Raccoons in Scarborough: Why They Thrive in the City

Raccoons are small, intelligent animals made famous by the facial mask around their eyes. They can be found in forests, cities, farms, and suburbs alongside humans. But over the past few years, these animals have started spreading at a rapid rate and infesting the city of Toronto. According to reports, in 2017 the city of Toronto was home to an estimated 100,000 raccoons, earning it the nickname “Raccoon Capital Of The World”. With their vast population growth rate, it’s not uncommon to encounter the masked critters often. If that happens, professional raccoon removal services in Scarborough should be your first thought. Raccoons hanging in a soffit.

How It All Began

The first reports of raccoon infestation can be traced back to 2002 when the city started its organics bin program. The program aimed to separate organic waste from landfills and turn it into compost. Unfortunately, the bins soon found themselves in the crosshairs of the raccoons. With enough food, these animals soon flocked into the backyards of urban neighborhoods such as Scarborough. Here are some important considerations that have to do with raccoon success in urban areas:

Feeding Habits

Raccoons are omnivores by nature. They feed on fruit, insects, eggs and small animals. They can also eat just about anything they find in the green bins. Many believe that the unintended feeding of the raccoons is what caused them their population surge in the first place. Failure to properly cover the bins also helped the animals to thrive.

Tons of Adaptability

Older homes can be a breading ground for raccoons with multiple possible entry points. Raccoons prefer to den in hollow trees when it comes to their natural surroundings. On the other hand, urban areas pose more challenges when it comes to seeking shelter, which is why easily accessible buildings and homes became hotspots for dens. Raccoons are adaptable and clever by nature, and they will do whatever it takes to gain access into the targeted structure. Attics, for example, provide exactly the kind of reliability, warmth and safety raccoons are looking for when searching for an ideal place to make a den. Add to that the fact that they are incredible climbers as well and just about anywhere can become a raccoon's home.

The City’s Counter-Strategy

In 2014, the city officials decided to curb the raccoon population through euthanasia, but more than half of the city residents were against the notion. So, the city issued new “raccoon resistant” green bins for organic waste. These new bins were heavier and harder to tip over. They have a lock, making it impossible for the raccoons to open them.

Is Your Scarborough Home Plagued by Raccoons? Call Skedaddle

Professional raccoon removal in Scarborough is the first thing that needs to be on your mind if you suspect a raccoon family has invaded your property or home. Dealing with these critters the DIY way should not be attempted, partly because nesting mothers can be particularly aggressive, and because you have no way of knowing if the animal is rabid. Professionals like Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control have nearly three decades of experience in dealing with wildlife invaders safely and humanely. Skedaddle takes great pride in its humane approach that sees mother and baby raccoons reunited upon removal from homes, as well as allowing them to seek new shelter elsewhere. Get in touch with Skedaddle today and ensure your home has no more masked invaders in the future.