What to do when you encounter wildlife in your community

As our cities expand, it’s becoming increasingly common to spot raccoons, skunks, squirrels, foxes and other wildlife in urban areas. These animals are highly adaptable and have learned to thrive in neighbourhoods, taking advantage of food and shelter sources provided, often unintentionally, by people. While seeing wildlife can be exciting, it’s important to remember that these animals are best left wild. Here’s what you can do to peacefully coexist with urban wildlife. 

Wildlife-proof your home and property 

The best way to avoid conflicts is through prevention. Animals are resourceful when it comes to finding food and shelter, so taking steps to make your property less inviting will go a long way. 

• Secure garbage and compost: Use wildlife-resistant bins with tight-fitting lids. Put garbage out the morning of collection instead of the night before. 

• Remove food sources: Pick up fallen fruit, clean your barbecue, and never leave pet food outdoors. 

• Block entry points: Inspect your home for gaps in siding, rooflines, decks or sheds where animals could nest. Seal openings with durable materials like wire mesh or metal flashing, but only after you are sure no animals are inside. 

• Yard care: Keep grass trimmed, clear brush piles, and use enclosed composters to reduce hiding spots and attractants. 

The problem with trapping 

It may seem like setting a trap to remove an unwanted animal is the simplest solution, but trapping and relocating wildlife is not recommended and is regulated under provincial law Many animals don’t survive the stress of relocation and moving them can create a host of other problems, such as spreading disease and separating mothers from their young.  

Relocated animals often struggle to find food, water or shelter in unfamiliar areas. Instead, focus on prevention and humane deterrents such as motion-activated lights or sprinklers, removing attractants, and using one-way doors to encourage animals to leave a space, such as an attic, on their own. 

Why feeding wildlife does more harm than good 

Offering food to wildlife might feel like an act of kindness, but it can cause significant harm. Animals that become accustomed to being fed by people can lose their natural fear of humans, increasing the risk of conflict or injury. Supplemental feeding can also lead to overcrowding, spread disease, and create unhealthy diets for animals that are adapted to forage naturally. The best way to support wildlife is to allow them to find their own food sources. Learn more by checking out our blog on Why feeding wildlife does more harm than good. 

Living together 

Wildlife play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. By making small changes around your home, avoiding harmful practices like trapping or feeding, and respecting animals from a distance, we can ensure that humans and wildlife can coexist safely. 

For more tips and resources on living with wildlife, visit our blog. 

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.