Squirrels and Raccoons are Troublemakers in Spring

Are you tired of the cold and bundling up indoors? Does the winter blues have ahold of you? Wildlife also gets sick of the cold and embraces the warmer weather. The springtime is a magical time for the renewal of life and outdoor energy. Unfortunately, as excited as people are to welcome spring, neighbourhood wildlife is also antsy to scurry about freely once again. According to raccoon and squirrel control in Oakville, the spring is one of the busiest times for squirrel and raccoon complaints, but why? 

These Animals Are Messy

The primary complaint about squirrels and raccoons is that they are messy. The animals are not known for their table manners. As foragers, squirrels and raccoons look for food wherever possible. Unfortunately, for many homeowners, that includes the trash bins. Additionally, raccoons like to live on the ground, and they frequently move, meaning they burrow often.  Many homeowners will find abandoned burrows on their property. However, burrowing is not the only reason raccoons have for digging. Raccoons will also dig through garden beds and lawns, searching for insects to eat. 

They Are Noisy

While squirrels and raccoons are adorable to observe from a safe distance, they are noisy little buggers. Additionally, since squirrels and raccoons are not active at the same time of day, homeowners can be blessed by their racket 24/7.  Raccoons are nocturnal, so they will scurry about digging through garden beds and trash bins all night long. If they have found their way into your home, you will likely hear scratching and scurrying sounds.  Squirrels are not active at night but during the day, like humans. You will likely hear them chittering or barking at each other when outside. You can also hear them as they scurry up trees. If they have found a way into your attic, you will hear them scratching and making noise during the day. 

They Can Cause Significant Damage

As with any wild animal, a raccoon and squirrel's primary concern is shelter, food, and water. They do not care how they achieve these goals, only that they do achieve them.  Unfortunately, human homes were not built to accommodate raccoons and squirrels, nor were they designed to resist a determined or highly motivated animal. Raccoons are surprisingly intelligent, and they will take advantage of any weak points in your home's structure to access the inside. While squirrels might not be as bright as raccoons, they can fit through a quarter-sized hole.   Both animals can cause significant damage if they find their way into your home. They can chew through wires, wood, siding, etc. They will also defecate and urinate in your attic space.  If wildlife makes it inside your home, you must have it removed. Contact a humane animal control service for assistance. 

They Are Challenging To Remove

While raccoons are a little easier to remove because of their size, squirrels can be incredibly difficult. Because the animals are small and can squeeze through tiny spaces, it is easy for them to evade active removal.   Panicked squirrels can end up in wall cavities, ductwork, and several other challenging spaces. The animal's agility means it is better to handle them with gentle removal tactics. Humane removal teams will focus on eliminating access points and installing one-way exits. 

They Are More Active in the Spring

Raccoons and squirrels are more active in the spring as they prepare for mating season. They will be looking for nesting sites, including attic spaces or areas underneath manufactured structures.  If you have noticed an uptick in wildlife activity around your property, it is necessary to contact a professional. You can schedule a property assessment with Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. It is always best to hire a professional. DIY methods are ineffective and dangerous for the average homeowner and animal.