by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 29, 2021 | Roof Inspections
Having a sturdy and reliable roof is very important, not only for shelter and warmth, but also for preventing any unwanted guests such as pests or animals into your home. If animals and pests can make themselves comfortable in your home, they will gladly do so. You may be unwittingly allowing animals in your home by leaving your roof damaged, providing easy access and entry points for animals. Here at SOS Wildlife control, our professionals have compiled a list of reasons outlining why it is important to take good care of your roof and have it inspected regularly.
Prevent Unwanted Animals
Many animals like raccoons and squirrels would gladly make themselves comfortable in your home when given the chance. Animals such as raccoons and squirrels often make their way into homes as it is a warm safe space, that provides shelter for themselves and their babies. In fact, to an animal your attic is one of the best places for them to bring their young to keep them safe and warm. Your attic also provides comfort when considering the insulation found within attics. If you neglect to take care of your roof or to have it properly inspected by professionals, you may be inviting these animals into your home. Once they are in, they are difficult to remove and will be causing further damage to your roof and your home. In order to prevent this, have a professional inspect your roof for any potential points of access. When it comes to animal baby season, which typically occurs in early spring and summer months, it is important to have your roof inspected. At SOS Wildlife control, we have to proper tools to inspect, repair and prevent the entry of animals into your home.
Prevent Pest Infestations
Much like animals, pests can also make their way into your home. Pests could not only be seeking shelter, but they may be interested in other things your home has to offer such as food or waste found in your home. Pests such as mice or rats can make their way into your attic but may not remain in the attic if there are things in your home that are attracting them. They could likely be found exploring your home in search of left out food or waste. In order to prevent pests from entering your home, it is important to keep entry points closed off and difficult to access. This can be accomplished by taking the necessary steps in prevention such as closing off any holes, cracks or crevices that may be found in your home and on your roof. Prevent pests from entering by calling the professionals at SOS Wildlife control to perform an assessment and ensure your roof is in its best state.
Prevent Weather Damage
If your roof has any cracks, crevices or issues, your home could be susceptible to damage caused by the weather. Damage to your roof can lead to water leaking into your home, which is certainly unwanted. Water damage will exacerbate the issue as not only will you need to pay for the roof damages, you will also have the additional costs of paying for any repairs that may have been caused from water damage. Prevent paying any additional costs by keeping an eye on your roof and maintaining it throughout the seasons.
Prevent Injury or Mistakes
You may feel as though taking a quick glance at your roof would be sufficient in assessing if there are any damages, however this is not the case. Many people that are not trained in roof inspections, might make the assumption that their roof is fine if they do not see any large or obvious holes and damage, but there is more to assessing a roof than a quick glance. People who are not trained may also injure themselves when venturing on their roof as they are unaware of possible rot or damages, which could lead to them falling or injuring themselves.
When it comes to your roof, it is important to take the necessary steps and precautions in order to maintain it. Your roof provides you with shelter and protection from the environment as well as from animals and pests. If your roof becomes run down and has cracks, crevices or other possible entry points then your roof is no longer serving its purpose of protecting you and your family. We highly recommend having your roof inspected and assessed by a professional in order to prevent any infestations or further damages to your home. At SOS Wildlife Control we strive to solve your problem quickly and efficiently as we understand the value of time and safety for you and your space. With our expertise and skills, we can provide an assessment of your roof as well as effective solutions. If you suspect an infestation or need assistance in effectively removing wildlife such as raccoon removal or squirrel removal from your space call us locally at (647) 995 – 9453 or toll free at 1-800 – 981 – 0330 for all of your wildlife removal needs.
by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 20, 2021 | Duck Control
Your yard is your oasis, especially when the warm weather rolls around. Relaxing with family, friends or enjoying some me-time is always a welcome activity, especially in the comfort of your own space. However, peaceful moments can be interrupted by birds such as duck or geese infesting your yard. Although ducks and geese may be cute, they can also be dangerous and also may leave you some unpleasant droppings. Ducks and geese are attracted to many things in your yard, especially if you have a pool or any other water. Keep ducks and geese out of your yard by following these tips:
- Your Pet can Be a Repellent
Not only is your pet lovable, they may also be a key factor in keeping geese and ducks at bay from living in your yard. If ducks or geese notice a predator, in this case it may be your dog or cat, they will likely keep their distance. Even if your animal is not necessarily aggressive or even has a predatory side, the sight of your pet may be enough to keep ducks and geese at bay.
- Use a Decoy
As mentioned, ducks and geese will likely stay away from your space if they believe there is a threat lurking on your property. If you don’t have pets to use as predators, keep animal decoys on your property. You can use decoys such as swan, fox or coyote decoys, which will keep these birds scared and off of your property. If you have a pool you can also keep inflated animals in your pool such as alligators, whales or dolphins. This will not only provide a threatening appearance to your yard, but it may also prevent these birds from landing and swimming in your pool. When using the decoy method, make sure that you adjust the animals periodically by moving them around your yard in order to make it more realistic.
- Keep Your Yard Clean
Ducks and geese may be attracted to your yard due to potential waste that may be laying around. If these animals know that your yard has any waste or left-over food, they will likely be attracted to your home and return often for an easy meal. If you do not want to attract these birds to your yard, keep your yard clean so these birds do not have another reason to stick around.
- Automatic Sprinklers
If you are having trouble keeping ducks and geese off of your property, you may want to invest in motion-activated sprinklers. These sprinklers will go off when they detect movement, keeping the birds away as this sudden spray of water will certainly startle them and can be unpleasant.
- Use an Ultrasonic Repellent
If you are dealing with ducks and geese in your yard, a harmless method to get these birds to leave is by using an ultrasonic repellent. This machine works by emitting a high-frequency sound that humans can’t hear, but that is annoying to birds. Although this method is harmless, it is certainly annoying to animals and can prevent them from staying on your property. Keep in mind that if you have a pet at home, this method may also be annoying for them, so turning it off when your pet is in the yard is a good idea.
- Duck and Geese Repellent
There are also options that include chemical repellent to keep these birds away from your yard. Duck repellent is a chemical spray that is applied to your lawn and surrounding area to keep birds away. When considering this method, keep in mind that chemical sprays may be harmful and toxic if you have pets or children at home. Additionally, it may also ruin your lawn. If you are considering using chemicals and toxins, it may be time to call the professionals in order to keep you, your family and your pets safe.
- Call the Professionals
If you have tried different methods and are struggling with keeping ducks and geese out of your yard or you are considering using harsh chemicals on your property, it may be time to call the professionals. Here at SOS Wildife control we use effective and humane methods that are also safe for you, your family and your pets. Don’t risk using chemicals on your property, call us locally at (647) 995 – 9453 or toll free at 1-800 – 981 – 0330 for all of your wildlife removal needs.
Here at SOS Wildlife Control we understand the importance of resolving any animal infestations that you may be facing. There are many issues and potential damage that wildlife such as ducks and geese can cause when they invade your yard. We strive to solve your problem quickly and efficiently all while using safe and humane methods. With our experience, knowledge and care for our customers, we are happy to provide our services to your efficiently and promptly. If you are having wildlife problems or suspect that you may have a case, contact us as soon as possible to have your situation assessed and taken care of.
by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 4, 2021 | Squirrel Control
Squirrels may be pleasant to watch frolicking and playing in your local park; however, they certainly are not welcome houseguests. You may have questions regarding baby squirrel removal, and here at SOS Wildlife Control we have the information to share with you. Here at SOS Wildlife Control when it comes to expertise on pests and wild animals, we are a trusted source, continue reading for insight into this years’ baby squirrel season!
When is Baby Squirrel Season?
Baby squirrel season actually happens twice throughout the year as there are two mating periods. The first mating period takes place in January and February. The gestational period for squirrels is around 45 days, so their baby squirrels would be born around March and April. The second mating period takes place in June and July, where these baby squirrels are expected to be born in September and October.
How Many Babies are Expected per Liter?
A liter for squirrels can be anywhere between 2 – 8 squirrels, with the most common liter being 2 – 4 squirrels. This means that if squirrels are using your home as their nest, you may be housing anywhere between 2 – 8 baby squirrels. Keep in mind that squirrel mothers are extremely protective of their young, do not get in between the mothers and their babies. If you spot baby squirrels, leave them alone and contact SOS Wildlife Control to assess your situation.
Where Can the Liter be Found?
Mothers want to provide a safe, warm and sheltered place for their young. The attic of your home is often the perfect spot for squirrels to house their babies. Attics are sheltered, warm, elevated from predators and often cozy with insulation. Your attic is heaven for a squirrel family, if they can make themselves at home, they will.
What are some Signs of Squirrels?
Although squirrels may be small and agile, they are certainly not sneaky or quiet houseguests. If you suspect that you may have squirrels living among you, continue reading for some telltale signs of squirrels in your home:
You Hear Noises
You may hear noises such as scampering footsteps or jumping squirrels that are coming from above, as these critters move around. Another sound you may hear is scratching or gnawing sounds as squirrels gnaw at your home. You may also notice a scratching noise as squirrels may become stuck in a small area and must scratch and claw their way out of this spot.
There is Damage Around Your Home
As squirrels make themselves comfortable in your home, you may notice damage that was not there before. They may cause damage to shingles on your roof, as well as damage to eaves troughs. They may also cause damage to your attic through their scratching and gnawing, as well as possibly destroying insulation as they inhabit in your attic.
You Notice Droppings
As squirrels make themselves comfortable in your home, they will also likely be leaving you their droppings. Squirrel droppings can sometimes be confused with other animal droppings. If you are unsure if you have squirrels in your home, call the professionals at SOS Wildlife Control to assess the situation.
There is a Foul Smell in Your Home
It is not unheard of for squirrels to become trapped in tight spaces in the attic. As this happens and they cannot escape, they will eventually die. This then causes a foul odor in the home that you may notice.
Don’t Allow Them to Stay
Although squirrels may be quite cute and are certainly pleasant to watch in the park, they do not make good houseguests. If you allow squirrels to live in your attic, they will quickly turn this area into their own haven, leaving your property with damages.
How to Resolve a Squirrel Infestation
The best way to deal with a squirrel infestation is to call the professionals as soon as you suspect that you may have squirrels on your property that needs to be removed. Contact SOS Wildlife Control in order to assess the situation and resolve the problem. An assessment is important in order to understand the situation at hand, such as the level of the infestation you may have, how the squirrels entered your property and which solutions best fits your situation. Here at SOS Wildlife Control we use effective and humane methods in order to keep you, our staff and the animals safe.
At SOS Wildlife Control our aim is to solve your problem quickly and efficiently. We understand the value of time and safety for you and your space. Our team understands the nuisance that some animals can cause. Not only can they be an annoyance and cause damage to your property, they may also carry and spread diseases. If you are having wildlife problems or suspect that you may have a case, contact us as soon as possible to have your situation assessed and taken care of – call us locally at (647) 995 – 9453 or toll free at 1-800 – 981 – 0330 for all of your wildlife removal needs.
by SOS Wildlife Control | Mar 25, 2021 | Raccoon Removal
Although raccoons are considered pests, it is common for people to find their babies awfully cute! However, once they begin to cause problems, such as destroying your property, you may not find them as cute anymore. Here at SOS Wildlife Control raccoon removal tips and prevention we have compiled some information using our expertise to prepare you for what to expect for the upcoming Raccoon Baby Season in 2021.
When is Baby Raccoon Season?
Raccoons typically mate towards the end of the winter season, although it is rare, they may also mate in the middle of winter. For the most part, baby raccoons are born in the months of April and May. Although it is less likely, you may see a raccoon liter in March. It has also been found that raccoons are sometimes born in July. In this case, the mother may have lost her initial liter at the beginning of the season and she may try again.
How Many Babies are in a Raccoon Liter?
Raccoon liters can range in size, with anywhere from 2 – 8 raccoon babies in one liter. This means that if you have raccoons that have made themselves at home in your space, you may have anywhere between 2 – 8 extra houseguests as well. Mother raccoons are very protective of their babies and will do just about anything to keep them safe. It is important not to come between a mother and her liter, so keep in mind to maintain keep your distance.
Where Will I Find the Liter?
Although raccoons are certainly outdoor animals, when it comes to creating their nest they gravitate towards the warmth of your home. One of the most common places for raccoons to nest is in the attic of a home. To a raccoon, your attic is the perfect spot to keep her babies safe and warm. An attic is elevated, making it difficult to be accessed by predators. It is also usually empty and uninhabited, apart from insulation which makes the perfect soft bedding for a nest.
How Will I Know if there are Raccoons?
One thing to note about raccoons is that although they are labelled as bandits, they are not necessarily the sneakiest creatures. There are certainly some telltale signs that you may have a raccoon liter living among you. Continue reading for common signs of raccoons in your home.
Listen for noises
They can weigh anywhere between 10 – 60 pounds, making noises both big and small as they thump and rustle in their nest. You may also hear noises coming from the raccoon babies, known as kits. Kits make noises that sound like cries or small chirps. Hearing these noises may be a sign that you have kits among you. If you are unsure if you have raccoons in your home, call the professionals at SOS Wildlife Control to assess the situation.
Spotting a Raccoon Regularly
If you notice that there is a raccoon that is often found hanging around your home, this may be a sign that there is a raccoon family living among you. If raccoons have had a liter in your home mothers will not stray very far from their babies.
Damage to Your Home
If you notice new damage to your home, this may be a sign that a raccoon has made their way inside your home. Keep an eye out for damaged soffits, damaged roof vents as well as siding that is bent. This could be an obvious sign that a raccoon has made their way in, especially if this damage was not present before. However, if you already have damage or openings in your home, this entry point may be allowing raccoons easy access into your home in the first place.
When Will Raccoon Babies Leave?
Baby raccoons are usually confined to their nest for about three months as they are not quite able to move around on their own just yet. After the three months, the kits are more independent and may circulate around the nest as well as outdoors. However, although mom and babies are now venturing outside, they still consider your home theirs. They will continue to retreat back to your space for warmth, comfort and protection, so technically, the raccoons will never leave. In fact, mom will continue to come back to this space year after year to have her liter every season.
What to do When There is a Raccoon Infestation?
If you suspect that there is a raccoon infestation on your property, contact SOS Wildlife Control in order to assess the situation and resolve the problem. An assessment is important in order to understand the situation at hand, such as how many raccoons there are, how they entered your property and which solutions best fits. Here at SOS Wildlife Control we use effective and humane methods in order to keep you, our staff and the animals safe.
At SOS Wildlife Control our aim is to solve your problem quickly and efficiently. We understand the value of time and safety for you and your space. Our team understands the nuisance that some animals can cause. Not only can they be an annoyance and cause damage to your property, they may also carry and spread diseases. If you are having wildlife problems or suspect that you may have a case, contact us as soon as possible to have your situation assessed and taken care of – call us locally at (647) 995 – 9453 or toll free at 1-800 – 981 – 0330 for all of your wildlife removal needs.
by SOS Wildlife Control | Mar 5, 2021 | Raccoon Removal
Our operations manager, Sherwin, was featured in the National Post! The article discusses the spike in raccoon attacks and sightings currently happening in Toronto. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are finding themselves exercising outdoors as a way to get fresh air and time away from home. More time outside also means more encounters with wildlife, such as raccoons. According to the article, Toronto has seen a 62% increase in raccoon scratches and bites since January 2020. Officials are urging Torontonians to keep their distance from raccoons to avoid an attack and a possible visit with a healthcare provider. Sherwin weighs in on the diseases and germs that raccoons are often responsible for spreading. Raccoon attacks can be quite dangerous as their saliva may carry rabies or Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). These diseases are known to be harmful to the health of humans, dogs and other raccoons. Sherwin explains that if you or someone you know has been bit by a raccoon, you should be vaccinated immediately to ensure you remain healthy and safe. With warmer weather on the horizon, people have a higher chance of having raccoon encounters. We advise that you avoid physical contact with raccoons and other wild animals. For more information, please contact us or read the full article at the National Post.
