Chris Grabas, Author at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control
chrisg

About the author: Chris Grabas obtained his DEC in Industrial Electronics 2003 from Vanier College, and his DEC in Environmental & Wildlife Management (formerly Ecological Technology) from Vanier College 2007. He has been a National Canadian Soccer Referee since 2010, won the 2010 Referee Builder Award for Bourassa Region.

Connect with the author via: LinkedIn

Rat Complaints Are Rising in Montreal: Could Construction Be Driving Them Into Backyards?

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Construction activity in Montreal is one of the biggest reasons rat complaints are going up across the city. When digging, sewer work, and demolition break up the underground spaces these animals live in, they scatter. And when they scatter, they head to the nearest safe spot — which is often your backyard, your garage, or… Continue reading

Night Shift in the Neighbourhood: What Nocturnal Wildlife Is Doing While You Sleep

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While you sleep, your neighbourhood comes alive. Raccoons are tipping over garbage bins, mice are squeezing through gaps in your walls, bats are swooping through the night sky, and skunks are digging up your lawn. These creatures are active, busy, and looking for food and shelter and your home may be exactly what they’re looking… Continue reading

Why Summer Is Baby Season for Wildlife And What That Means for Homeowners

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Summer is baby season for wildlife because warm weather, longer days, and lots of food make it the best time for young animals to grow strong. This timing is not random. Many things line up at once during these months, making summer the busiest time of year for new wildlife families. For homeowners, this means… Continue reading

Rats in Commercial Kitchens: Risks, Consequences, and Prevention

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You might wonder about the risks and consequences of commercial kitchen rats. The main risks include the spread of severe diseases, major structural damage to your building, and the total loss of your hard-earned business reputation. Finding a rat in your food service area can lead to quick health department shutdowns and expensive fines. You… Continue reading

Why Your Garage Is the #1 Weak Spot for Wildlife Intrusions

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In many Montreal homes, the garage is one of the most heavily used yet least protected areas of the property. It is where we store vehicles, seasonal equipment, tools, and often items that do not fit inside the main living space. However, this convenience also makes it one of the most common starting points for… Continue reading

The Rise of “Wildlife-Friendly” Cities—And What It Means for Homeowners

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You might see more animals in your neighbourhood today. The rise of wildlife-friendly cities means homeowners will see a major shift in urban landscaping, more natural habitats, and new property management duties to coexist with local animals. As cities build more green spaces, animals have more safe places to live and travel. This is great… Continue reading

Could Raccoons Be In Your Shed

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If you’re wondering whether you might have raccoons in your shed, the honest answer is yes—it’s very possible, especially here in Montreal. Sheds offer shelter, warmth, and protection from predators and harsh weather. In neighbourhoods across the island, from NDG to Ahuntsic-Cartierville, raccoons regularly look for quiet structures where they can nest, particularly in the… Continue reading

Sealing Entry Points: Our Best Prevention Methods

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You work hard to make your house a comfortable place for your family. It is where you sleep, eat, and relax. But sometimes, uninvited guests try to move in. We are not talking about your in-laws. We are talking about wildlife. Animals like raccoons, squirrels, bats, and mice are always looking for a warm place… Continue reading

Can Squirrels Be Dangerous If They Get In A House?

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Imagine sitting in your living room, enjoying a quiet evening, when you suddenly hear scratching noises coming from the ceiling. It’s unsettling, right? You might brush it off as the wind or an old house settling, but deep down, you suspect something else. Could it be a squirrel? And more importantly, if it is a… Continue reading

Are Rats Driving Your Customers Away? How To Ensure They Leave For Good

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You may unlock your doors each morning ready for business, expecting customers to walk in with confidence. You might not see any obvious problems at first. But when rats in commercial buildings go unnoticed, customers often sense something is wrong before you do. A single sign can change how people feel about your space. You… Continue reading

The Dangers of Bird Droppings and Why Professional Cleanup Matters

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You may notice dark stains on ledges, walkways, or roof edges and assume it is just a mess that can wait. You might even think it is only a cosmetic issue. But when waste builds up around a home or building, the risks go much deeper than appearance. The truth is that bird droppings health… Continue reading

Squirrels In Your Home: The Real Damage They Can Do

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You may hear scratching above the ceiling or movement near the roof and think it is just noise. You might hope it will stop on its own. But when squirrels move inside a house, the damage can start quickly and grow without warning. This is especially true when the attic becomes a nesting space. You… Continue reading

Humane Mouse Control: Protecting Canadian Families This Winter

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You want your home to feel safe, warm, and calm during the coldest months. Winter should be a time when you relax with your family, not worry about noises in the walls or signs of animals hiding inside. When you rely on humane mouse control in winter, you protect your home in a safe and… Continue reading

Preparing for Baby Season: Why Winter Raccoon Removal Is Crucial

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You want your home to stay safe, warm, and protected during the coldest months of the year. When you prepare for baby season, you also want to stop problems before they grow. That’s why winter raccoon removal is so important.  You may not see these animals every day, but they stay active through the winter,… Continue reading

Skunk Encounters With Pets During Cold Months

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Every winter in Montreal, the city transforms under a blanket of snow and the festive glow of Mount Royal, but these cold months also bring different challenges for local homeowners and their pets. Skunk and pet encounters in winter become more frequent as skunks seek shelter beneath decks, porches, and sheds—the same outdoor spaces your… Continue reading

Why Humane Mouse Control Protects Families During Winter Months

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When the temperature drops, mice across Montreal search for a warm place with food and shelter nearby. Traditional methods might seem like a quick solution, but they don’t address the root causes or prevent future problems. Humane mouse control methods, like those offered by Skedaddle, are better for your family, your property, and the environment.… Continue reading

Noises in the Attic at Night: Could Raccoons Be the Culprit?

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If you’re hearing strange sounds above your ceiling while everyone else is asleep, you’re not alone. Raccoons in your attic at night are a common problem for many Montreal homeowners. These curious and intelligent animals are highly adaptable and often choose urban buildings as their preferred nesting spots, especially when temperatures drop. Nighttime noises, particularly… Continue reading

Squirrel Poisoning in Montreal: How It Affects More Than Wildlife

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Squirrel poisoning in Montreal is a growing concern that deserves everyone’s attention. Recent incidents in the Rosemont–la-Petite-Patrie borough have acted as a wakeup call for the community, following the suspected poisoning of a squirrel and several cats—all within a small area. This issue isn’t just about neighbourhood wildlife. It’s about how easily toxins can work… Continue reading

Can Raccoons Come Down The Chimney?

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Raccoons are clever, adaptable animals that have learned to thrive in urban environments like Montreal. While they may seem harmless from afar, their resourcefulness can sometimes lead them into unexpected places—like your chimney. This raises an important question for homeowners: can raccoons come down the chimney? The answer is yes, and understanding why and how… Continue reading

Fluttering In The Attic? What It Could Mean

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Have you ever heard faint fluttering above your ceiling and wondered what it might be? If you’re noticing strange noises in attic at night, you’re not alone—countless Montreal homeowners face the same mystery every year. These sounds can be unsettling, but they usually have a straightforward explanation. It’s important to pay attention, though. Strange noises… Continue reading

When Do Skunks Have Babies? Could They Be Preparing For Birth Under Your Porch?

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You hear rustling sounds under your porch at night. A strong smell drifts through your yard. Your dog refuses to go near that corner of your property. These signs might mean skunks have moved in, and if it’s the right time of year, they could be getting ready to have babies right under your home.… Continue reading

How Fast Can Rats Run? Understanding How They Use Speed For Survival

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You might think you’re fast, but have you ever seen a rat dash across the kitchen floor? Before you can blink, that furry animal is already gone.  At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Montreal, we know how tough it can be to keep up with these clever creatures. Rats aren’t just quick for fun—their speed… Continue reading

What To Do If You See A Mouse In Your Garage

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You turn on the garage light and freeze. Was that a tiny shadow darting behind your toolbox? Your heart pounds as you realize you might have spotted a furry intruder. Finding a mouse in your garage can be startling, but you’re not alone in this situation. Many homeowners face this challenge, especially during colder months… Continue reading

The Hidden Lives of Raccoons: Nighttime Explorers in Our Backyards

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Have you ever heard mysterious rustling in your garden late at night? Perhaps you’ve spotted glowing eyes reflecting in your flashlight beam or discovered your garbage cans mysteriously overturned by morning? If you live in Montreal, chances are you’ve encountered one of our city’s most clever and adaptable wildlife residents. Raccoon nighttime behaviour is fascinating… Continue reading

What Do Bats Eat? Surprising Facts About Their Diverse Diets

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Bats are often misunderstood creatures, shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. Yet these remarkable mammals play crucial roles in our ecosystems through their diverse feeding habits. So, what do bats eat? The answer depends on the species, but most of the bats found in Montreal are insectivores, meaning their primary diet consists of mosquitoes, moths, beetles,… Continue reading

Common Rat Hiding Spots in Homes and Businesses

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Rats are incredibly adaptable and elusive pests, capable of slipping into even the smallest openings and establishing nests in concealed areas. If you’re wondering where rats hide, the answer lies in the quiet, undisturbed corners of your home or business in Montreal, inside walls, beneath floorboards, behind appliances, in attics, basements, and storage areas. These… Continue reading

How Squirrels Enter Montreal Homes: The Top 5 Weak Points in Your Roofline

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Montreal is no stranger to wildlife. From raccoons rummaging through trash bins in Plateau-Mont-Royal to squirrels darting through the alleys of Outremont, the city’s urban environment is rife with animal activity. Squirrels, in particular, are notorious for finding their way into homes, creating chaos in attics and walls. If you’ve heard scurrying noises above your… Continue reading

Could Squirrels Enter Your Home Through Your Chimney?

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If you’ve noticed unusual scratching or scurrying noises coming from your fireplace or chimney in Montreal, there’s a good chance squirrels may be the unexpected houseguest. The openness of many chimneys combined with a squirrel’s climbing skills makes this space an attractive option. It’s a dry, warm, elevated area that provides security against predators. Without… Continue reading

Montreal Wildlife Removal: Can Your Cat Help Deter Mice?

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If you’ve been dealing with unwanted guests scurrying in your walls or kitchen cupboards, you might wonder if your cat can be your ally in keeping them away. After all, cats have been known for centuries as skilled hunters. It’s true that a furry companion might help, but when it comes to ensuring your home… Continue reading

Three Early Signs Your Have A Rodent Problem

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No homeowner wants to discover that they share their space with mice or rats. But detecting the early rodent problem signs can save you time, money, and the stress of a larger issue down the line. Whether it’s unusual noises in the walls, chewed wires, or droppings in hidden places, understanding how to detect rodent… Continue reading

Exploring Montreal’s Bird Nests: A Guide to Nature‘s Tiny Homes

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Montreal’s vibrant natural spaces offer a delightful fusion of urban living and an interconnected natural ecosystem, making the city a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. If you’ve explored Mount Royal Park or walked along the Lachine Canal, you may have noticed birds darting to and from their intricate nests. Understanding bird nests… Continue reading

Montreal Wildlife Control: Should You Use Skunk Spray?

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If you’ve come across an unwelcome skunk in your yard, you may find yourself looking for quick fixes online. One popular suggestion you might encounter is to use skunk spray as a way to deal with the problem. However, our team at Skedaddle Wildlife Control in Montreal strongly advises against it. We’ve seen firsthand how… Continue reading

How Seasonal Changes Affect Squirrel Activity in Urban Areas

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Have you heard squirrels scurrying on your roof or seen them darting across power lines near your neighbourhood? If you live in Montreal, chances are, squirrels are a part of your everyday urban scenery. Their activity isn’t random; it’s a direct result of shifting seasonal squirrel behaviour. From their search for food to nesting habits,… Continue reading

Damage Skunks Can Cause to Lawns and Gardens

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Skunks may look cute, but they can cause serious damage to your lawn and garden. If you’ve spotted torn-up grass or half-eaten vegetables, skunks are likely to blame. This is a common problem in Montreal, where lush gardens and healthy soil attract skunks looking for food. From digging up lawns to raiding vegetable patches, they… Continue reading

The Role of Little Brown Bats in the Ecosystem

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Little brown bats may be small, but they play a big role in keeping nature balanced. These nocturnal animals help ecosystems by eating large numbers of insects, protecting crops, and supporting healthy environments. Their benefits go beyond pest control—bats are essential for maintaining ecosystem balance. Without them, many environments, including those in Montreal, would struggle… Continue reading

The Raccoon’s Sensitive Touch: Understanding Their Unique Paws

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Raccoons are one of Brookhaven’s most fascinating animals, but they have a secret superpower that many people don’t know about. Their paws are unique, packed with thousands of nerve endings that give them an incredible sense of touch. These tiny, hand-like tools help raccoons find food, climb, and explore with amazing accuracy. Their sense of… Continue reading

Chirping in the Chimney: A Guide to Identifying Nesting Birds in Your Home

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Hearing chirping coming from your chimney or vents? It’s likely birds have built a nest inside your home. Birds love warm, sheltered spots like chimneys, attics, and vents to raise their young. But while it might seem harmless, nesting birds can cause serious problems—blocking chimneys, creating fire hazards, spreading bacteria, and even causing structural damage.… Continue reading

Squirrel-Proofing Your Home: Steps Experts Take to Prevent Reinvaders

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Squirrels may look harmless as they scurry around your yard, but letting them into your home is a whole other story. These small animals can cause big problems by chewing through wood, insulation, and even electrical wiring. The damage they create can be expensive to repair and, in some cases, dangerous for your family. To… Continue reading

Health Risks Associated with Mouse Droppings in Your Home

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If you’ve recently discovered mouse droppings in your home, you might be wondering just how dangerous they are. The truth is that mouse droppings can lead to serious health risks—not just for you, but for your entire family. These tiny pellets may seem harmless at first glance, but Hantavirus dangers from mouse droppings can be… Continue reading

Why DIY Mouse Removal Methods Often Fail (And What to Do Instead)

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Nobody likes the unpleasant surprise of finding a mouse scurrying across their kitchen floor. Unfortunately, mouse infestations are a common problem for many homeowners in Marietta. What’s worse, a lot of folks try to handle the issue themselves, only to end up frustrated when the mice keep coming back. It’s a never-ending game of cat… Continue reading

Daytime Raccoon Sightings: What They Mean and How to Respond Safely

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Seeing a raccoon during the day might surprise you. Since they’re usually active at night, many assume a daytime raccoon is sick or dangerous, but that’s not always the case. Raccoons may be out during the day for harmless reasons, like finding food or adapting to their environment. Knowing their behavior is key to safe… Continue reading

Squirrels and Gardens: What is Attracting Them and How To Keep Them Away

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Gardening is one of life’s simplest pleasures, especially here in Atlanta, where you can enjoy a variety of plants, trees, and fresh blooms almost year-round. But if you’ve noticed squirrels in your garden sneaking snacks or digging up your hard work, it might feel like a battle between you and nature. These curious creatures are… Continue reading

How to Identify Evidence of Wildlife in Your Home

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Hearing strange scratching noises in your walls or attic? Maybe you’ve spotted small droppings on the floor or noticed a weird smell you can’t quite place. These could be clear signs of wildlife infestation indoors. Animals like squirrels, raccoons, and mice often sneak into homes searching for warmth and safety, leaving behind clues that can… Continue reading

Marietta Wildlife Control: Do Bat Infestations Smell?

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You walk into your attic or basement and are greeted with a strange, lingering smell. Could it be bats? Yes, bat infestations definitely smell, and it’s often one of the first signs homeowners notice when these animals move into their homes. If you don’t address the issue, the problem can grow quickly, resulting in even… Continue reading

Rats Uncovered: Myths, Risks, and Tips for Humane Rodent Removal

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When you hear the word “rat,” what image springs to mind? For a lot of people, rats are synonymous with filth, disease, and destruction. These long-standing stereotypes have given rodents a bad reputation, igniting panic at the first sign of an infestation. But is everything we believe about rats actually true? With a better understanding… Continue reading

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