by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 22, 2016 | Uncategorized
We here at SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated know that our planet is an amazing place with a ton of things to be appreciative about! In this line of work, we’re lucky enough to be able to encounter wildlife like raccoons in Mississauga or squirrels in Toronto (although when we see them they technically are in properties they aren’t supposed to be in!) and see what kind of amazing things they are capable of, which is a lot. Our Earth is filled with all sorts of ecosystems with wildlife and nature, that should be taken care of and preserved. We know that sometimes it slips our mind, but every little bit helps! And if more people keep making small efforts, then we will have contributed to a big change.
Here are a couple things we can incorporate in our lives
Bring a lunch to work and use non-disposable containers! This will help eliminate waste, and it might even be healthier cut down on takeout!
If it’s feasible, skip the drive to work on some days or carpool! Other alternatives to greener transportation are public transportation, walking or biking!
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Maybe you don’t need to buy that thing (that you already have 3 of)
Consume less, shopping-wise. Let’s be less materialistic and stop buying items we don’t need. Those things we end up shoving in to the back of the closet, or lost in the garage? Nah. Less material, less waste.
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Wasting with water-bottles
Plastic, disposable bottles? Grab yourself 1 or 2 good-looking reusable water-bottles instead. Refill them where and when possible so you don’t have to toss a bunch away everyday
When throwing things away, make sure they’re sorted into the right bin to keep from filling our landfills. People from the City of Toronto can use this article: What Goes Where
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7 Rs, I thought there were 3!
Re-use Keep from tossing so many things into the waste bin by reusing items where you can
Re-purpose Think, DIY Projects. If there’s something you’re thinking about getting rid of, see if there are any ways you can make it into something fabulous instead
Rot compost everything organic.
Repair instead of replacing. The handy-person or fixer-upper in your life can help take care of this
Return If you’re buying a product, choose to go somewhere where you can return it in case you change your mind, so you don’t have to throw it out
Refill As mentioned above, a cool water-bottle never hurt anyone
Refuse If you don’t need to, don’t buy packaged, disposable, single-use products
Let’s all remember that every little bit helps. Together, we can each do our part in protecting our earth so let’s do it!
Happy Earth Day!
by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 21, 2016 | Animal Control, Bird Control, Squirrel Control
Last Updated: June 2016
Morning in Brampton
By 7:30 am SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated technicians were on the road, ready to begin the day bright and early on the highway from North York to Brampton. A typical day for our technicians consists of driving out to all corners of the city to meet with customers and helping them solve their wildlife and pest control problems.
This specific case was for a customer who had been living in a single-detached house with raccoons above her head in the attic for about a week. She had been hearing noises of scratching, moving around and some chirping type sounds, which is a common occurrence for people who are or have experienced this. “I hear them around 5-6 am in the morning” she told SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated professionals. After a receiving some details on the whereabouts, habits, noises of the raccoon, another furry masked mammal was spotted across the street on a neighbors property. It was evident that the occurrences of people experiencing raccoon problems in the area was common.
Not too long after, our technician Sherwin was on his way up the ladder onto the customer’s roof for an inspection. SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated documents by video-recording entry ways, possible entrances and damages for the customer to see. On this property it was apparent that raccoons were going through a makeshift entrance of a hole in the soffit. What was found was that not only raccoons were getting through this hole, but so were birds who had flown in and around during the visit. Along with the damage in the soffit were additional likely entrances for the raccoon to go through. After a thorough inspection, SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated technician made our recommendations to prevent wildlife entrances by proofing the different types of roof vents.
Wildlife In Mississauga
After a stop in Concord ON., later in the morning, SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated professionals were making their way to handle a problem of wildlife in Mississauga where they had a customer in a commercial building experiencing squirrel problems. Ladders were propped up against the wall of the building and SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated professionals made their way up onto the roof. Building occupants complain that there had been squirrels running through the ceiling and on one instance had gotten into the hallway of the building where they had spent a Friday chasing it out. With no luck, they had called SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated to help take care of it. Upon inspection, SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated technicians found entrance points that required squirrel one-way doors – an installation that allowed squirrels to get out of the building, but not reenter. One-way doors used by SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated are made from galvanized steel mesh, a type of material strong enough to keep wildlife from damaging it.
North York by Noon
The next trip was back to North York where SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated had a customer who had previously experienced raccoons in the attic. A one-way door installation had been conducted near the edge of the roof top and SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated technicians were there today removing the door after the raccoon had left, and replaced it with galvanized steel mesh, a prevention method used to keep wildlife from chewing through and re-entering. A minor roof repair was completed, and the job was done.
SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated technicians work hard to provide our customers with the results the want by delivering professional, effective and efficient services. If you’re experiencing wildlife nuisances on your property, give us a call at 1.800.981.0330 to schedule an appointment. We are available 24/7 for emergency situations (wildlife in your immediate vicinity).
by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 18, 2016 | Uncategorized
Last Updated: June 2016
My experience in climbing the CN Tower on behalf of SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated for the World Wildlife Fund CN Tower Climb for Nature on April 16/16
Prepping for the CN Tower Climb
After learning about the World Wildlife Fund’s event WWF’s CN Tower Climb for Nature, we realized it was surely not an event to turn down. WWF’s CN Tower Climb for Nature is a fundraising event that supports work conducted to help conserve the different type of species and habitats in ecosystems all around the world. The 2016 fundraiser was among the largest group to climb raising approx. $1 million for this cause and I was very happy to have participated on behalf of SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated
I met all the qualifications and was registered for the CN Tower Climb by April 13th and thought to myself “okay, I’m really doing this”. This was my first attempt to do the climb and I was excited but also nervous on what to expect. With the support of the S.O.S Wildlife Control staff, friends and family, i figured I could do this and had Adrian, fellow boyfriend, join me on this mission up the 1,776 stairs. Thankfully, he said yes.
Days approaching the climb, I had been mentally and physically preparing myself by taking the stairs at every opportunity, drinking lots of water and getting excited for the walk. I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy route up, but I was definitely up for the challenge. By 9:30 am on Saturday April 16/2016 I arrived at the Metro Convention Center downtown Toronto to check-in at registration. There were a ton of people, all eager to participate in this climb, solo climbers, teams, families. Once we were all checked-in began the journey to the bottom of the CN Tower. A shout out to all the volunteers who helped out at this event and made the entire process extremely easy for all the climbers, they did a great job! At the bottom of the stairs, we were met with security ensuring that all our items had been left at the bag/coat checks as it was a completely hands-free climb- no cell phones, water bottles, wallets, or anything that wasn’t important documents, medical information etc. Once we had passed this, the climbing began.
Upwards Journey
The first point was to stamping our time-sheets. 10:02 am. We were met with someone I presume was security who high-fived us and wished us luck and then suddenly it was official – I was at the very bottom of the CN Tower, on my way to the top. The staircase was quite standard. Wide enough to fit two sets of climbers, right-side for walking and left-side for passing. I began on the right side. I had made it a couple flights up before feeling the effects. I was tired, my legs were sore and I was out of breath so I took a break and slowed down my pace. I feel like I maintained a reasonable pace after my first break and kept climbing up with Adrian giving me support and encouragement when needed. Several flights up I wanted to know my progress. Each flight was numbered, but I had forgotten how many there were in total so it felt like a never ending journey, unsure of how close I was to the top. The question came to mind several times during the climb.
Throughout the journey up, you never once feel alone as there are people ahead, behind and passing you through most of it feeling the same way you are. In addition to this, every once in a while you’ll hear somebody’s voice echo through the staircase yelling words of encouragement! The sights weren’t dull either. Posted on the walls were pictures drawn by children encouraging climbers to keep going and reminding us of how we were supporting a great cause. I remember one that said, “just a couple hours left!” and I have to admit, my eyes widened. Participating in the climb were also people dressed in costume. Teams in brightly colored tutus, a guy in a Spider-man outfit – this definitely took your mind off the fact that 500 steps remained!
As we continued, more and more people were crowding at the base of each flight taking a breather. I still didn’t know how many flights there were in total, so I didn’t know when I was getting closer to the top, but seeing these people resting was an indicator that were maybe getting closer? I was sweaty, exhausted, and needed a drink of water. I hoped we were almost there and so did the people around me. At one point somebody had yelled, “does anybody see sunlight up there?” and I had that exact question. Suddenly, you hear cheering above you, and you know the end time-sheet stamping station was approaching . I gained momentum once I knew the end was near, and jogged up the final steps. My sheet was stamped at 10:34 am. 31:49 was the amount of time I needed to climb up 1,776 stairs. I’d like to think it would of been much shorter had I prepared just a little bit more, but I didn’t care that much because I had made it! To the top of the CN Tower via staircase. After getting the sheet stamped there were “cool down” steps up to the platform where we were met first with the WWF Panda Mascot who was the first to high-five us in a long line of volunteers cheering climbers on.
Made it!
On the platform we found the water bottle station and happily chugged down the contents. We were welcome to stay there and enjoy the view of the city from the top of the CN Tower alongside other climbers, everyone exhausted but feeling accomplished for both supporting WWF’s climb for nature and climbing up those stairs. I can say for myself that although it wasn’t easy, I had an amazing experience and will likely participate again next year.
A big thanks goes to WWF for hosting the event towards a great cause allowing us to participate and contribute in helping support the conservation of ecosystems around the world! Another thanks to S.O.S Wildlife Control for sponsoring my climb allowing me to participate!
by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 12, 2016 | Human-Wildlife Conflict
Today we interviewed Linda from Procyon Wildlife Veterinarian and Rehabilitation Services to learn more about what they do as volunteers, their experiences, the good times and the bad.
Procyon Wildlife is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center committed to helping wildlife in need. Their hardworking, passionate and caring volunteers spend their time caring for wildlife like raccoons, coyotes, foxes etc. and don’t gain a single cent from it. Their operations are run with the help of donations from people like you!
- How long have you been a volunteer at Procyon Wildlife?
8 years
- What types of animals do you handle?
Every type of wildlife that is native to our area. Coyotes, foxes, squirrels, fawns, opossums, groundhogs, weasels and raccoons
- What kind of services does Procyon Wildlife offer?
We are a rescue, rehabilitation and release center. We take in injured and sick wildlife but we deal mostly with orphaned babies.
- Approximately how many volunteers does Procyon have and how many are needed?
At the minute, we have approximately 90 volunteers but to run efficiently we really need 120.
- What do you feel is the most difficult thing wildlife is facing right now?
Loss of their natural habitat has negative and extensive consequences.
- Do you feel like there is a certain type of wildlife making more of an appearance at the rehabilitation center than others? What animal and why do you think so?
Yes. At Procyon, we deal with a lot of squirrels and raccoons. Again it is because we are taking away their natural habitat. Many rescues do not rehab raccoons so we take as many as possible. Raccoons are very clever and can outwit many of the guards put in place to keep them out of an area.
- What kind of jobs are there available for volunteers?
Animal care is our most popular, however we need volunteers for our education program, fundraising, site maintenance, drivers and answering phones.
- Describe your daily routine as a volunteer
We have 3 shifts 5 am-9 am Noon-4:00 pm and Evening 7-11 pm. When a volunteer arrives they first read the observations made from the previous shift. This way we are aware if there are problems with any particular animal or litter. Then it is preparing formula/food for the babies. Each orphan is weighed to calculate the amount they are to be fed. Their enclosures are cleaned each shift. After all the babies are fed, the dirty dishes and laundry must be done and then the floors must be mopped. This is an animal hospital so care must be taken that it remains as clean as possible.
- What made you decide to volunteer at Procyon Wildlife?
My whole life I have been surround by animals, although they were horses, dogs and cats, not wildlife. When I came across an ad for Procyon, it just seemed natural to become a volunteer.
- What is your favorite part about volunteering at Procyon Wildlife?
When orphans arrive at Procyon, they are basically dying. If we didn’t rescue them then they could not survive at such a young age. To watch them being released gives volunteers a feeling of pride that they helped these babies survive.
- Describe your most memorable experience you’ve had while volunteering at Procyon Wildlife
There are many memorable times in a volunteer’s shift, and it really depends on the volunteer and the animal involved. I have so many but for me it was a raccoon who had a case number but we called him Andy. That was in 2011 and to this day I put Andy’s picture on any poster I’m involved in. He was just special and I often wonder if he is still out there enjoying the good life.
- What is the most difficult part about volunteering with Procyon Wildlife?
I think everyone would agree that it is when we lose animals. Whether is is from illness or injuries it is difficult to see their loss.
- What is the most rewarding thing about working with Procyon Wildlife?
Saving the animals is the most rewarding, but working with other same minded volunteers is something that makes you look forward to your next shift.
- Describe your overall experience with volunteering with Procyon Wildlife in 5 words
Joy, Anger, tenderness, pride and sadness
- How can people help Procyon Wildlife continue to aid wildlife in need?
We must learn to live with wildlife in every way that we can. Secure places that they find attractive to have their litters. Do not litter and keep garbage cans covered. Help your wildlife facilities by donating items from their wish lists to monetary donations. Procyon is run strictly on donations. There is no government funding and every cent brought in goes towards formula, medications, vaccines and veterinary care. No one at our facility receives a penny.
- Would you and why would you recommend volunteering at Procyon Wildlife
As I have said, it can be hard work as the babies get bigger, but there is nothing more rewarding then knowing that you have been part of a team that gives these babies a chance at the life they should have. That is payment in itself.
- Additional Comments you would like to share?
Volunteering with Procyon might not be for everyone, but for those with a love for animals and our environment, it is very satisfying. Working with wildlife gives you knowledge about the beauty of these creatures and you are in a position to be able to inform people in your community about their importance.
Thank you Linda, for sharing your experiences with Procyon Wildlife to us. We along with wildlife that has been affected are greatly appreciative and in awe of what wildlife rehabilitators like Procyon Wildlife does for animals out there. If you would like to volunteer or donate to Procyon Wildlife, visit their website here
by SOS Wildlife Control | Apr 5, 2016 | Uncategorized
Last Updated: June 2016
Baby Season
This time of year is popularly known as baby season. The colder weather has passed, brighter colors are starting to make an appearance, plants are getting ready to bloom and raccoon babies are being born on y our property. During these months, mother raccoons, squirrels and many other mammals are either getting ready to have their babies or already have. Once they have had their babies, the next several weeks are spent childrearing, ensuring that their young is equipped with the right skills and training necessary to fend for themselves in the wild. Baby mammals are always a charming sight to see when admiring in the wild from afar – unfortunately in some cases what ends up happening is, the mother uses attics, garages etc. instead! While their fascinating appearances may awe and fool you, having wild mammals indoors can be quite disruptive and destructive. This problem however, can be avoided either by taking several precautions.
Be Proactive!
Being proactive can save you time, money, and hassle. A single raccoon on your property is one thing, but a family of raccoons or a bunch of squirrels running around your attic is definitely an increase of problems. In order to keep a family of wildlife from selecting your property as their new home, something that you can do on your own is to make your home as unappealing to them as possible. Because these mammals are looking for a habitable spaces that are dark, a reduced risk of encounters with humans or other predators and a possible food source, making these thing unavailable will discourage them from selecting your property.
Here are a couple things you can do to keep animals selecting your property as their new home
- Ensure that food is properly sealed to avoid attracting wildlife to your property
- Take notice of any holes, cracks or weak spots in the building structure that wildlife can use as an entry point
- Some wildlife species avoid bright lights and loud noise. If possible, you can use these as a method to deter wildlife from approaching your property
- Make sure that trash and waste is disposed of properly
Another very effective way to keep wildlife babies from being born and raised on your property is a wildlife prevention services conducted by a professional wildlife removal company. Wildlife prevention services include a thorough inspection of your property where technicians locate weak areas and potential entrances for wildlife. Once they have all been located and accounted for, technicians proceed by screening these areas to keep wildlife from getting through. These methods will ensure that wildlife will not be able to get into your property to make a home for themselves and to raise their babies. Wildlife prevention conducted by SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated keeps it so that your home remains intact, free of wildlife damage and free of nuisance.
Take Action!
If you’re in a situation where wildlife families have already found their way onto your property, and you are the (not so) proud host of a 4-5 baby raccoons in your attic, it’s not too late. In order for wildlife babies to have the best chance of survival, they need their mother – which is why whatever method you take to remove wildlife from your property, you must ensure that they remain together. This can be tricky without the required training, equipment and experience. Therefore, calling a professional is always recommended. SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated technicians are professionals in wildlife removal and wildlife baby removal. They are familiar with and follow the regulations in place to ensure that in the process of wildlife removal and wildlife baby removal, the animals are given their best chance for survival, and they are not harmed. SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated is humane, efficient and effective when dealing with all sorts of wildlife problems.
If you require assistance with wildlife baby raccoon removal or would like to schedule an appointment for wildlife prevention services, call SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated at 1.800.981.0330 today!
At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we provide wildlife baby raccoon removal services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Let us help you solve your wildlife problem. We can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for your wildlife baby removal needs.
