Raccoons and Squirrels in Scarborough are on the rise

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.

Mosquitoes in Ontario and the Diseases They Carry

Mosquitoes are extra than just an annoyance. In Ontario, the chance of mosquito-borne illnesses like Lyme and Zika virus is on the upward push, especially in densely populated areas including the GTA. Professional mosquito control offerings play a essential role in coping with those pests. They conduct thorough inspections to become aware of mosquito breeding grounds, which regularly encompass tall grass, dense woods, trees, and shrubs. Moreover, these offerings offer house owners with practical advice to reduce mosquito populations, which includes disposing of assets of status water.

Mosquito Species in Ontario and the Diseases They Carry

Ontario is home to several species of mosquitoes, each with unique traits and behaviors. Some of those species are recognized to carry illnesses that can be harmful to human beings.

For example, the Culex pipiens, or common house mosquito, is a recognised provider of the West Nile virus. This species is maximum energetic during dusk and dawn and is commonly located in city areas.

Another species, the Aedes albopictus, additionally called the Asian tiger mosquito, is a capacity carrier of the Zika virus. This species is most energetic for the duration of the day and is usually found in suburban and rural areas.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Staying informed approximately the today’s information and updates on mosquito manipulate and associated fitness concerns is crucial. Bookmark reliable resources and frequently test for updates to guard yourself and your own family from mosquito-borne sicknesses.

Reducing Exposure to Mosquito Bites

Reducing exposure to mosquito bites is a critical step in stopping mosquito-borne sicknesses. This can be completed through a aggregate of private preventive measures and professional pest manipulate services.

Personal preventive measures consist of sporting lengthy-sleeved shirts and long pants, using insect repellent, and ensuring window and door screens are in excellent repair to save you mosquitoes from entering your own home.

Professional pest manipulate services, on the other hand, can provide complete answers to manipulate mosquito populations. They have the understanding to pick out mosquito breeding grounds and put into effect powerful control measures.

One provider that has been diagnosed for its professionalism and effectiveness is SOS Wildlife Control. They offer more than a few pest control offerings and feature a group of experts educated to handle numerous pests, consisting of mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes and Seasonality

Mosquitoes are not simply summer season pests; their hobby and population dynamics are closely tied to seasonal adjustments. Understanding these styles can help in implementing powerful mosquito manipulate techniques.

Mosquito Activity Throughout the Year

In Ontario, mosquito interest usually starts offevolved inside the spring, as temperatures begin to upward thrust. Mosquitoes, which hibernate over the iciness, emerge to put their eggs – usually in stagnant pools of water – as the temperature techniques 15 stages Celsius. The combination of an in advance snow soften and a wetter season can yield extra stagnant puddles for the mosquitoes to reproduce, particularly in urban regions.

During the summer, mosquito activity is at its peak. The heat weather accelerates their metabolism and lifestyles cycle, letting them grow from egg to adult in just a few days. This is also the time when maximum humans are outside, growing the probabilities of mosquito bites.

In the fall, as temperatures start to drop, mosquito interest starts to lower. However, a few species can nevertheless be energetic and lay eggs so as to live to tell the tale the winter and hatch the subsequent spring.

Impact of Weather Conditions

Weather conditions play a tremendous role in mosquito population dynamics. A warm spell observed by means of heavy precipitation can lead to an increase in mosquito habitats, resulting in a spike of their population. On the other hand, a dry season could negatively affect mosquito populations by using proscribing their habitat.

Climate alternate is likewise a issue to do not forget. Warmer and wetter situations added approximately through climate exchange can create more favorable situations for mosquitoes, probably leading to an boom in their population. There is also a growing concern that these situations are permitting southern species of mosquitoes, that could convey sicknesses like dengue fever and the Zika virus, to migrate to northern latitudes.

Mosquito Control Methods and Their Effectiveness

Controlling mosquito populations is a multifaceted mission that calls for a mixture of strategies to be powerful. These strategies can be broadly classified into sorts: preventive measures and energetic manipulate measures.

Preventive Measures

Preventive measures aim to reduce the possibilities of mosquito breeding. This consists of getting rid of status water sources, that are capacity breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Regularly cleansing gutters, emptying birdbaths, and properly retaining swimming swimming pools can assist in this regard.

Another safety measure is the use of mosquito repellents. These merchandise, which can be applied to the pores and skin or clothing, can assist deter mosquitoes and decrease the probabilities of getting bitten.

Active Control Measures

Active manage measures, alternatively, intention to reduce the existing mosquito population. This consists of the use of pesticides, that may kill mosquitoes at numerous degrees in their lifestyles cycle. However, the usage of pesticides have to be performed judiciously, as overuse can result in resistance among mosquito populations.

Another active manage degree is the usage of mosquito traps. These devices, which frequently use mild or heat to attract mosquitoes, can assist lessen the adult mosquito population.

Biological manipulate techniques, inclusive of the introduction of natural predators like birds, bats, or sure species of fish, also can help manage mosquito populations. However, these techniques require careful making plans and tracking to make sure they do no longer disrupt the nearby ecosystem.

Professional Pest Control Services

Professional pest manipulate offerings can provide a comprehensive technique to mosquito control. They have the understanding to become aware of mosquito breeding grounds, put in force powerful manage measures, and monitor their effectiveness.

One such provider that has been identified for its professionalism and effectiveness is SOS Wildlife Control. They offer a variety of pest manage offerings and feature a team of experts educated to handle various pests, consisting of mosquitoes.

Controlling mosquito populations requires a aggregate of preventive and lively manipulate measures. By staying knowledgeable about the modern news and updates on mosquito control, you could guard yourself and your own family from mosquito-borne sicknesses. Remember, reducing exposure to mosquito bites is key, and professional pest control services like SOS Wildlife Control can provide the necessary assist.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Staying informed about the modern news and updates on mosquito manipulate and related health issues is crucial. Bookmark dependable resources and regularly take a look at for updates to guard yourself and your own family from mosquito-borne diseases.

Conclusion

Mosquitoes can be more than only a nuisance; they can also carry illnesses which can be dangerous to people. However, with the right know-how and sources, you may effectively manipulate mosquito populations and reduce the hazard of mosquito-borne diseases. Whether it is thru non-public preventive measures or expert pest manage offerings like SOS Wildlife Control, remember that the key’s to reduce exposure to mosquito bites. Stay secure and stay knowledgeable.

Toronto’s growing rat problem – Toronto Star

Toronto’s growing rat problem – Toronto Star

SOS Wildlife Control was recently featured in the Toronto Star! Sherwin Baghani, owner and field manager of SOS Wildlife Control, shares insights on Toronto’s rat problem. Many residents are seeing more and more rats around their neighbourhoods and are looking for solutions from the city. From January to July, the city had received 914 complaints related to rodents. Baghani explains that they’ve had many customers call for help after numerous attempts with the city. The current rat problem is likely due to ongoing construction forcing rats out of their nests and dated infrastructure, such as sewers. If you or someone you know is experiencing problems with pests and wildlife, call SOS Wildlife Control today. Be sure to check out our latest feature in the Toronto Star!

27 Things You Didn’t Know about Termites

You may know termites for being pesky pests that will destroy your home, however there is much more to them than that. Though termites can be pesky and unwanted, the facts surrounding these insects are incredibly fascinating as well as impressive. Here at SOS Wildlife Control we have compiled a list of interesting and fun facts about termites. Continue reading if you are interested in knowing more about termites or just want to hear some impressive facts about these insects. 

Not All Termites are Pests

There are around 2800 species of termites in the world! In fact, only 28 species of termites are known for eating infrastructures. Most species of termites are not interested in eating your home. Unfortunately, the ones that do destroy your home are certainly the pesky kind! 

They are Beneficial for Ecosystems 

Termites can be beneficial for ecosystems as they aerate soil with their tunnel systems and promote plant growth. Additionally, they clear the dead wood that is found in their surroundings. It has also been found that in dry climates such as savannas termite mounds can help prevent effects of climate change in these climates due to the nutrients and moisture found in these mounds. 

Termites do not only Eat Wood 

Not all termites only stick to wood in their diet. Some species of termites have been known to eat items such as fabrics and plastics as well. 

There are More Termites Than People 

One single termite mound can be host to millions of termites. The queen of the termite colony certainly work hard and lay around 30 000 eggs in one single day! These queens can lay 15-25 eggs per minute. That is a large number of termites. 

Termites are Large in Numbers Compared to Other Insects

As mentioned, the queen termite can lay an incredibly high number of eggs and produce massive colonies. Termites are so large in numbers that they make up around 95% of all insect and soil biomass found in tropical regions. 

Termite Queens Have Long Lifespans

Termite queens can outlive any other insect in the world. In fact, queen termites have the longest life span compared to any other insect on earth. It has been found that some termites queens can live anywhere between 30 – 50 years. 

Termites Promote Crop Growth 

Termites are helpful for the growth of crops. This is because their poop is rich is nitrogen and acts like a natural soil fertilizer. Additionally, their tunnels help aerate the soil and allows water to penetrate the soil deeply allowing plants to readily soak up more water. 

Termites are like Architects 

These insects are incredibly strong and hard workers. They build tunnels, move dirt and can build mounds up to 30 feet high. The colonies are able to create intricate tunnels and massive mounds cohesively in order to help their queen and colony survive and thrive. 

Termites Bite Faster than a Cheetah Runs

Termites can move their mandibles at 157 miles per hour, whereas a cheetah runs at 76 miles per hour. Their bites are incredibly fast and are certainly effective in order to create their intricate tunnels. 

Termites are Rich in Gut Bacteria

Gut bacteria is becoming increasingly more important in research concerning human health. Termites are host to as much as 1400 different species of bacteria in their hindgut – with 90% of this not found in other species on Earth. Scientists are incredibly intrigued by this and strive to harness these microbes to potentially make biofuel from plants. 

Termites have been used for Health 

In some areas people use termites as a part of a nutritious diet, such as in Singapore. People in the Amazon also burn termite nests and breathe in the smoke in order to care for the flu. 

Termites can Build Their own Air Ventilation 

Termites are able to keep their nests at a comfortable temperature through the intricate system that is their nest. They create a large chimney that is central to their nest and build a large mound that is above ground. This mound has tunnels that surround the main chimney, this then acts as though they are breathing air in and out, allowing air to flow through their nest. 

Termites are very Social 

Termites are very social and view their colony as a family. In fact, this “family colony” typically stays together for a minimum of two generations. The family works together to take care of the young and each other. They also work together to protect the nest. 

Termites Clean One Another 

As we know termites are very social and take care of each other. They spend a lot of time caring for one another which include grooming and cleaning each other. This way they prevent the spread of disease in their colony. 

Termites have Roles 

Every colony has a caste system. This system includes a queen, king, worker termites and soldier termites. These roles are determined by the queen and her pheromones. The queen feeds her young her feces, which has pheromones in it. Depending on the pheromone that is found in the feces and consumed by the babies, this will determine what type of role the babies grow into. 

Queen and King Termites are Winged 

When queen and king termites reach sexual maturity, they develop wings. They use these wings to fly away from their nest and colony in the search of finding a new area and new mate to produce their own colony. Once they have found the area in which they want to reproduce, they lose their wings. 

Queens are Largest 

In the colony, Queen termites are significantly larger than all of the other termites found in the colony. In fact, the largest termite species have queens that can grow up to 4 inches long! 

Worker and Solider Termites do not have Eyes 

Although queen and king termites have both wings and eyes, many of the lower caste termites such as worker and soldiers do not have either. Worker termites are responsible for building tunnels, foraging and feeding others. They are the smallest caste of termite. Soldier termites are bigger than worker termites and they are responsible for protecting the nest. They have larger and sharp mandibles in order to execute and cause damage to any foreigners that may invade the nest and threaten their colony. 

Soldier Termites Cannot Feed Themselves 

Solider termites have one role, to protect the nest. This means they are unable to forage for food and feed themselves. Therefore, they rely on worker termites to provide them with sustenance. Worker termites do so by regurgitating cellulose that they have extracted from food sources into the mouths of the solider termites. 

Termites Release Pheromones 

Pheromones is not only a way to assign roles to termites, but it is also their form of communication. They use different types of pheromones in order to communicate what is going on in the nest, where there may be food, where there may be threats as well as other information. The pheromones are secreted from grands that are found around their chest. 

Termites use Vibrations 

Termites not only use pheromones as a form of communication, but they also use vibrations. If there is a threat to the colony termites will create vibrations in order to warn the others of the threat. They do so by tapping or banging their heads against the colony tunnel walls. 

They Have Sensory Organs 

As termites use vibration in order to communicate, they have sense organs in both their tibiae and the base of their antennae which allow them to feel any vibrations. 

They Sense Food Sources through Vibrations 

Termites are able to sense which food sources to search for and infest based on vibroacoustic signals that are sensed. The ability to sense vibroacoustic have been found to be specific to only some species of termites and not all termites possess this ability. 

Termites do not Sleep 

Termites do not sleep!  In fact, they work 24 hours a day until their death. This brings a whole new meaning to worker termites! 

Termites Have Competition 

Termites and ants do not get along, in fact ants are not only competition for termites but are also their predators. If termite and ant colonies are found near each other, both colonies may even go at war in order to claim their territory and access to food. In these wars the soldiers castes of both species invade each other colonies. 

 Termites Produce Gas 

Termites produce methane gas as they digest the wood that they have eaten. In fact, it is has been found that termites may release around 150 million tons of methane gas per year. 

World’s Largest Termite Colony 

The largest termite colony that has ever been recorded in history had over 3 million termites. This is the size of a large city! 

Although termites certainly get a bad reputation, they certainly aren’t all bad. In fact, they are quite impressive creatures, and their work ethic is certainly unmatched!  Although they are impressive insects, they can definitely become a nuisance in your life if you are affected by the wrong type of termite – the infrastructure eating kind. As mentioned, termites work 24 hours a day and will not stop to rest or sleep. Simply imagine what that would do to your home if they got their way into your infrastructure. If you are concerned about an infestation in or around your home, it is always best to contact the professionals before the situation gets worse. If you already have an infestation, here at SOS Wildlife Control we can eliminate the problem for you in a safe and responsibly manner. We always keep you and your family’s health and safety in mind.  !  If you are concerned that you may have a termite infestation in your home or your office, contact us for safe elimination that does not jeopardize your health and safety. 

If you have questions about your termite problem call us at (647) 994-9453 or 1-800-981-0330, we will do our best to help.

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