Urban Wildlife Management: Coexisting with Spring Visitors
Understanding Springtime Wildlife Activity
As temperatures rise and food sources become more abundant, urban wildlife becomes noticeably more active. Many species take advantage of the changing season to establish shelter, forage, and reproduce. Here’s a breakdown of common springtime visitors and the behaviors to watch for:
1.Squirrels: Persistent Nest Builders
Increase in nesting activity as females prepare for spring litters.
Frequently enter attics, chimneys, and wall voids to create a safe environment for their young.
Known to chew on wiring, wooden beams, and insulation, posing a fire hazard.
More active during early mornings and late afternoons, especially in areas with large trees.
2.Raccoons: Resourceful Scavengers
Utilize their dexterous paws to pry open garbage bins, pet doors, and even roof shingles.
Commonly give birth in spring, leading to more protective and territorial behavior.
Often take refuge in attics, crawl spaces, and sheds due to the warmth and shelter they provide.
Can be aggressive if cornered, making professional removal the safest option.
3. Skunks: Lawn Diggers and Garden Visitors
Attracted to backyards and gardens in search of grubs, worms, and insects.
More likely to burrow under decks, porches, or sheds for shelter.
Recognizable by their slow movements and risk of spraying when startled.
Can be deterred with motion-activated lights or scent-based repellents.
4. Opossums: Opportunistic Foragers
Tend to roam at night, scavenging for food in trash bins, pet food bowls, and compost piles.
Rarely aggressive but will hiss or play dead when threatened.
Seek out dark, enclosed spaces such as garages, under patios, or inside woodpiles.
Help control insect and rodent populations, making them beneficial despite their eerie appearance.
5.Birds: Nesting in Unwanted Spaces
Begin building nests in eaves, vents, chimneys, and gutters as early as March.
Some species, like starlings and pigeons, create large colonies that can leave droppings and debris buildup.
Blocked vents from nesting material can pose a fire hazard or restrict airflow.
Installing deterrents like bird spikes, screens, or netting can help keep them from settling too close to home.
How to Wildlife-Proof Your Home
As spring arrives, wildlife becomes more active in search of food, shelter, and nesting sites. Taking proactive steps to secure your home and property can prevent unwanted visitors while allowing you to coexist peacefully with nature. Here’s a step-by-step guide to wildlife-proofing your home this season:
1. Seal Entry Points – Eliminate Hidden Access
Wildlife can squeeze through even the smallest openings, making thorough inspections essential. Take the time to:
✅ Inspect Your Roof & Attic – Seal off gaps in soffits, vents, and chimneys using sturdy mesh screens or vent covers. Raccoons and squirrels commonly enter through these openings.
✅ Check Siding & Foundation – Look for cracks, loose panels, or holes in siding and foundation walls. Use caulk or hardware cloth to cover any potential entry points.
✅ Secure Utility Openings – Gaps around pipes, HVAC ducts, and electrical conduits can serve as easy entryways for rodents and insects. Install weatherproof sealants or foam insulation to close these spaces.
✅ Close Off Crawl Spaces & Basements – Ensure that basement windows are secure and that crawl space vents are properly screened to prevent animals from nesting inside.
2. Secure Trash & Eliminate Food Sources – Remove Temptation
Wildlife is opportunistic, and unsecured food sources are an open invitation. Keep these tips in mind:
✅ Use Wildlife-Resistant Trash Cans – Invest in bins with locking lids or weight them down to prevent raccoons and rodents from accessing garbage.
✅ Bring Pet Food Indoors – Do not leave pet food bowls outside overnight, as they attract skunks, raccoons, and opossums.
✅ Clean Up Outdoor Eating Areas – Whether it’s a picnic table, deck, or backyard grill, food remnants can lure unwanted guests. Sweep up crumbs and store food properly.
✅ Monitor Bird Feeders – While feeding birds is enjoyable, fallen seeds can attract rodents and squirrels. Use seed trays to catch spills and clean regularly.
3. Maintain Your Yard – Reduce Hiding Spots
A tidy yard is less inviting to wildlife, as it removes areas where they can take shelter. Key maintenance tips include:
✅ Trim Overhanging Tree Branches – Branches that extend close to your roof can serve as bridges for squirrels and raccoons. Trim them at least 6-8 feet away from the house.
✅ Clear Brush & Leaf Piles – Unused woodpiles, excess leaves, and overgrown shrubs create excellent hiding places for small animals like skunks and rodents.
✅ Mow & Weed Regularly – Overgrown grass and unkempt landscaping provide cover for wildlife to move unnoticed. Keep your lawn neatly trimmed.
✅ Secure Compost Bins – Use a compost container with a lockable lid, as food scraps can attract scavenging animals like opossums and foxes.
Stay ahead of potential issues and enjoy a peaceful, pest-free season! For more expert tips and professional wildlife management solutions, visit Knockout Pest Control Burnaby [https://www.knockoutpest.ca/ ].
