect Humans?

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Rats are more than just unwelcome pests; they pose significant health risks to humans through the diseases they can carry. For homeowners dealing with infestations, understanding what diseases rats carry is crucial for protecting their health and well-being.  These rodents are known carriers of harmful pathogens that can lead to severe illnesses. In urban areas… Continue reading

What Does A Bat Infestation Sound Like?

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Imagine sitting quietly in your living room, late at night. What’s that faint rustling you hear above the ceiling? Maybe a soft, high-pitched squeaking as if something tiny and unseen is communicating.  Knowing what a bat infestation sounds like is crucial for early detection and action. Often, you might hear high-pitched squeaking or fluttering noises,… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Removal: Urban Birds and How They Adapt

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Urban environments present unique challenges and opportunities for wildlife, particularly birds. In Toronto, the need for wildlife removal services has increased as these adaptable creatures find innovative ways to thrive amidst human activity.  Birds have developed remarkable strategies to survive and flourish, capitalizing on available resources and altering their behaviours to fit their surroundings. From… Continue reading

Mississauga Wildlife Control: What are Squirrels Doing in Summer?

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As the warm sun beckons at the onset of summer months, not only do we find ourselves drawn to the outdoors, but so do the animated and often mischievous inhabitants of our backyards – the squirrels. Their behaviour takes a fascinating turn come summertime.  This season is a bustling period of activity for them, marked… Continue reading

Kitchener Wildlife Control: Squirrel-Proofing Your Bird Feeder

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Hey bird lovers! If you’ve ever set up a bird feeder, you know that one of the biggest challenges isn’t just attracting birds but also keeping those pesky squirrels away. These nimble little acrobats often turn your bird feeders into their personal buffet, munching away at the food meant for our feathered friends. Not only… Continue reading

Niagara Wildlife Control: The Diet of Mice is More Than Just Cheese

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You know those cute cartoon moments where mice are always after cheese? Well, real-life mice have a taste for way more than just cheese. These little critters are quite the opportunists and will munch on a variety of foods, especially grains, fruits, and seeds. This means their diet is a lot more diverse than we… Continue reading

Oakville Wildlife Control: What Should You Not Feed Squirrels?

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Wildlife encounters can be delightful until they start happening in your own backyard. Squirrels, with their fluffy tails and playful behaviour, often charm homeowners. However, having these creatures around also means finding a way to balance nature with suburban life. While feeding them might seem like a harmless activity, wildlife removal experts in Oakville recommend… Continue reading

Ottawa Wildlife Removal: Can You Get Sick From Cleaning Up Rat Droppings?

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Dealing with rat removal in Ottawa requires not just professional expertise but also a clear understanding of the risks associated with exposure to rat droppings. It’s important to recognize that rat poop can be dangerous, potentially leading to serious health complications if not handled properly.  Rat droppings can harbour harmful pathogens and allergens that may… Continue reading

Montreal Wildlife Removal: Identifying and Managing Raccoon Latrines in Your Yard

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When it comes to wildlife removal in Montreal, understanding the habits and behaviours of local animals is essential for maintaining a safe and sanitary environment. One common issue faced by homeowners is encountering raccoon droppings in their yards, which can pose significant health risks due to the presence of bacteria and parasites.  Properly identifying and… Continue reading

Hamilton Wildlife Removal: What Does A Mouse Nest Look Like?

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Understanding how to identify and manage mouse infestations is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy environment. In this article, our Skedaddle experts focus on wildlife removal in Hamilton, specifically detailing what a mouse nest looks like and providing essential tips on how to keep mice away from your property.  Recognizing the signs of a… Continue reading

Durham Wildlife Removal: Do Mice Mate for Life?

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Understanding the behaviour of mice is crucial for effective wildlife removal in Durham. One of the most intriguing aspects of these small creatures is their mating habits. Contrary to popular belief, mice do not mate for life; instead, they are known for their high reproductive rates and frequent mating cycles.  This knowledge is essential for… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: What Time Of Day Are You Most Likely To See A Raccoon?

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If you’re dealing with raccoons in Toronto, understanding their behavior is key to effective wildlife removal. These fascinating creatures are known for their adaptability and nighttime habits. They’re most active after sunset and just before dawn, so seeing them during the day is rare, but not impossible. Although they don’t hibernate, raccoons do slow down… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: How Can You Discourage Bats From Roosting On Your Porch?

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Bats are an integral part of our ecosystem, but when they choose your porch as their roosting spot, it can become a significant issue. Understanding how to prevent bats from roosting on your porch is essential for maintaining a safe and clean environment around your home.  At Skedaddle, we specialize in bat removal in Toronto,… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: Did you Know a Greek God is Associated with a Mouse?

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Mice might be small, but their impact on our lives and homes is surprisingly significant. Interestingly, the ancient Greeks associated these creatures with Apollo, the god of music, prophecy and healing. This unique connection adds a layer of intrigue to what might otherwise seem like a mundane issue.  Skedaddle often deals with such pests, ensuring… Continue reading

Toronto Wildlife Control: Conservation Challenges Facing Squirrel Populations

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Toronto is a vibrant city bustling with all kinds of wildlife, and it turns out, squirrels are a big part of that scene. As the city grows and builds, managing these energetic little creatures gets trickier. Getting rid of squirrels in a humane way is super important to keep both our homes and the wildlife… Continue reading

The Role of Food Storage in Preventing Mouse Infestations

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If you’ve ever had the displeasure of discovering unwelcome guests in your kitchen, you’re not alone. Mice infestations are a common problem for homeowners and can cause significant damage to both property and health.  To keep mice away, it’s crucial to store food in sturdy, airtight containers and regularly clean any spills or crumbs that… Continue reading

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