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News, little truths and wisdom regarding Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Control, Falconry, and Birds of Prey....
Is The Andean Condor Actually Considered a Bird Of Prey?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
We were about to write an article about the largest Bird(s) of Prey when we got hung up on whether or not the Andean Condor falls into that category. Who could foresee the debate that sparked!? So, here are our findings:
The Andean condor (Vultur Gryphus) is the largest flying bird in the world. It is often associated with majesty and power, commanding respect due to its humongous size and wingspan. The Andean Condor makes its home in South America, in the Andes Mountains. Because of its size and weight - up to 15 kg! - it needs some height to start with on take-off. Think a hang glider pushing off the mountain - that's the Andean Condor. It is usually classified as a bird of prey but there has been some argument in the scientific community as to whether it really fits this classification. In exploring this argument it’s essential we define the characteristics of a bird of prey, its diet and feeding habits, and also to consider its ecological role.
Birds of Prey, or Raptors, are defined by several Basic Characteristics:
- Carnivorous diet: Raptors hunt and feed on other animals, ranging from insects and birds to mammals.
- Excellent Vision: Raptors possess unparalleled eyesight allowing them to see prey from great distances.
- Active Hunters: Raptors are active hunters, seeking and capturing live prey.
- Sharp Talons and Beak: Raptors use their sharp talons to catch and kill their prey and have a hooked beak devised for tearing the flesh of their catch.
Birds of prey include eagles, owls, hawks and falcons. All of these birds share the previous traits listed. Vultures are often included in the list of birds of prey, although many question if they are truly raptors. as they are known as scavengers that usually eat already dead animals.
Feeding Habits and Drive
The diet and feeding habits of the Andean Condor is mostly that of a scavenger, much like a vulture. It hunts for carrion, or dead and often decaying animals, such as livestock, deer, or small mammals, whether they died of natural causes or are left overs from another animal’s kill. The Andean Condor does not possess the active drive and predatory behaviours usually associated with raptors like hawks and eagles.
Physical Characteristics
The Andean Condor possesses many of the same physical traits as a bird of prey. It has the same large hooked beak to tear the flesh of the carrion it eats. The talons are not as sharp or strong as those of a typical raptor because it doesn’t need to grip or kill live prey, like an eagle or falcon does.
The Andean Condor is well know for its spectacular soaring ability. With a wingspan that can reach over 3 metres, it is able to fly over great distances, catching thermal winds to soar barely flapping its wings. This conserves its energy and enables it to stay aloft longer and cover greater distances in search of food. Birds of prey are also able to soar to great heights and catch thermals to stay aloft in order to search for food. The condor is not nearly as fast or agile and other raptors since it doesn’t need to catch live prey. This fact further sets it apart from other more agile, skillful and faster predators that make up the raptor category.
The condor has excellent vision, similar to other raptors, in that it can see great distances from high altitudes in order to spot its next meal. The Andean Condor is vital to the ecosystem for cleaning up the environment by eating the dead and rotting animals and preventing disease from being spread. The condor, like the vulture, has incredibly strong digestive acids that kill most bacteria and fungi. The intestinal flora of these incredible birds do the rest of the job. Andean Condors also enjoy a very strong immune system. Although it is not a predator in the traditional sense, as part of Mother Nature's clean-up crew, it still contributes significantly to the role of balancing the ecosystem, much like raptors do by controlling the populations of smaller mammals and insects.
Read more: Is The Andean Condor Actually Considered a Bird Of Prey?
Coyote or Wolf? What's the Difference?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Both, coyote and wolf have special importance in many cultures and hold spiritual symbolism. Both are thought to represent strength, wisdom, and may evoke feelings of foreboding peril. Both are revered and feared at the same time, due to their intelligence, speed, power, and prowess. But, how do you tell them apart?
Understanding Coyotes and Wolves
Telling apart a coyote and a wolf isn't terribly difficult if they appear side-by-side. Of course, that's not usually the case. You'll likely only see one or the other. So, let's look at a few coyote and wolf behaviors, some markers and characteristics that may enable us to determine if the canine we are seeing is a coyote or a wolf.
Geographical Distribution
Coyotes (their name is derived from the Aztec 'coyotl') are native to North and Central America but most prominent throughout Canada and the United States. Wolves can be found throughout North America, Europe, and even in Asia. Wolves are highly adaptable and inhabit a wide range of terrains including temperate forests, mountains, tundra, taiga, grasslands, and deserts. Coyote and wolf habitats are not unlike; both species can be seen in similar habitats in Canada.
In recent years, coyotes have moved in to suburbs and even urban neighbourhoods (and caused some havoc, too). Wolves really are much less inclined to hang around people; they may linger around farms and livestock, though.
Coyote or Wolf? 7 Easy Ways to Tell These Canines Apart
1. Size and Body Shape Differences
There's a huge difference in size and weight between coyotes and wolves. As with most canines, the male is generally larger and heavier than the female.
Coyote
The average coyote will weigh 25-40lbs, although animals weighing as much as 55lbs have been recorded. Overall, coyotes have a fairly slim frame.
Wolf
The wolf is the largest member of the dog, or Canid, family, with a body weight of 40-145lbs (so more than double the size of a coyote) and a more stocky or bulky silhouette. What we see here in Ontario is most likely the Gray Wolf, or occasionally a Timber Wolf.
2. Facial Features and Expressions
Not unlike our trusted companion, man's best friend, both coyotes and wolves not only communicate through facial expressions and body language, but also show their personality in face and body. While there are a few expressions understood by all, there are many nuances that are pack or even animal specific. Experessions common across all canine species are anger or aggression (raised lips, showing teeth, crinkled nose, ears pinned). Also, the lower the rank in the pack, the more elaborate their facial expressions; higher ranking or more dominant animals seem get their point across by status alone.
Coyote
Coyotes have a narrow face with a long and fairly slim snout. Their ears are wide set, large and pointy. The eyes are yellow and they are capable of making 'puppy dog eyes' - you know, that 'pleeeeease' look that happens when the inner corners of the eyebrows are raised.
Wolf
Wolves have a broader face, a wider snout and shorter, more rounded ears. Joy is expressed by ears pointing forward and pulling the corners of the lips back and a dropping of the jaw, resulting in a 'smile' that is characteristic for Northern dog breeds as well (think huskie, malamute, chow, spitz, etc.)
How Long Are Skunks Pregnant?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
It's the middle of February and while we are still trotting through feet of snow and dream of colourful cocktails by the pool, our friend, the skunk is stirring and dreaming of family additions. Come along as we explore the mating habits and breeding season of skunks and what that might mean for you as a home owner in Ontario.
How Long Are Skunks Pregnant?: Skunk Mating Season
Skunks are emerging from winter dens during the months of February and March – on the lookout for a perfect mating partner. Older and more experienced females will generally come into season earlier than first time mums and sometimes unusually warm or cold temperatures may play a role as well. While the ladies are looking for one partner, the males may mate with several (or, as many as available) females in one breeding season. We generally think of skunks as nocturnal animals but, it is actually not that uncommon to see skunks during the daytime. If there is food to be had, if a mid day snooze is interrupted, if one is feeling amorous, and definitely if there are babies… you might see one or more skunks on the road. Hopefully, you'll see them strutting down the road engaged in the pursuit of skunk reproduction and not laying by the side of it; sadly, many skunks end up struck and killed by motor vehicles.
Skunk Courtship Behavior
So, what does it look like when boy skunk meets girl skunk and passions erupt? What happens before and during date night?
Scent Marking
Ah yes.. that 'scent'. Curiously, boy skunk and girl skunk use their unmistakable aroma for different purposes. The male will leave his scent behind to entice the ladies in the vicinity (really? That works?). While we may not be able to discern a difference, apparently, not all skunks smell the same. Two or more males may also end up fighting over mating rights and spray their opponents. Females, on the other hand, will signal their utter disapproval by releasing their spray. There's nothing like a puff of smelly air to relay a 'no, thank you' message to an unsuccessful suitor.
Vocalizations
Yep. Skunks actually make sounds. Who knew? Male skunks will let out a series of grunts and growls during courtship. Those are low pitched sounds that can be heard over a fair distance and intended to communicate dominance and suitability to the ladies in the area. During actual mating, the male will produce a high pitched squeal, while the female can be heard 'purring'. Outside of mating rituals skunks also do some lip smacking to convey contentment and mothers may stomp their feet to drive off a threat to her offspring.
Chase Behavior
Male skunks will not chase female skunks during mating season. They will, however, chase and fight each other - for the right to pursue a female. The female has the last word and makes the decision of who gets to father her offspring. Once the deed is done, the male will wonder off in pursuit of another mate.
Skunk Gestation Period
In a rather genius move by Mother Nature, a female skunk can 'save' the male’s sperm by storing it separately from her eggs and delay pregnancy until the weather warms up a bit or she otherwise deems conditions to be acceptable. Once impregnated, Momma Skunk will carry her kits for about 60-70 days before giving birth - a fairly lengthy gestation period. An average skunk litter consists of about 4-7 little ones, but as many as 10 have been recorded. Only one litter is born per year.
Why Property Managers Need Bird and Animal Control
- Written by: Dan Frankian
- Property Managers are responsible for the appearance of the properties they look after.
- They must also look out for the health and safety of tenants, employees, customers, and visitors.
- Property Managers must prevent structural damage to the buildings they maintain.
- They must also avoid legal liabilities.
Why do Property Managers need to Worry about Bird or Animal Wildlife Control?
Property Managers are in a unique situation. Their 'charge' includes one or more buildings, tenants, employees, visitors, delivery personnel and more. Unchecked bird or animal infestation can end up leading to tremendous costs - from building repairs, to legal fees and even human life, Let's look at the potential areas of concern:
Building(s)
Birds and animals can quickly become a nuisance when they intrude on human environments. Gulls and pigeons often roost on rooftops, ledges, windowsills, HVAC units, and other structural elements. An accumulation of highly acidic droppings causes damage to the building materials. This can lead to very costly repairs to parts of a roof or even require a roof replacement. Clogged gutters and drainage systems from bird nests or animal den materials can cause leaks and water damage. Raccoons, squirrels, or rats frequently chew wiring, pull out insulation in the process of nest building, urinate on exposed wiring and possibly cause fires or other hazardous conditions. The cost of repairing these damages will be significant.
Steel corrosion and subsequent failure due to bird guano (bird excrement) is a huge concern. This can have catastrophic consequences, especially when we talk about high rise buildings. Whole bridges have been brought down by such corrosion.
Drywall replacement becomes necessary when animals urinate or defecate on or near drywall. Mold is also a concern if wildlife gets into walls. Therefore, it is essential that property managers implement control measures before a situation escalates and to keep down damages and repair costs.
Human Health
Birds and wildlife pose significant health and safety risks due to disease, parasites, and bacteria that are harmful to people. Gulls, sparrows and pigeons can carry histoplasmosis, psittacosis, and cryptococcosis; all of these are transmitted through the droppings. When bird guano accumulates on sidewalks, entrances, or around HVAC units on the roof, the droppings dry and become airborne. Once airborne, harmful spores are carried inside the building and inhaled by anyone. People with compromised immune systems or respiratory issues can become very ill. And, of course, rabies in humans is 99% fatal.
Aside from disease, there is also the danger of physical harm from birds or animal wildlife protecting nests and/or young during breeding and nesting season.
Rats, raccoons, squirrels, and bats carry diseases, too, - leptospirosis, hantavirus, and rabies. Rodents are especially notorious for spreading disease through their urine and feces, contaminating food sources and creating unsanitary conditions. Ensuring the health and safety of tenants, visitors, employees, or customers is of the utmost importance for property managers.
Read more: Why Property Managers Need Bird and Animal Control
What Do Groundhogs Eat?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Anything in your garden! :) No, seriously, they tend to raid a garden in record time. In this article, we'll explore which foods are loved by groundhogs and likely will have them coming back for more - come along!
Understanding the Diet of our Backyard Visitor
Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are a part of the rodent family Sciuridae and belong to a group of large ground squirrels known as marmots. They are cute, short legged, and furry critters who hibernate throughout the winter and emerge from their burrows in early April. They are mostly herbivores - mostly! Occasionally, groundhogs may also like to eat insects, slugs, bird eggs and other small creatures. So, not the most committed vegetarians, they are. Interestingly, groundhogs do not require a whole lot of water. The majority of their water intake comes from moisture contained in and on leaves. All in all, what groundhogs eat and drink depends on what is readily available.
What Do Groundhogs Like to Eat?: Common Foods in a Groundhog's Diet
Vegetation and Grasses
Groundhogs can eat up to a pound and a half of vegetation every single day. That's pretty impressive for such little guys. Favorites include clover, alfalfa, dandelions, and variouses grass varieties.
Fruits and Berries
Based on seasonal availability, groundhogs will happily add all sorts of fruits and berries to their menu as well. These might include apples, pears, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries, hackberries, and mulberries.
Garden Vegetables
Oh boy. If you're an avid gardener, you'll not like groundhogs. 2 groundhogs can decimate your vegetable garden in 24 to 48 hours. They will go after broccoli, cabbage, lettuce, carrots, beans, peas, squash, peppers, tomatoes, and more. What groundhogs love to eat is very likely pretty close to everything you love to grow.
Tree Bark and Twigs
The jaw of a groundhog is strong, and the teeth grow throughout its life. Munching on twigs, sticks, acorns, and bark helps keep them sharp and trimmed. They'll also nibble on maple leaves, hickory nuts, and plant or tree roots. Roughage is a vital component of nearly every mammal's dietary requirements and digestive health.
Flower Gardens
You'll be equally unhappy about your resident groundhog's activities, if you tend to lovely flower gardens. Unfortunately, flowers such as hostas, coneflowers, sunflowers, asters, daisies, snapdragons, and even marigolds are also coveted summer menu items. Often times, not only the foliage falls prey to the groundhog, but also the roots.
Can Raccoons Hurt Cats?
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Raccoons are well known for getting into stuff, including the bowls you leave out for your kitty or the pet food you store in your garage or shed . This can lead to worries about pet safety from wildlife and unexpected and unpleasant confrontations. Let's learn more!
Can Raccoons Hurt Cats?
In short: Yes, absolutely. While we may think of raccoons as mischevious bandits, we need to remember that they are wild animals. Like all wildlife, they will retalliate if they feel cornered, threatened, or protecting young or territory. And, while cats might have an advantage when it comes to speed (although, raccoons can reach speeds of up to 15 kmh), raccoons are more powerful and can indeed seriously injure your feline companion.
Understanding Raccoon Behavior
Raccoons are curious, bold, highly intelligent, and generally unafraid critters. Highly adaptable and not just surviving, but thriving in the urban jungle of metropolitan cities such as Toronto. Did you know that Toronto has been crowned the Raccoon Capitol of the World? They aren't necessarily known to go out of their way to pick a fight, unless it's over food or territory.Luckily, most adult cats recognize the difference in size and strength when confronted by a raccoon and won't seek a fight.
But, cats and raccoons also have quite a few things in common. Did you know that raccoons also 'purr' when they are happy? Both animals are most active at night and are excellent climbers with sharp claws and teeth. Which is the precisely why physical confrontations can have dire consequences.
Raccoon Habits and Habitat
Raccoons are primarily nocturnal. So are feral and our domestic cats. So, right there is the potential for encounters. With woodland spaces becoming smaller and more scarce, raccoons have moved into our neighbourhoods and are now quite happy and successful in urban spaces. They are smart, able to learn by observation, and extremely resourceful when it comes to procuring food sources. Suburban backyards and inner city trash bins provide plenty of food and chimneys or attics in human dwellings can double nicely as denning sites.
Raccoon Aggression Triggers
The biggest trigger has got to be perceived danger to raccoon kits. Like every mother ever and anywhere, Momma raccoon will fiercely defend her den and her young. Next in line would be feeling cornered and/or threatened, closely followed by disputes over food or territory. Raccoons are generally solitary animals and do not share territories. The last and probably most dangerous reason for raccoon aggression would be the raccoon having contracted rabies and exhibiting symptoms.
Injured Short Eared Owl
- Written by: Dan Frankian
While Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control mainly deals with managing conflicts with pest birds and animal wildlife, we are occasionally called upon a rescue mission. Such was the case on October 31st, 2024. Here's what we know so far: 
The Patient: Short Eared Owl
On October 31st, 2024 an adult male short eared owl was spotted on the ground near 4th line in Halton Hills, Ontario and transported to Hawkeye in Acton. Hawkeye's Dan Frankian checked over the bird and found that the poor little guy was severely dehydrated and emaciated, suggesting that he had been on the ground for some time (likely 2-3 days). He currently weighs a mere 300 grams but we'll be working on that.
A Visit to the Veterinary Clinic
Since there were no discernable fractures, Dan packed up his little charge and drove off to meet Dr. Michael Taylor for x-rays and an expert assessment. X-rays confirmed that there are no fractures, but that the little fella suffered extensive nerve damage from overstretching of the left wing (brachial area). At this time, we have no idea what caused the trauma. The Doc also discovered some inflammation of the liver which could be entirely unrelated.
Dr. Taylor has our undying gratitude for sharing his time and expertise with us for nearly 30 years now. His knowledge of avian physiology and his aptitude for handling fragile birds of prey is unparalleled.
The Road to Recovery
Well, our little friend will enjoy some food, water, vitamins and LOTS of rest for the next 2 weeks. We'll immobilize his wing with a Figure 8 bandage to keep him still and allow for some healing to take place. We're also still waiting for his blood work to come back.
Short Eared Owl Rehabilitation
As much as we hope that this super cute little guest will make a full recovery and will be able to return to the wild, we have to prepare ourselves for the possibility that his injuries are just too severe for him to ever soar again. We will keep a close eye on him and re-evaluate in a couple of weeks. Fingers crossed.
About Short Eared Owls
Believe it or not, with all our experience and 30 years of keeping and raising birds of prey, we had never before actually seen a Short Eared Owl before today. And, this isn't how we like to meet new birds at all. But, boy, is he cute! Dan Frankian of Hawkeye is positively smitten with this little guy. He was able to hand (or finger) feed him after the owl wanted absolutely nothing to do with a dropper.
Short Eared Owl Identification
The short eared owl is a medium sized owl with very distinct big black-rimmed yellow eyes looking at you from a pale facial disk on a rounded head. Their ear tufts are so short that they may be easy to miss. Short eared owls have broad, long, and rounded wings, perfect for gliding silently over grasslands and a short tail.
Short Eared Owl Habitat
The short eared owl is one of the world's most widely distributed owls, and one of the easiest to spot in daylight. Actually, the best time to lay eyes on this medium sized owl is generally dusk or dawn. The ideal short eared owl territories include large, open areas with low vegetation, including prairies and coastal grasslands. Winter habitat may also include man made dwellings, such as dumps, gravel pits, and rock quarries. Short-eared Owls can travel incredibly long distances; they have been seen descending on ships hundreds of miles from any land mass.
Found a Fledgling Bird? Here's How to Help (Or Not Help)
- Written by: Dan Frankian
If you're seeing a seemingly young bird on the ground, you may be inclined to rush in to help. Slow down :) This may well be a fledgling bird, learning the art of flying. Before hurrying to its aid, observe from a distance instead. There's a good chance you will find that this little tweeter just needed a quick rest before setting out on another test flight.
What is The Fledgling Stage?
At the fledgling stage, an up and coming youngster will start venturing out of the nest and discover the world around him. He won't yet have reached full adult plumage, and will need a bit more practice before becoming the stealthy bomber he is destined to become. There will be much hopping and fluttering before this little bird will soar.
What is a Bird Fledgling?
A fledgling is a young bird almost ready to leave the nest for good and fend for itself - sporting its first set of feathers, getting the hang of gripping a branch, and capable of moving about on its own. Mum and dad will likely be close by to supervise and lend a helping hand (wing?) if warranted. By this time, our little birdie is 2-3 weeks old (depending on species) and ready to learn the skills needed for survival on its own.
Normal Fledgling Behavior
Fledglings will attempt short flights and practice graceful landings as their flight muscles develop. This may look clumsy at first and even end in the occasional unscheduled emergency landing. At this point one also gets to where one needs to go by hopping and walking. Part of the life skill lessons taught by its parents now is finding and identifying food. What a fledgling bird eats or what you could possibly feed a fledgling bird includes small insects and larvae, worms, and all sorts of seeds and berries. Also important to learn is how to recognize and evade predators. Those will consist of a number of birds of prey, feral cats, and our domesticated friends as well.
Read more: Found a Fledgling Bird? Here's How to Help (Or Not Help)
When Do Squirrels Have Babies?: Breeding Timeline
- Written by: Dan Frankian
The Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus Carolinensis) is what we typically see in Ontario. While called the Eastern Grey squirrel, it actually isn't necessarily grey coloured but can appear black, grey, or brindle. There is a theory that the darker the squirrel, the better equipped for cold climates it is - that black coloured Eastern Grey squirrels have a geneting mutation that allows for better adaptation to low temperatures.
In contrast to the lesser present Red Squirrel, these agile and entertaining acrobats have generally two breeding seasons. Join us as we explore the factors influencing the reproductive cycles of squirrels!
Squirrel Breeding Season: When Do Squirrels Have Babies?
In Ontario, squirrel babies are born in spring and often again, in the fall season. First time squirrel mothers will often have just one litter in their first year of sexual maturity. Scent plays a large role in squirrel mating and breeding rituals. No, famale squirrels will not spritz the Chanel No 5 kind of scent, but rather mark their territory and signal their ability and willingness to mate. In turn, nearby males will then evalulate the information gathered from the scent left for them and pursue the lady of their choice, with the strongest, most dominant, and often older males having a bit of an advantage. The courting ritual consists of a noisy mating chase by one or more males pursuing the female through the trees. Ms Squirrel, however, is the one in charge here. SHE will determine who gets the privilege of being her baby daddy. Both male and female squirrels may have multiple partners in one breeding season, although the first male to mate with a female is usually the one to impregnate her. He will leave a waxy plug in her vagina and thus blocking other male's sperm.
Spring Breeding
Spring squirrel mating and breeding season kicks into high gear between December and January and extending into February, depending on the severity of the winter and availability of food. Momma will give birth to her squirrel kits after a roughly 44 day getstation period to one to six wee ones, with older and more experienced females having larger litters. Squirrel nesting behavior means that her little ones will stay with her in the nest exclusively for at least six weeks (that's why you generally won't see very small squirrels in your yard) and then set out on their own after mum deems their survival training complete. This frees mum up to consider one more litter.
Fall Breeding
If not first time/season moms, Eastern Grey squirrels will often breed again between June and August, with the fall litter usually arriving late summer or early fall. These little ones will be ready to leave home and explore the world on their own just before winter. Mum will have taught them the art of nest building, but they may also choose to renovate an existing abanoned nest. Red squirrels will sit this one out; they only breed once in the spring.
Factors Influencing Squirrel Breeding
It makes sense that newborn squirrels aren't arriving in the midst of winter. As with all species, little ones need warmth and mum has to be able to feed herself while nursing, and then her offspring. Squirrels do not hibernate and are active throughout the winter. They are master architects when it comes to nest building. both for child rearing and to survive our harsh winters - learn more about squirrel nests and dreys »
Seasonality
The spring breeding is the one shared by all squirrels, although the mating actually takes place while winter is still in full swing. The fall (or late summer) squirrel breeding season observed by the Eastern Greay squirrel seems to be much more in line with sumer fun and frolicking in the sunset :)
Read more: When Do Squirrels Have Babies?: Breeding Timeline
How to Stop Skunks From Digging Up Your Lawn
- Written by: Dan Frankian
So, you step outside on a beautiful summer morning, coffee in hand, slippers on feet, and discover your prized lawn looking like a battlefield. Your meticulous yard got torn up into little clumps and your spring bulbs were dug up to boot... you may well be looking at the aftermath of a hunting and gathering expedition led by an industrious skunk. Let's see what can be done about putting a stop to this, shall we?
Why Skunks Dig Up Lawns
It's disheartening, for sure, to find your yard in such a state and we will get to how you can stop a skunk from digging up your lawn. But first, let's look at the motivations behind this late night assault.
Foraging for Grubs and Insects
Skunks are creatures of the night - nocturnal, that is, not vampires - and so are one of their main staple foods: grubs. Because skunks have pretty poor eyesight and vision care is hard to come by, their acute sense of smell (how ironic is that!?) is what helps them locate grubs and insects beneath your grass. They are prolific diggers and quite skilled at unearthing those tasty treats.
Hunting for Earthworms & Seeking Out Larvae
Earthworms, various larvae, and even some bees are also on your resident skunk's menu. And, of course, they also live below ground and require the use of sharp claws to be harvested.
Creating Den Sites
If you find the main excavation efforts are not in the middle of your lawn but rather near structures like your porch or shed, it may indicate an entirely different reason for the all-nighter. A young expectant mother may be feeling the urge to nest and create a cozy home for the soon-to-arrive family additions.
Marking Territory
While not directly related to digging, once your skunk has evaluated your yard and found it to be pleasant and plentiful, he or she may be leaving little bits of spray here and there to proclaim your yard occupied territory. In this case, of course, there is no guess work needed to determine what type of critter has been launching warfare on your beloved lawn and garden.
Humane Skunk Trapping Dos and Don'ts
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Ahh, the unmistakable aroma of a skunk! Is it hanging around your home? The skunk AND the smell? Well, it may be time to issue an eviction notice to your furry visitors. Let's have a look at why they may hang around your home and yard and how you can reclaim your space.
Why Do Skunks Enter Urban Areas?
Skunks are actually quite timid, but opportunistic little creatures. They generally won't go out of their way to pick a fight (except perhaps with your chickens or other poultry livestock) but their presence is not desirable, for a host of reasons. One of those reasons is the potential of being rabies carriers, and concern for the saftety of your pets and your family. Other reasons include nuisance damage in your yard and garden, and yes, that lovely aroma that can linger for weeks and make you want to keep your doors and windows closed, no matter the weather.
Food Availability
The number one reason for skunks arriving and choosing to stay around your property is food. Well, food and water. From your well intentioned bowls set out for your pets to the grubs in your lawn and the goodies in your vegetable garden. From the eggs in your chicken coop to the chickens, quail, or other birds themselves, Being fond of dead things as well, your trash bin and compost are also mighty attractive. And then, there's an abundance of mice, moles, voles, rats, songbirds and their eggs, and carcasses as well as grasshoppers, wasps, bees, crickets, beetles, and beetle larvae. So, you see, your yard makes for a convenient one-stop shop.
Shelter
Then, of course, there is shelter. All creatures need shelter - from the elements, from predators, and to raise a family. And again, your yard may provide some high quality real estate. The space below your deck or porch is perfect for tucking away for a mid-day snooze, as is any hollow tree, unused machinery, or unsecured shed. Skunks are most active at night and prefer a quiet, low traffic area to rest during the day.
Reduced Predation
When it comes to predators, your yard may be a safer option for the skunk, but said skunk may invite larger predators to your yard. In the wild, skunks fall prey to coyotes, fox, bobcats, and even large birds of prey (mostly owls). You likely don't have a whole lot of those animals residing in your backyard, so that's a good thing for the skunk. But, if you allow the skunk to stay in and around your yard, you may well end up with one of those predators going after the skunk, and that's going to open a whole new can of.. well, any of those.
The Difference Between Goose Control And Goose Removal
- Written by: Dan Frankian
Canada Geese, while a familiar and somewhat nostalgic sight, do cause a fair bit of headache and damage in urban, suburban, and rural areas. If you are seeking solutions to mitigate geese, we should talk about whether you want to control geese or remove them. Join us as we explore the diffrences.
Deciding Between Goose Control and Goose Removal
- Goose Control and Goose Removal are terms that are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are actually two very different approaches to wildlife management.
- Knowing the difference can help you choose the right strategy for your goose related problems.
- Do you want to manage the population of geese on your property or remove them altogether?
- Are the geese an occasional nuisance during migration or for a few weeks in the summer months? OR - Do the geese cause significant damage to your property or pose a health risk to people or pets?
- Both goose control and goose removal require permits from the government. The Canada Goose is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which is an agreement between many countries around the world.
What IsThe Difference Between Goose Control And Goose Removal?
The difference is the objective. Do you want to manage the population (the numbers) of geese or do you want all of them to move on to somewhere else? Geese Control attempts to limit or maintain the number of geese while Geese Removal moves the flock off of a property. Let's look at how this can be accomplished:
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