by Sos Wildlife Control | Jan 20, 2025 | Pest Control, Pest Control Tips, Squirrel Control
Toronto is no stranger to squirrels. These bushy-tailed acrobats are everywhere—darting across streets, raiding bird feeders, and sometimes making their way into attics and chimneys. Toronto’s squirrel population isn’t just surviving; it’s thriving. In fact, the city’s mix of urban living and natural greenery creates the perfect environment for these clever critters.
But here’s the thing—while squirrels may be adorable to watch from your kitchen window, you don’t want squirrels nesting in your home this winter. So, why are there so many squirrels in Toronto, and more importantly, how can you protect your home from becoming their winter hideout? Let’s break it all down.
Why Squirrels Love Toronto
Toronto isn’t just a city—it’s a squirrel paradise. Here’s why they’re thriving in such high numbers:
1. Unlimited Food Buffets
Toronto offers a constant supply of food for squirrels:
- Natural Food Sources: Nuts, berries, seeds, and fungi are everywhere, from the urban canopy to city parks.
- Human Leftovers: Unsecured garbage bins, compost piles, and bird feeders are irresistible snacks for squirrels. Some residents even feed them directly, unknowingly contributing to their growing population.
2. Plenty of Shelter Options
Squirrels need a warm, secure place to nest—especially in winter—and Toronto has plenty of options.
- Tree Nests: They build dreys using leaves and twigs in the abundant trees throughout the city.
- Urban Hideouts: Attics, chimneys, and even spaces under decks offer prime real estate for squirrels looking to stay warm.
3. High Reproductive Rates
Squirrels are prolific breeders. They have two litters a year, typically with 2–4 babies per litter. Thanks to Toronto’s mild winters and ample food, most of these babies survive to adulthood, leading to a population boom.
4. Urban Adaptability
Squirrels are masters of adaptation. They’re smart, resourceful, and not afraid to problem-solve their way into food and shelter. Whether it’s chewing through a soffit or figuring out a way to open a garbage bin, these critters have survival skills on lock.
Why Squirrels Enter Homes in Winter
Winter is tough, even for squirrels. As temperatures drop, they search for warmth, safety, and food. Unfortunately, that often means sneaking into your attic or chimney. Here’s why your home might look like the perfect winter getaway for them:
- It’s Warm: Your attic provides the perfect insulation against harsh Canadian winters.
- It’s Safe: No predators, no wind, no worries—your home is their fortress.
- It’s Near Food: With easy access to garbage bins and bird feeders, it’s like having takeout just a short scurry away.
How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Home This Winter
Here’s the good news: You don’t have to share your home with squirrels. With the right prevention steps and expert help from SOS Wildlife Control, you can squirrel-proof your property and keep them outside where they belong.
1. Seal All Entry Points
Start with a thorough inspection of your home. Look for:
- Gaps in your roof, soffits, vents, or chimneys.
- Signs of chewing or nesting materials.
Pro Tip: SOS Wildlife Control specializes in full home inspections. Their team identifies vulnerable areas and seals them with durable materials like steel mesh and hardware cloth to keep squirrels out for good.
2. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Squirrels are expert climbers and can leap from tree branches onto your roof. Trim branches so they’re at least 6–8 feet away from your home.
3. Secure Your Garbage and Compost
Use animal-proof bins with tight-fitting lids. Squirrels are persistent, so the tougher the container, the better.
4. Protect Bird Feeders
Switch to squirrel-proof bird feeders or place them far from trees and structures squirrels can climb. Clean up spilled birdseed regularly to avoid attracting them.
5. Install Squirrel Deterrents
- Repellents: Use natural options like hot pepper spray near entry points.
- Motion-Activated Devices: Lights or sprinklers can startle and deter squirrels.
- Ultrasonic Devices: These emit high-frequency sounds that squirrels dislike.
6. Call the Experts
If squirrels are already in your attic or walls, don’t panic—call SOS Wildlife Control. Their team specializes in humane squirrel removal and prevention. They’ll ensure every squirrel is safely evicted, nests are cleared, and entry points are sealed to prevent reentry.
Why Choose SOS Wildlife Control?
When it comes to wildlife removal, SOS Wildlife Control is your go-to solution in Toronto. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Thorough Inspections: They don’t just remove the squirrels—they inspect your entire home to identify and seal entry points.
- Humane Methods: Every removal is safe for the squirrels and compliant with Toronto’s wildlife protection laws.
- Prevention Focus: From securing vents to reinforcing weak spots, they make sure squirrels can’t return.
Why Humane Solutions Matter
You might be tempted to try DIY fixes like traps or poison, but these can lead to more harm than good:
- Stressful for Squirrels: Trapped animals often injure themselves or leave behind babies.
- Risky for Your Family: Poisons can harm pets, children, and non-target wildlife.
- Ineffective Long-Term: Without addressing the root cause, new squirrels will quickly take the place of the ones removed.
By choosing a humane, prevention-focused approach like the one offered by SOS Wildlife Control, you can protect your home while maintaining Toronto’s commitment to coexistence with urban wildlife.
The Bottom Line
Toronto’s squirrel population isn’t going anywhere, but that doesn’t mean they need to be part of your winter plans. By sealing entry points, managing attractants, and enlisting the help of professionals like SOS Wildlife Control, you can enjoy a squirrel-free home and a peaceful winter.
So, if you’ve got squirrels sneaking into your attic or just want to prevent a future invasion, don’t wait. Call SOS Wildlife Control today and take the first step toward protecting your home from these persistent (but undeniably clever) critters.
by Sos Wildlife Control | Mar 16, 2024 | Raccoon Removal, Squirrel Control
Scarborough, a bustling suburban district in Toronto, is witnessing an escalating issue that is causing alarm among its residents. The problem is the burgeoning presence of raccoons and squirrels in the area. These wildlife creatures, while intriguing to observe in their natural habitats, are becoming a significant nuisance in urban settings. They are causing extensive property damage and posing potential health risks, disrupting the peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife.
The Escalating Issue of Raccoons and Squirrels in Scarborough
Scarborough, a vibrant district in Toronto, is witnessing an escalating issue with the growing population of raccoons and squirrels. This surge is not a random occurrence but a consequence of several interconnected factors.
The rapid pace of urban development and the continuous expansion of residential areas have significantly impacted the natural habitats of these wildlife creatures. As their traditional homes are gradually taken over by human settlements, these animals are left with no choice but to adapt to urban life.
Residential areas, with their abundance of food sources, have inadvertently become attractive havens for these creatures. Unsecured garbage bins and bird feeders, in particular, serve as easy and plentiful food sources for raccoons and squirrels. This abundance of food, coupled with the loss of their natural habitats, has made urban areas an appealing alternative for these animals.
The severity of this issue has been underscored by recent news reports highlighting specific incidents involving these creatures. There have been numerous cases of raccoons breaking into attics, causing substantial damage to insulation and wiring systems. These incidents not only result in costly repairs but also pose potential fire hazards.
Squirrels, while smaller in size, are not less destructive. They have been known to chew through exterior woodwork and even electrical wires. The damage caused by these small creatures can be extensive, leading to potential fire hazards and significant repair costs.
The escalating presence of raccoons and squirrels in Scarborough is a complex issue that requires immediate attention. It is a problem born out of urban development and the subsequent loss of natural habitats, and it is exacerbated by the availability of food sources in residential areas.
The Profound Impact of Raccoons and Squirrels on the Scarborough Community
The presence of raccoons and squirrels in Scarborough is not just a minor inconvenience; it has a profound impact on the community. These wildlife creatures, while part of our natural ecosystem, can cause significant issues when they venture into urban areas and residential properties.
One of the most immediate and visible impacts is property damage. Raccoons, with their dexterous paws, are known to break into attics, tear up insulation, and chew on electrical wiring. This not only leads to costly repairs but also poses potential fire hazards. If you did have animals in the attic consider having your attic inspected and insulation replaced. Squirrels, though smaller, are equally destructive. They can gnaw through exterior woodwork, damage garden plants, and even chew through electrical wires, leading to similar risks.
However, the impact of these creatures extends beyond physical damage. Raccoons and squirrels can also pose serious health risks to the Scarborough community. Raccoons are known carriers of diseases such as rabies and roundworm. Rabies is a deadly virus that can be transmitted to humans through a bite or scratch, while roundworm eggs, often found in raccoon feces, can infect humans and cause a variety of health problems if accidentally ingested or inhaled.
Squirrels, on the other hand, can carry ticks that spread Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that can lead to severe health issues if left untreated. The droppings of these animals can also harbor other pathogens, potentially leading to the spread of various diseases.
The presence of these animals can also cause significant distress among residents. Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, and their activities during the night can disrupt sleep. The sight of a raccoon or squirrel, particularly for those with young children or pets, can cause anxiety and fear. Squirrels, with their penchant for digging up bulbs and eating bird food, can wreak havoc on gardens, causing frustration for homeowners who take pride in their outdoor spaces.
The impact of raccoons and squirrels on the Scarborough community is multifaceted, affecting the physical, health, and emotional well-being of its residents. It underscores the importance of effective wildlife control measures to manage these creatures and mitigate their impact on the community.
The Crucial Role of Wildlife Control in Urban Areas
In the face of the escalating wildlife challenges in Scarborough, the role of wildlife control becomes not just important, but absolutely crucial. The increasing population of raccoons, squirrels, and pest in urban areas, and the subsequent issues they bring, necessitate effective wildlife control measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
Wildlife control is not merely about removing these creatures from residential areas. It’s about managing their population in a way that strikes a balance between the needs of these animals and the needs of humans. This balance is essential to maintain harmony in our shared spaces, and to prevent the disruption and damage that can occur when wildlife populations go unchecked.
Professional wildlife control services, such as SOS Wildlife Control, are equipped with the expertise and resources to address this growing problem. They have a deep understanding of the behaviors and habits of these animals, and use this knowledge to devise effective strategies for managing their presence in urban areas.
These services employ humane and effective methods for wildlife removal. This means that the animals are not harmed during the process, but are instead relocated to suitable habitats where they can thrive without causing issues for humans. This approach not only ensures the well-being of the animals, but also aligns with ethical standards and regulations regarding wildlife control.
Moreover, professional wildlife control services also focus on preventing future infestations. They do this by identifying and sealing potential entry points in residential and commercial properties, and by advising property owners on how to make their properties less attractive to wildlife. This can include measures such as securing garbage bins and removing food sources.
In addition to preventing property damage, these measures also help to mitigate health risks associated with wildlife infestations. By controlling the population of raccoons and squirrels, the spread of diseases that these animals can carry is also controlled.
The importance of wildlife control in urban areas like Scarborough cannot be overstated. It is a crucial aspect of maintaining a safe and harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. With the expertise and resources of professional services like SOS Wildlife Control, this balance can be effectively achieved.
Solutions to Raccoon and Squirrel Problems in Scarborough
Professionals such as SOS Wildlife Control offers a range of services to help manage wildlife issues in Scarborough. Their team of trained professionals uses humane and effective methods to remove raccoons and squirrels from residential properties. They also provide prevention services, helping homeowners make their properties less attractive to these creatures.In addition to removal, SOS Wildlife Control also focuses on prevention. They provide property owners with advice and solutions to make their properties less attractive to wildlife, reducing the chances of future infestations. This can include sealing entry points, removing food sources, and modifying habitats.
In Conclusion: Addressing the Escalating Wildlife Issue in Scarborough
In wrapping up, it’s clear that the escalating issue of raccoons and squirrels in Scarborough is a pressing concern that demands immediate and effective action. The impact of these creatures on the community is multifaceted, affecting not just the physical properties, but also the health and emotional well-being of the residents.
The solution to this growing problem lies in the hands of professional wildlife control services. By leveraging the expertise and resources of a reputable company like SOS Wildlife Control, residents can take a proactive stance against this issue. SOS Wildlife Control has a proven track record of effectively managing wildlife populations in urban areas, ensuring a balance between human activities and wildlife needs.
Their approach is not just about removing these creatures from residential areas, but also about preventing future infestations. They do this by identifying and sealing potential entry points in properties, and by advising homeowners on how to make their properties less attractive to wildlife. This comprehensive approach ensures that the problem is addressed at its root, preventing recurrence and ensuring long-term peace of mind for residents.
Moreover, SOS Wildlife Control is committed to using humane and effective methods for wildlife removal. This means that the animals are not harmed during the process, but are instead relocated to suitable habitats where they can thrive without causing issues for humans. This approach not only ensures the well-being of the animals, but also aligns with ethical standards and regulations regarding wildlife control.
The growing presence of raccoons and squirrels in Scarborough is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive solution. By choosing SOS Wildlife Control, residents can ensure a safe and peaceful coexistence with local wildlife, protecting their properties, their health, and their peace of mind.
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 | Jul 29, 2018 | Helpful Tips, Squirrel Control
Toronto is home to a wide variety of squirrel species. These little rodents are so common in the wildlife scene of the city that you commonly see them along tall establishments or dancing from one tree branch to another.
However, these squirrels don’t just entertain our eyes by running and bouncing around the yard. Sometimes, they go beyond that, invading homes in search for a safe place that will provide them shelter.
Even though the squirrel population in Toronto seems diverse, there are squirrel species that populate the vicinity. Knowing how to identify these squirrel species will help you deal with them properly and seek the right squirrel control services.
Eastern Grey Squirrels
The black and grey squirrels may look different, but they actually come from the same species. They only vary in coat color. Both these squirrels belong to the eastern grey squirrel family. You can easily identify them because their fur appears grey. However, in some cases, they turn brownish or black.
The tails of these creatures are long and bushy. They typically measure around 40 to 50 cm. In terms of food, they prefer to eat acorns because they can quickly process the proteins found in them. It is for that reason why we commonly see the eastern grey squirrels out and about our yards, particularly during the cold season.
Red Squirrels
Unlike the eastern grey squirrels, red squirrels are smaller. But when there are lots of them to deal with, their size won’t matter.
The red squirrels are easily distinguished because of the changes in their coat color that depends on the season. When it is warm, their fur turns reddish with patches of white on the belly. When the temperature drops, the white patch on their belly becomes grey.
In terms of tail size, the red squirrel’s tail only measures about 10 cm. Then again, don’t let its size fool you. Like other squirrel species in Toronto, red squirrels can invade your home if they feel it’s a great place to build a shelter.
Why Squirrels Love Toronto
Toronto is a favorite city for squirrels because everything they need to survive is here, including food. As long as they have access to tons of food supply, they can breed more often and give birth to bigger litters.
With the rising squirrel population in the city, the wildlife department of Toronto advises people to avoid feeding these creatures. Squirrels can find food on their own. Once they see a potential food source, chances are, you are helping increase their population.
What You Should Do
True, there are tons of wildlife species in Toronto. While show up in the public, others prefer to hide in the wilderness.
Now, if you suspect that the squirrel population in your area is becoming uncontrollable, whether it’s the red or eastern grey squirrel, seek help from wildlife removal service providers in Toronto area. They can identify what squirrel species you are dealing with and take appropriate actions to humanely and safely remove them. Just do not attempt to remove them on your own.
by Sos Wildlife Control | Apr 18, 2018 | Animal Control, Squirrel Control
In a recent study done by scientists from the University of Alberta, it was found that male red squirrels kill the baby squirrels of their male rivals in times when there is an abundance of food. The study was published in the Ecology journal and it is the first ever proof of the eccentric practice of the spirited rodents.
Red Squirrels: What Are They?
Also called the Eurasian red squirrel, the red squirrel is an omnivorous rodent that is prevalent in North America, Italy, Ireland, and Great Britain. Due to habitat loss, its population has declined drastically in the past few years.
Its most distinguishable feature is its sharp, curved claws, which allow it to climb up the trees and jump over think branches. It also has a long tail that helps it balance while jumping and running from tree to tree and keeps it warm while sleeping.
This creature sheds its coat two times a year. When summer is near, it switches to a thinner coat. During winter, it changes to a dark and thicker coat.
The Beginning of the Study
Jessica Haines, a biologist and a post-doctoral student, said that the result of the study was indeed surprising. Though it was a bit horrifying, it was a bit fascinating and interesting to have discovered such odd behavior.
Haines personally witnessed such behavior in 2014 while doing field work on red squirrels near Kluane National Park. The behavior is termed sexually selected infanticide.
How It All Began
She recalled what had happened. She said she heard a bit of a commotion near her so she decided to look over. That was when she saw the odd event. It just happened so fast. Her curiosity made her decide to conduct a further study.
She started tagging the ears of some squirrels using distinct markers. That way, she could easily identify which squirrels were involved. At one moment, she saw a male squirrel enter the territory of the females. It immediately grabbed a pup and bit its stomach and chest, killing it instantly. After that, the male squirrel was chased by the mother, making it decide to drop the deceased pup.
Male Rivalry at Its Finest
Haines could not right and there conclude if the male squirrel was the father of the pups, the reason why genetic techniques and strategies were performed. After several tests, it was found that the male squirrel that killed the pup was not the father.
At that time, Haines concluded that the male squirrel killed the offspring of his rival. Later on that year, it was already the father of the female squirrel’s new set of offspring. By killing the pup, it had an advantage over its rival.
In the later part of the study, it was also found that female squirrels can breed quickly if their first set of litter is killed. When a female squirrel’s litter dies, she’s more likely to have another batch. Otherwise, she’d less likely have another offspring.
The Killing of Offspring Is Common During Mast Years
The study was done during those years when there was an abundance of white spruce cones – the primary food source of squirrels. These trees are known to produce vast amounts of cones annually. But there are also years when they produce cones periodically. These years are called the “mast years”.
Interestingly, squirrels can tell when these mast years will happen. During these years, which happen rarely, female squirrels usually have two litters.
The Surprising Conclusion
Haines then concluded that infanticide happens frequently during the mast years because it is the time when female squirrels are likely to give birth to another set of litter. During other years, they don’t usually produce another litter, hence she thinks male squirrels won’t spend much time and energy killing the offspring. After all, they would not benefit from doing it.
Then again, during the mast years, the survival rate of red squirrel pups is still high despite the death of the first batch of pups. Also, sexually selected infanticide is rampant only among animals that live in groups, including grizzly bears and lions. Like red squirrels, lions kill the babies of their rivals before they can lead the pride.
Also Read: Do it Yourself Squirrel Control Measures That Don’t Work
by Sos Wildlife Control | Oct 14, 2017 | Squirrel Control
A Rundown through few signs that will help you determine if your home is frequented by Squirrels but we suggest you call a professional for squirrel removal. Squirrels may seem harmless but they can get pretty feisty if they see you entering their territory.
1: Peculiar clamors are heard
The two most normal sounds you’ll hear are either a cluster of rushing and hopping sounds in your upper attic or the sound of steady scratching if one of them have turned out to be stuck in your wall cavities or down chimney your sweep. Most likely this is because you have squirrels in your roof, and having your roof inspected for holes would be important to prevent animals from coming in and to prevent leaks to your home.
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