Did you know that in 2016, the city of Toronto spent around $31 million to combat a raccoon infestation? These masked bandits were just everywhere. They infested the attics. They rummaged the bins. They pooped on porches. It seemed that they took over Toronto.
The reports about raccoon invasion have reached the cities of Chicago, New York, and Portland. The government just could not stop them.
A Brief History
Within the years 1930 to 1980, the population of raccoons in the United States increased twentyfold. In the years 2014 and 2015, the raccoon population in the city of Brooklyn almost doubled. Based on the numbers, we can’t help but ask, how did these creatures manage to thrive and make it big in the world’s major cities?
In case you didn’t know, the natural habitats of raccoons are slowly being destructed by us humans. And since these little critters eat almost anything they see, be it acorns, fish, dog food, or pizza, it’s not surprising why their populations thrive in the cities.
Raccoons in the City
In the city of Brooklyn, most of the captured raccoons are relocated to nearby forests or to Prospect Park. But wildlife biologists have later discovered that they just head right back to dumpsters or the city streets.
Although it seems nearly impossible to stop them, the city of Toronto still wants to try. They invested millions to deploy raccoon-proof waste bins. Unlike the conventional bins, these containers have lids that come with special gravity locks. They can only be opened when a garbage truck arm turns them upside down.
The plan was to cut off the primary food source of raccoons. This way, they would no longer go to the city. However, that really did not happen. As a matter of fact, wildlife control service providers have acquired more raccoon-related work.
There was even a video that made rounds online where an intelligent raccoon was caught on camera while opening the new bin. Although we don’t want to admit it, this little critter obviously had outwitted the whole city.
Raccoons Are Smart
In a study, it was found that raccoons are smarter that other medium-sized critters. They have more neurons packed into their brains compared to other creatures of the same size.
Based on research, the neuron density that raccoons have is similar to that of primates, which are already known to be clever. Raccoons also have very sensitive hands and paws, helping them feel subtle textures and open locks without even exerting much effort.
While they look very adorable, experts remind us not to be deceived by their looks. Because of their cleverness, they can do more damage than good. They can nest in properties. They can destroy your insulation. They can eat your wires. They can even create holes through the walls.
In addition, the poop and feces they leave behind contain parasites and roundworms. If they enter your lungs, they can cause various diseases.
Having said all that, it’s quite understandable why cities are doing everything in their power to deter these little masked critters. Now, if you feel you can’t do anything about your raccoon problems in toronto, just leave the work to wildlife removal companies.
SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated has been providing the City of Toronto with wildlife nuisance solutions, including raccoon removal. We can help you get rid of raccoons in an effective and humane way. Call us at (647) 994-9453 for more information.