As urban expansion continues to grow and expand, the need for effective solutions to wildlife conflicts has become more important than ever before. Cities are now home to large populations of raccoons, squirrels, skunks, birds, bats and mice that have adapted their natural behavior to urban and suburban environments and thrive while living side by side with humans.

With numerous wildlife species woven into the fabric of most communities and neighborhoods in the city, the potential for problems is almost inevitable. Despite this, experience has taught us that once size fits all solutions to complex conflicts between humans and wildlife are often ineffective and inhumane.

When raccoons take up residence in your attic or skunks occupy your deck, your first reaction might be to set up a trap, catch the offender and drive them out the country. Though it’s tempting, trapping and relocating wildlife can have untended consequences and could make the problem worse.

Why trapping wildlife is not the answer:

• In Ontario, it is illegal to trap and relocate animals from the site where they were captured according to the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.
• Live-trapping causes great stress for the trapped animal, and they may seriously injure themselves as they desperately attempt to escape.
• The trapped animal is exposed to the elements and can suffer from painful cases of frostbite and heat stroke. If an animal is left in the trap it will suffer for days and will eventually die of exposure or starvation.
• Domestic animals and other wildlife may harass the trapped animal causing further stress or injury.
• Trapped and relocated animals may be separated from their young, and the dependent young left behind will die an inhumane death.
• Relocated animals are at an extreme disadvantage in a new environment. They have to find food, water and shelter in an unfamiliar territory. There may be territorial disputes between the relocated animal and resident animals that can lead to injury and even death. Relocated animals may also spread disease to the resident wildlife population, therefore causing other animals to become ill and/or die.
• Improper use of a live trap, which results in animal suffering, could lead to animal cruelty charges through the Ontario SPCA Act.

Why poison is also not the answer:

• Companies often tell potential customers that pesticides and poison are humane and safe. Nothing could be further from the truth.
• Most are acutely toxic and cause animals to suffer immensely. Often times when the animals die, it is eaten by another animal on the food chain, and that animal becomes sick from the poison and dies. The cycle continues.
• Another danger of using poison is that children or household pets may get exposed to the poison, causing severe health effects.
• Not only is it cruel, but it is not effective way to resolve problems More animals will move in from surrounding areas and will the newly vacant spaces.

Now that you know trapping or poisoning is not the answer, and that it is unsafe to deal with wildlife on you own, a professional wildlife control company is the next step.

Here’s what you should look for when hiring a wildlife control company:

Experience

As with most things, experience counts. When dealing with unpredictable wildlife it’s important that your professional have the knowledge and experience to handle any potential scenario.

Companies with a proven track record of satisfying customers are your best bet, so don’t be afraid to ask how long they’ve been business. A warranty isn’t worth much if the company won’t be around to honour it down the road.

Referrals

In the age of online it’s easier than ever to find company reviews. Social media, Google and the Better Business Bureau are great places to start. Friends, family and co-workers can also help guide you in the right direction.

Inspection

No two wildlife intrusions are the same. The species involved, time of year, den site location and numerous other factors will help play a role in determining the best course of action. It all starts with a thorough inspection of your home, including your roof and attic, for current and potential points of wildlife entry and damage

A misdiagnosis of the problem is a recipe for trouble when managing nuisance wildlife. Be wary of contractors who are all too willing to quote you a price without first understanding the scope of the issue.

The Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control Approach: Why we are the right choice for you wildlife problems

A detailed a property assessment

• The first step to resolving any wildlife conflict is a correct diagnosis of the problem. To do this, Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control technicians perform a 35-50 point inspection of your property, including the attic. We look for signs of wildlife activity and building damage around your home to determine the steps required to remove and exclude any and all wildlife.

A written quote

• Once we have a complete understanding of the situation, our technicians will explain their findings and walk you through our process. There’s no one size fits all solution when it comes to wildlife so we make sure to answer any questions you may have and keep you informed through the process. All of our work is backed by a written guarantee.

A humane removal

• Since 1989, we have always taken the humane approach when dealing with our wild neighbor’s. When it comes to solving wildlife conflicts each situation is unique. That’s why we pride ourselves on implementing customized solutions that take into account both the construction of your home as well as wildlife biology and behavior. Our hands-on removal techniques reduce stress and harm and keep animals families together. We are endorsed by local SPCAs and humane societies for the methods that we use.

Proven Results

• We have over 30 service vehicles providing specialized solutions in 70 municipalities across Canada. Our proven track record of successfully removing wildlife, cleaning their mess and preventing re-entry has made us an industry leader. You can trust us to provide peace of mind through superior results.

If you have wildlife problem do the humane thing and call Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. Our work is guaranteed for life and our commitment to professionalism and customer service is equal to none. After our thorough process is complete, we will have humanely removed the wildlife from your home, cleared and repaired any damage, and protected your home from future unwanted animal visitors.

Call 1.888.592.0387.