Scampering across treetops and darting through backyards, squirrels are a common sight in Toronto’s bustling neighbourhoods. While these furry foragers can be endearing to watch, they often invite themselves over in less than welcome ways. Homeowners looking for effective wildlife removal in Toronto frequently encounter challenges on how to manage these nimble neighbours. 

Understanding the different types of squirrels is the first step to figuring out how to get rid of squirrels in your yard without causing harm to them. This informative guide from Skedaddle’s experts will provide you with the insight necessary to identify your bushy-tailed visitors. Discover the distinct markings, behaviours, and habitats of the various squirrel species that thrive in our urban environment, equipping you with the knowledge to coexist peacefully with our wildlife.

The Risks of a Squirrel Infestation

Before we focus on the specifics, it’s crucial to understand the dangers and damage potential of a squirrel infestation. Squirrels are crafty creatures. Once they’ve identified a cozy, secluded spot in your home, they’ll chew virtually anything to create a nest. Electrical wiring, structural timber, and even plumbing are all at risk. To compound matters, squirrels aren’t exactly clean and tidy guests. Their nesting and food storage activity can create a mess that’s not only unsightly but also poses sanitation concerns.

Their entry points are often non-obvious. You might think sealing a relatively large hole is sufficient, but squirrels are proficient chewers and can gnaw their way through surprisingly small openings. Beyond the structural threats, squirrels in the home also increase the likelihood of other pests like fleas and ticks, which can introduce health risks.

Identifying Squirrel Species in Toronto

Understanding what kind of squirrels are causing your concern is the first step in handling the situation effectively. The city of Toronto is primarily home to three types of squirrels you might encounter in your urban forest or, less desirably, your attic:

• The Eastern Grey Squirrel: The Eastern Grey Squirrel, with its silver-grey fur, is perhaps the most recognizable and common type found in Toronto. They’re not picky eaters, which has contributed to their vast range and substantial population. Named for their predominant colour, they can also exhibit shades of brown or even black. They’re a medium-sized squirrel with a characteristic bushy tail and are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day.
• The Eastern Fox Squirrel: Larger than their grey cousins, Eastern Fox Squirrels also feature a more varied coat, with shades of red, orange, and gold mixed in with the typical greys and browns. These are the sociable outliers of the squirrel world, choosing to spend time on the ground rather than aloft in trees as much as their cousins do.
• The Red Squirrel: While not as common in the city core, the Red Squirrel is found in southern Ontario and can occasionally encroach on more urban environments, particularly when habitats are disrupted. Small and fleet-footed, their reddish coats and characteristic white eye rings can help you distinguish them from other species.

When to Call in the Professionals

Every Toronto homeowner should arm themselves with the knowledge to identify these furry invaders. However, attempting to manage a squirrel infestation on your own can be dangerous and often ineffective. They’re persistent and are drawn to safe and secure nesting sites. Even if you manage to chase them out, without proper exclusion techniques, they’ll be back, often with others in tow.

This is where Skedaddle, Toronto’s leading wildlife control experts, step in. Professionals with a deep understanding of squirrel behaviour, life cycles, and exclusion techniques, our Skedaddle team ensures that your home is not only vacated but also sealed against future intrusions. Our commitment to humane removal methods means you can trust us to solve your squirrel problem with care and compassion for both your home and Toronto’s precious wildlife.

Why Skedaddle is the Best Choice for Wildlife Removal in Toronto

What sets Skedaddle apart in the realm of wildlife control? First and foremost, it’s our people. Our seasoned professionals are certified and thoroughly trained in the most effective and innovative wildlife management techniques. We’re constantly evolving our approach to stay at the forefront of our field. We also understand the delicate balance between urban development and wildlife conservation, and we’re committed to protecting both.

Then there’s our dedication to service excellence. From the first phone call to the completion of your service, you can expect a seamless, supportive experience. We’ll guide you through the process, explain our methods, and leave you with a home that’s secure against future wildlife threats. With our unmatched 30 years in business, we bring the wisdom and foresight to handle any wildlife control scenario, big or small.

The Humane Remove-and-Release Approach

One of the cornerstones of Skedaddle’s philosophy is our commitment to humane practices. Unlike other services, our techniques focus on evicting unwanted wildlife without injury or undue stress using one-way doors.

This approach not only adheres to ethical guidelines but also holds up under scrutiny as an effective control method. When we humanely remove squirrels from your home, you can be confident that your property won’t simply become a revolving door for the local wildlife.

The Skedaddle Process

When you partner with Skedaddle for wildlife control, you’re engaging with a comprehensive process designed to address every aspect of your wildlife concerns.

• Assessment: Our thorough inspection of your property allows us to identify entry points, nesting locations, and any potential attractants like pet food or unsecured garbage.
• Removal: We safely remove the offending squirrels from your home using two-way doors. We then perform structural repairs to ensure they don’t return.
• Exclusion: We implement a multi-step exclusion strategy tailored to your home. This might involve sealing entry points, protecting vulnerable areas with specialized barrier methods, and reducing accessibility to food and shelter.
• Sanitization and Restoration: We clean and repair any damage caused by the squirrels, sanitize affected areas to eliminate health risks, and restore your home to its pre-infestation condition.

The Skedaddle process is a proven formula for success, restoring peace of mind and ensuring the long-term protection of your home.

Your Toronto Wildlife Control Plan

Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with the threats and the players in the squirrel saga, it’s time to create your action plan. The best strategy in wildlife control is a proactive one. Here are the steps to incorporate Skedaddle’s approach into your approach:

Step 1. Evaluation

Examine your property from the perspective of a squirrel. Look for any potential entry points, especially those near trees, roofs, or vents. Toronto’s older homes, with their classic architecture, often have intricate yet highly vulnerable points.

Step 2. Deterrents

In addition to regular home maintenance to keep roofs, eaves, and attics inaccessible, consider placing barriers and spreading squirrel-repellent substances around strategic points. These can be effective in deterring first-time would-be invaders.

Step 3. Action

At the first sign of a squirrel infestation—like noises in the attic, chewed wires, or visible squirrels in your living space—act decisively. Call Skedaddle for an expert evaluation and action plan that addresses your specific situation.

Step 4. Prevention

Once the squirrels are removed, it’s critical to prevent their return. This involves sealing entry points, maintaining a clean and uncluttered property, and ensuring that no food sources are readily available.

Step 5. Reflection

After a successful wildlife control intervention, reflect on what measures worked best for your property. If needed, make any necessary adjustments to your efforts to keep the wily squirrels at bay.

Final Thoughts on Toronto’s Wildlife

Squirrels are a lovable part of Toronto’s wildlife diversity, but they can become a major nuisance if they breach the boundaries of your home. Understanding the different types of squirrels, their habits, and what to do if they take up residence in your property is essential knowledge for any conscientious homeowner in the greater Toronto area.

Remember, when it comes to wildlife control, safe and effective removal is best left to the professionals. Skedaddle is the leading choice for Toronto residents seeking a partner in humane and lasting wildlife control solutions. With our expertise and commitment to service, we’ll ensure your home remains your sanctuary from the city’s wild heart.

Don’t wait until squirrels have disrupted your peace and routine. Take charge of your property’s protection today with a call to Skedaddle. Our comprehensive wildlife control services are just a phone call away. We pledge to restore your home to its full squirrel-free potential, safeguarded for the future.