Co-Existing with Suburban Wildlife

March 3^rd is World Wildlife Day; a United Nations International day to celebrate all the world's wild animals and plants and the roles they play in the ecosystem! This year’s theme is "Partnerships for wildlife conservation."

As much as wild animals tend to keep their distance from humans, most wildlife species can thrive when living near people. Animals such as skunks, opossums, deer, raccoons, foxes, squirrels, and coyotes can be seen our local neighbourhoods.

In light of this year’s theme, here are some tips to co-exist with the Urban and Suburban wildlife you may find around your home.

Remove bird feeders if problem wildlife species are seen around the feeders: Direct feeding, can alter an animal’s normal behavior andproblems begin when animals become reliant on humans through prolonged periods of direct and/or indirect feeding.The seed in birdfeeders can attract many small and medium sized mammals that can, in turn, attract species that prey on squirrels, chipmunks, mice, etc.

Keep all trash around your yard contained and picked up: Many wildlife species are most active at night. Do not put your trash out for pick up the next day unless it is in a sealed container that wildlife cannot penetrate.

Secure your pets: Although free roaming pets are more likely to be killed by automobiles than by wild animals, there are wildlife species like coyotes that view cats as potential prey and dogs as competition for mates and food. For the safety of pets, keep them restrained at all times. Also be sure to feed your animals indoors, and keep livestock feed tightly secured to avoid wildlife break-ins.

Close off small spaces around your home: Wildlife will use areas like crawlspaces, sheds, and under porches as dens for resting and raising their young.

Make it a community effort and share helpful information with your neighbors:  Your own good efforts could be a loss if you have neighbors who are purposely or unintentionally providing food or shelter for wildlife. Wildlife species who thrive in suburban environments are among the most adaptable of animals. Inevitably there are occasions when conflicts arise, such as missing or injured pets, or damaged property.

Make yourself aware of breeding seasons:  Being aware of a wild animals breeding season can help you understand why you may be seeing more of the animal in question. This can prevent your dog from getting sprayed by skunks, your cat from being scooped by coyotes, and the misdiagnosis of a raccoon wandering around in the daytime. All of these animals tend to forge outside of their usual active times in order to prepare for their incoming litters/feed their young who have possibly arrived early in the season.

Living in an area rich with wildlife doesn’t have to be a negative experience. With the proper tools and knowledge, it can be like having respectful neighbours. We can co-exist together.

If you are experiencing difficulty with wildlife on or near your property, be sure to contact a professional trapper to ensure the animal is humanely relocated to a better suited environment.