Tips to get Rid of Birds on your Property

Nuisance birds on your property can, and have been a problem for many Toronto and York Region residents for a long time. People often tolerate these dilemmas for long periods of times before they throw in the towel and call a professional. There are several reasons why bird removal, or any type of wildlife removal is left unresolved for a while before calling, which could stem from finances, to lack of time or even just for the sake of putting it off.

Here we touch base with the importance of what Bird Removal is, why it is so important, what common bird problems occur and the easiest way to get rid of birds.

What is Bird Removal & why is it Important?

  • Bird removal are a series of methods and strategies used to get rid of birds on your property.
  • Bird removal is important because if left untreated the bird population increases, which complicates the removal process
  • Bird droppings can be toxic
  • Bird’s nests can be dangerous when they are perched on and around wires that could lead to safety hazards

Conducting bird removal before the situation escalated is always recommended for a number of reasons. In addition to the list above, birds also can cause problems like leaving nesting material nearby or in drain pipes which could lead to water damage. The sight of bird droppings are unpleasant and the chance of being victim to bird dropping is less than favourable. If bird removal is left untreated for long period of time, there is a likelihood that the bird population will increase further complicating the situation. Dealing with bird removal as early on as possible can save you in time, damages, and costs in the future.

What is the Problem with Birds?

Although bird watching from afar can be mesmerizing, having birds up-close and on your Personal Property can be a problem.

Here’s why:

  • Bird’s droppings can stain property and damage building materials.
  • Bird nests can also clog drains which leads to water damage.
  • Nuisance bird noises throughout the day
  • Birds perching on your property

What’s the Easiest way to get Rid of Birds?

It’s easy to think that birds are the easiest things to get rid of compared to getting rid of mice or bugs. We assume that we can just chase a bird and they fly away and never come back, but unfortunately this is not the case. Birds need to be Removed by professionals; the easiest way to remove birds is to call a wildlife removal company like SOS Wildlife Control Inc.

Some of the Methods that we use to Conduct Bird Removal are the following:

  • Bird Spikes

Bird spikes are tracks that are installed over flat surfaces that make it impossible for birds to land on. It causes no harm to the animal, it simply ensures that the bird won’t be able to perch on this location! Bird spikes are durable and effective, requiring little to no maintenance.

  • Bird Nets

Bird netting is a method of bird prevention that uses stainless steel cables and nets to block off a specific area from birds. This is a permanent solution as long as the netting is not tampered with.

  • Shock Track

A shock track is installed on ledges or any flat surfaces where birds are not welcome to perch. It is useful from deterring all species of birds by releasing an electric pulse. This method does not injure birds, however it is unpleasant resulting in the discouragement of birds on your property./

  • One-Way Door

A one-way door is our most commonly used removal method for birds. A one-way door is fit to a specific entry point which allows the bird to exit but not re-enter the property.

If you notice signs of wildlife in your house give us a call. At SOS wildlife control, we provide superior pest control services for residential, commercial and industrial clients, guaranteeing effective results every single time.. Taking action before it’s too late will help eliminate animal damage repair costs. We can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for a thorough inspection to help evacuate all your unwanted wildlife guests in the most humane way possible.

Types of Damages Pests can do to your Property

Garden pests seem like a small problem, but these issues can actually escalate very quickly. Many people dismiss garden pests, as a small situation but this blog will help educate you on some of the damage that garden pests can do to your property.

Raccoons

When you think of raccoons you just think about them passing through, grabbing a quite bite from your garbage and simply leaving to go about their business, but what actually happens can be more of a problem than you think.

Raccoons are capable of so much. With their nimble hands and their level of intelligence, raccoons have the ability to get into people’s properties and raise their young or make a mess!

Raccoons are also susceptible to carrying parasites and if raccoons travel around your property a lot, these parasites could make it into your home. Some raccoons carry roundworms which is passed through feces. If a raccoon leaves droppings on people’s property, either a dog or a small child playing in the garden can catch something or bring it in the home

The damage roundworms cause should be taken very seriously

Skunks

Skunks are known for their defensive ability to spray unpleasant smells, but skunks are capable of so much more! Skunks often find shelter under sheds or decks which is a nuisance for property owners who simply want to go about their day without fear of wildlife nearby. They are capable of catching certain disease or virus’s and are prone to digging up lawns both which are problems and concerns for people.

Here are a list of skunk concerns

  • Skunks are susceptible to catching diseases and viruses. If contracted, the likelihood of it spreading to somebody on your property is increased.
  • Skunks use their spray as a defense when feeling threatened. You never know if what you’re doing could aggravate the skunk, causing them to spray, leaving you with a foul odor that can last a while
  • Some pets either get upset or excited when they see wildlife on the property. Either way, their reaction could startle wildlife which could cause them to respond unfavorably.
  • Skunks like to dig in people’s yards. The reason for this is to feed on the larvae. Although they may find their meal for the day, all you’ll find are messes in your yard and garden.

Squirrels

Squirrels are interesting, adorable, quick footed mammals, but their appearance does not take away from the damage they can cause you and how that can cost you.

Some common squirrel problems include the following

  • Squirrels chewing through roof vents
  • Creating entry points through the outside of the property
  • Biting through wires in the attic
  • Leaving droppings on your property
  • Making messes with the insulation

Squirrel, like other small mammals are also capable of contracting different diseases and viruses like rabies. Although not all squirrels have the virus, hosting skunks on your property only increases the likelihood of it spreading to somebody within the vicinity.

Birds

Birds although are an amazement when watching them from a far, can actually be a nuisance when the birds come down to being on your property. Some of the common bird problems that occur include

  • Noisy bird sounds bothering people throughout the day
  • Creating nests for their young and making messes in the process
  • Leaving droppings all over the area (which in some cases can be toxic)
  • Perching on your property could bother some

There are 3 specific birds that are considered as nuisance wildlife animals, and are the only ones that can be interfered with according to Ontario law. These birds include the Pigeon, the Sparrow and the Starlings.

There are several methods in conducting nuisance wildlife removal in your garden or on your property, and although they may work at first, the results are usually temporary and you may be faced with the same, or similar problem again (costing you more in the long run). With SOS Wildlife Control you can be sure that our methods are humane, professional and effective. Our technicians are trained, licensed and have years of experience when conducting wildlife removal processes. Whether you’re faced with a raccoon, squirrel or bird in your garden or anywhere else on your property, you can be sure that SOS Wildlife Control will give you the results you want.

If you notice signs of wildlife in your house give us a call. At SOS Wildlife, we provide superior wildlife removal for residential, commercial, and industrial clients, guaranteeing effective results every single time. Let us help you solve your wildlife problems. Taking action before it’s too late will help eliminate animal damage repair costs. We are can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for a thorough inspection to help evacuate all your unwanted wildlife guests in the most humane way possible.

Call SOS Wildlife Control at  1.800.981.0330 for Markham Raccoon Removal!

Toronto Wildlife Removal

Last Updated: May 2016

What does Toronto Wildlife Removal mean? To us, it means saving our clients from unwanted visitors (a.k.a urban wildlife), and humanely bringing the visitors back to their natural habitats. Both in the City of Toronto and in the Greater Toronto Area, wildlife can be a nuisance to many residents, business owners, and industrial/agricultural environments.

What is Wildlife?

Wildlife traditionally refers to non-domesticated animal species. Wildlife can be found in all ecosystems, in both urban and rural sites. Common wildlife animals found in the GTA are birds, pigeons, skunks, snakes, raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and bats. Most times, these animals will behave in hostile manners when aggravated, and can be considered as dangerous and sometimes infectious.

Wildlife & Human Co-Habitance

In most cases, wildlife and humans can co-exist in urban areas. While everyone goes about their businesses, conflicts do arise at times. As weather gets cooler, urban wildlife starts seeking shelter. Raccoons, squirrels, pigeons, and bats may settle in attics, between walls, and chimneys; causing significant damage and health hazards to homeowners. Skunks could hide under porches or decks and spray house pets or unwary residents. Human-wildlife conflict does arise frequently in Toronto.

Fall is a peak season for Toronto wildlife removal needs as many animals start looking for food and shelter from the fast approaching cold weather conditions. This is the time to wildlife proof your property to avoid unwanted visitors. Usually finding warmth and food in or around a structure. Wildlife such as raccoons and squirrels easily get acclimated to their new habitats, often bringing their dependents with them. Removing wildlife in humane manner requires very specific skill-sets as well as in-depth knowledge of all the animals. Although there are many DIY solutions available for all wildlife removal needs, one can never predict the results of these projects. Trained technicians can understand animals’ behaviors, predict their motives, and even know their next moves. Trained technicians can also tell if wildlife has been breeding, where the babies may be, and if wildlife has or is suffering from any injuries. Most importantly professionals have the proper gear, equipment, and animal storage and removal tools to avoid any harm to you, to the animals, or to themselves. At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we ensure your safety, as well as the safety of the animals. Our trained wildlife control technicians help relocate wildlife as per Environment Canada’s guidelines. We ensure the animals are injury and stress free during this process. We try to use one ways doors as our first solution. This involves no wildlife human interaction but if this option is not suitable we use wildlife friendly cages where animals are transported comfortable and free of restraints to their new, natural environments.

Toronto wildlife removal services have become a necessity for many home and business owners as urban wildlife number are on an increase. Due to the quick adaptability and fast- breeding nature, wildlife quickly adjusts to their new environments and they promptly pass this knowledge down to their offspring, creating a smarter generation of unwanted guests. Once an animal has established a home, they like to keep it. Any female offspring raised here, will also want to return to the same place to have their own litters. Given many of the wildlife are extremely intelligent, it is quite possible for this to take place. For many reasons aside from the simple attachment issues, it is very imperative to remove all wildlife as soon as possible before it becomes a matter of a serious infestation problem.

How to Avoid Toronto Wildlife Removal Services

  • Lock up all recyclables and garbage in animal proof bins, ensure lids are securely closed at all times
  • Take garbage and recyclables out often
  • Remove any and all uneaten pet foods from pets’ bowls, remove all bird feeders at night
  • Caution neighbors against wildlife feeding, contact your local council if problem persists
  • Survey the structure of your home regularly, be aware of all cracks and holes and ensure proper measures are taken to fix these deficiencies
  • Keep your home clean and organized, don’t leave opened packages of food out or overnight
  • Keep your yard tidy by removing all unnecessary items and debris. Mow your lawn, and rake leaves regularly
  • Ensure doors and windows are closed, as most wildlife are superior climbers
  • Screen entry points and maintain fencing

Our Approach to Toronto Wildlife Removal

While there are different approaches trained technicians can use such as no trapping, or lethal trapping; we like to use the One Way Door or the Live Trapping method at SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated. This method allows use to trap the wildlife to ensure successful captivity, but it also allows us to inspect the animals to ensure they are uninjured before releasing them back into the wild. If animals are captured at the time of birthing/nesting period, we place them in protected boxes and ensure they are located to a safe environment, no further than 1 km away from the location of captivity, as per provincial guidelines. We provide the Toronto and GTA residents, humane wildlife removal services.

Wildlife Fun Facts:

  • On the mammal IQ scale, raccoons rank higher than cats, and just below monkeys
  • Squirrels are extremely intelligent: they are known to put elaborate bogus food burying display to deceive onlookers. The purpose of this fake burial is to trick potential thieves: other squirrels
  • Skunks are nocturnal. They sleep during the day and look for food at night
  • Opossums have remarkable ability to find food and remember its source. When tested for ability to remember where food it, opossums scored better than rats, rabbits, and dogs. They can also find their way through a maze faster than rodents and cats.

At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we provide superior Toronto Wildlife Removal services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Let us help you solve your wildlife problems. We easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for a thorough inspection to help evacuate all your unwanted wildlife guests.

Pigeon Control

Last Updated: May 2016

While squirrels and raccoons tend to run away, birds; especially pigeons, aren’t necessarily intimidated by being in close proximity with people in Toronto. Because they’re not scared of people, pigeon control has become a serious need for residents all over the Greater Toronto Area. Pigeons are acclimated to living in urban environments, creating their nests around all types of structures. While houses and shorter buildings are more popular among pigeons to call home, they have recently started trying out the higher lifestyle monopolizing condo balconies, window ledges, patios and terraces. It causes even more of a problem to the residents of these structures because pigeons usually travel and live in flocks.

The common pigeons taking over the structures in our city are called “feral pigeons”. They are urban, and can co-habitate with people in the same space without being frightened. They are mainly dark blue/grey, sometimes have white or lighter specs on their wings, have glossy greenish iridescence around the neck, and have red feet and legs. On average they are about 35 cm’s long, with approximately 65-70 cm’s of wingspan. They breed all year around with spring and summer being the peak breeding periods. Feral pigeons usually nest and breed on or in buildings with roof voids being the most popular location. Feral pigeons can live up to 15 years. Long lifespan of pigeons often result in permanent living habits as far as locations go, requiring a pigeon control need for residents.

Pigeon Characteristics

  • They can fly at an altitude of up to 7000 feet
  • They fly at an average speed of 80 mph
  • They fly on average 600-700 miles per day
  • They are known for their intelligence and complexity
  • Pigeons are one of the only small number of species in the world to pass the “mirror test”, a test of self-recognition
  • Pigeons have outstanding navigational abilities and excellent memory, they use the sun as a guide, but a study has shown that they also use landmarks, signposts, and roads. Their excellent ability to remember helps them find their homes and food without any difficulty
  • They mate for life and raise their chicks as partners
  • They have excellent hearing abilities, and can sense distant storms and volcanoes

Often times, and in reasonable proximity from one another, it’s very common to see bird food put out for pigeons on the streets of Toronto. This could be a result of a religious ceremony performed by many different religions, or just an act of humanity as many people put out bird food and/or bread crumbs out solely for feeding purposes. This can create a situation where an ongoing pigeon control measures may be necessary.  As pigeons have excellent memory, they tend to come back to areas where they can easily get fed, and bring food to their nests to feed their partners and chicks. Although it’s an act of humanity to feed the birds, it creates a problem for many people, as their feathers and droppings monopolize people’s properties, windowsills, roofs, and balconies etc. Aside from causing and unappealing presence of one’s property, pigeons are also known carriers of diseases such as salmonella, tuberculosis, and ornithosis. They are also a source of allergens, which cause respiratory discomfort as well as allergic skin reactions.

Pigeon Control Services

When faced with a pigeon control problem, one’s first instinct is to look for Do-It-Yourself solutions. Unlike rodents, raccoons, or skunks; it is often assumed that pigeons are an easier problem for people to handle themselves. In some cases, this can be true, in most; unfortunately that’s not the case. As per above, pigeons are extremely intelligent. Before resorting to any DIY options, one has to understand the capacity of the pigeon problem. One of the problems could be daytime perching, where pigeons use buildings as a point of food source. Another problem is overnight roosting, where pigeons use buildings to protect themselves at night and sleep. Another problem could be breeding. Needless to say, each of these problems would require a different type of solution. It is also crucial to understand that no matter what action one has taken to deter pigeons, it is possible that one may simply move the problem from one area to the other. This could be a frustrating and expensive experience. As with other unwanted animals and critters, pigeon control is a service that can be provided by experts. At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we can take care of all of your pigeon/bird related problems. We use spikes and netting depending on your needs. We install these deterrents in a timely fashion for quick and effective results.  Not only do we use a humane technique, we also provide an ultimately permanent outcome.

If your immediate property does not require any professional pigeon control services, but you do have relevant problems in your area, you can resort to alternative options. If you live/work in an area occupied heavily by fast food outlets, and this is attracting pigeons to your area, you can contact Environment Canada for an inspection. If it’s an instance of deliberate feeding of pigeons, you can contact your respective local council. You can find your local council contacts on the City of Toronto website. There are many ways to go about when it comes to solutions for a pigeon control problem. From understanding the more basic pigeon problems yourself, to contacting the city, to getting help from the experts, don’t let pigeons be a burden to your life. Contact the experts that can provide permanent solutions quickly.

At SOS Wildlife Control Incorporated, we provide seamless pigeon control services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Let us help you solve your pigeon/bird problems. We can easily be reached at 1-800-981-0330. Don’t wait and call us to schedule an appointment for your pigeon removal needs.

Bird Removal Service

Last Updated: May 2016

Birds are opportunistic animals just like raccoons, squirrels, skunks and other wildlife who seek out their three primary needs – food, shelter and heat. The same needs as humans! This is often the reason you will find wildlife in your home, as you have met these needs and are seen as a resource. Birds being opportunistic will find a gap in your roof and enter your attic where it is also nice and quiet for them to nest. Even though birds are a nice sight, they can be  a nuisance when they are nesting in your home or on your property. Not only do they create a lot of noise and leave a mess with their nesting materials, feathers and droppings but their droppings pose health risks and building nests in vents is a fire hazard!

The health risks of having birds on your property are due to the spores and germs in the feces which are released into the air. Inhaling these spores can lead to lung conditions or even meningitis.

Birds build their nests in vents, blocking them. Each year they continue to bring more material into the vent which increases the fire hazard risk. Damage to air conditioning equipment, industrial machines, insulation, roofs, fascia and soffits, and structural issues are often observed as a result of pest-birds, birds in vents in turn requiring bird control or  bird removal. Getting the birds out and cleaning the droppings and removing hazard risks is essential. However as birds are a creature of habit, often returning to the same area over and over again, not only do you need bird removal Toronto you need to wildlife proof these areas too.

Before touching the birds or the nest you need to check the law. In Ontario most birds, including their nests and eggs are protected under law – The Migratory Bird Treaty. But depending on the type of bird, different rules apply. You may need approval from the Ministry of Natural Resources before removing a nest or eggs.

There are three birds indigenous to North America that are considered nuisance pests and are not protected under law. They are the Sparrow, Starling and Pigeon. For other bird species you can check the Ministry’s website for more information.

Bird Removal Toronto / Bird Prevention

The most common practice for bird removal Toronto in the wildlife control field is to use deterrents. The most commonly used and effective solutions are deterrents like bird spikes, netting, scare devices shock tracts and trapping. The most common tactic used is bird spikes.

Bird Spikes

Bird spikes are installed upon flat services where the birds nest like ledges and signs. Spikes are the most common used as they are durable and effective. The spikes don’t hurt the bird but make it impossible for them to land. Even though they may be an eye sore they are better than unsightly and unsanitary bird feces. Bird spikes are attached using a very strong adhesive so they are durable. Each spike strip can range from 3 inches to 7 inches depending on the area to be covered.

Bird Netting

Bird netting is used to exclude birds from much larger areas such as balconies or parking garages. Bird netting is extremely durable and can be expected to last many years. A stainless steel cable is attached around the perimeter of the area to be excluded and the net is attached using small steel rings. It is a permanent solution providing excellent control.

Shock Track

Shock track is a discreet bird deterrent system that has the advantage of deterring all species of birds. It employs an intermittent electric pulse which while unpleasant, does not injure birds in any way. The track is less than an inch in height so it is excellent in areas where aesthetics are important.

Trapping

There is an option to trap the animal and release them elsewhere, however birds are great navigators and can return. Using the one way door is our standard preferred method as trapping and removing is not a permanent solution. Trapping is used usually on larger buildings. One way doors are our preferred method rather than trapping and relocating. One way doors are specially designed doors which allow the animal to exit the property and not reenter.

To bird proof your home, the birds are first removed, the area is cleaned to remove all feces and  then either the spikes, shock tracks or netting are attached.

Birds are a creature of habit, often returning to the same area again and again, not only do you remove the birds you need to wildlife proof these areas too

The best solution for your bird problem is a humane, cost effective permanent pest management strategy like any or the above. If you are unsure of the species you have you can call us and we can help you identify the bird. Birds are a nuisance to both businesses and home owners because of their tendency to roost and nest inside buildings. Birds nesting in a stove vent or attic is a significant nuisance and their ability to carry and spread disease is easily equal to that of rats. If you have Starlings, Pigeons or Sparrows, call us for bird removal Toronto on 647-994-9453.

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