It looks like the end of December in southern Ontario has arrived with mild temperatures, causing some changes in raccoon behavior. Instead of hibernating like their cousin the black bear, raccoons have a long nap and seek shelter in the attics of homes when temperatures drop. But this year, the lack of snow cover and mild temperatures have caused raccoons to mate earlier than usual.

When male raccoons become amorous, they will pursue females relentlessly until they are willing to mate. This process can take a few weeks, and during this time, the females can become quite agitated by the male's advances. They may lash out with teeth and claws, and let out loud, unsettling screams of disapproval. These sounds can be so loud and disturbing that some people have reported being startled awake, thinking someone was being murdered.

Despite injuries sustained during the pursuit of love, male raccoons are driven to procreate and will mate with multiple females during the breeding season. And once baby raccoons are born, you might start hearing chittering noises coming from your attic. These sounds are made when the baby raccoons feel bothered or hungry, and are often described as multiple birds chirping at once. While these cries are typically heard at night when the mother raccoon goes out for food, they can also occur during the day.

Female raccoons give birth to 1 to 7 babies about 62 days after mating. So if you're hearing strange noises coming from your attic and you suspect that it might be baby raccoons, you can expect to see them being born sometime in mid to late March. Keep an eye out for these little ones, and try to provide food and water for the mother raccoon if you can, as she will be working hard to feed and care for her young.

When it comes to wild animals and their behavior during the winter, there are plenty of myths and misconceptions floating around. In this blog post, we're going to bust some of the most common ones and set the record straight about what wild animals really do during the colder months.

Myth #1: All animals hibernate during the winter.

This is a common misconception, but the truth is that not all animals hibernate during the winter. In fact, only a small percentage of animals have the ability to enter a state of torpor, in which their body temperature and metabolism drop significantly. This allows them to conserve energy and survive on minimal resources until the weather warms up again. Some examples of animals that do hibernate include bears, bats, and chipmunks. However, many other animals, such as birds, rodents, and insects, do not hibernate and must find other ways to survive the winter.

Myth #2: Birds migrate to escape the cold.

While it is true that many species of birds do migrate to warmer regions during the winter, this is not the only reason they do so. In fact, birds migrate for a variety of reasons, including to access more food and other resources, to breed, and to avoid competition. While the colder temperatures of winter can certainly be a factor, it is not the sole reason that birds migrate.

Myth #3: Wild animals are helpless and need our help to survive the winter.

While it is certainly true that humans can have an impact on wild animals and their habitats, it is important to remember that these creatures are adapted to survive in their natural environments. In many cases, they are more capable of surviving the winter than we give them credit for. While it is always a good idea to be mindful of the impact we have on the natural world, it is important to let wild animals do what they do best - survive and thrive in their natural habitats.

Myth #4: It is okay to feed wild animals during the winter.

While it may be tempting to help out wild animals by providing them with food during the winter, this is not always the best idea. In some cases, feeding wild animals can actually do more harm than good. For example, if animals become dependent on human-provided food, they may not be able to find enough food on their own when the weather warms up again. Additionally, feeding wild animals can also lead to other problems, such as attracting unwanted animals or causing conflicts with humans.

By debunking these common myths and misconceptions about wild animals and their behavior during the winter, we can gain a better understanding of these amazing creatures and the challenges they face. By educating ourselves and being mindful of our impact on the natural world, we can work to create a more harmonious relationship with wild animals and the environments they call home.

During the winter months, mice are known to engage in a variety of behaviors in order to survive the cold weather. Here are some things that mice do in the winter:

Mice seek out warm, sheltered areas: Mice are warm-blooded animals and need to maintain a constant body temperature in order to survive. During the winter, they will seek out warm, sheltered areas such as attics, basements, and walls to nest and hibernate.

Mice may enter homes in search of food and shelter: As the weather gets colder, mice may enter homes in search of food and shelter. They can squeeze through small openings and gaps in order to gain access to the interior of a home.

Mice may store food for the winter: Mice are known to be prolific scavengers and will collect and store food for the winter months. They may hoard seeds, nuts, and other small items in hidden caches throughout their territory.

Mice may become more active at night: During the winter, mice may become more active at night in order to avoid predators and conserve energy. They are most active in the hours just before dawn and just after dusk.

In conclusion, mice engage in a variety of behaviors during the winter months in order to survive the cold weather. These behaviors include seeking out warm, sheltered areas, entering homes, storing food, and becoming more active at night.

As the holiday season approaches, we at Gates Wildlife wanted to take a moment to wish a very Merry Christmas to all the wildlife lovers out there.

From the majestic deer who roam the forests to the tiny birds that flock to our backyard feeders, there are countless creatures that make our world a more beautiful and fascinating place. And as we gather with our loved ones to celebrate the season, we are grateful for the incredible diversity of wildlife that surrounds us.

As wildlife professionals, we are dedicated to protecting and conserving the natural world, and we are constantly inspired by the resilience and adaptability of the animals we work with. We have seen firsthand the amazing ways in which wildlife can overcome challenges and thrive, and we are committed to doing our part to help them.

So as you enjoy the festive season, take a moment to appreciate the wildlife that surrounds you. Whether you're taking a winter hike and spotting tracks in the snow, or watching the birds at your feeder, there is always something to marvel at and be grateful for.

From our team at Gates Wildlife, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

Raccoons are known to live in chimneys, and this behaviour can cause problems for homeowners and raccoons alike. One of the reasons that raccoons like to live in chimneys is because chimneys resemble hollow trees, which are the raccoon's natural habitat. Raccoons are den animals and prefer to live in dark, enclosed spaces, such as tree hollows or burrows. Chimneys provide raccoons with a similar environment, as they are dark, enclosed spaces that offer protection and shelter.

Raccoons are opportunistic animals and are known to take advantage of human-made structures, such as chimneys, to create dens and raise their young. While a raccoon living in a chimney may provide the animal with a warm, safe place to live, it can also cause problems for the homeowner. Raccoons can damage the chimney and cause blockages, which can lead to safety hazards and costly repairs.

In addition to causing problems for homeowners, living in chimneys can also be dangerous for raccoons. Chimneys are not natural environments for raccoons, and they may not have the necessary skills or adaptations to survive in these environments. For example, raccoons may become trapped in chimneys and be unable to escape, or they may be exposed to smoke or other harmful substances.

Overall, while raccoons may be attracted to living in chimneys, this behavior can cause problems for both raccoons and homeowners. It is important for homeowners to take steps to prevent raccoons from entering their chimneys and to address any problems that may arise.

As a homeowner, it's important to be aware of the potential for wildlife problems on your property. From pesky pests like squirrels and raccoons to more serious issues like bird or bat infestations, wildlife can cause a range of issues for homeowners. Here are five common wildlife problems and what you can do to solve them:

Squirrels in the attic: Squirrels are one of the most common wildlife pests that homeowners face. They are drawn to attics because they provide a warm, dry place to nest and raise their young. If you hear running noises in your attic during the day, it's likely that you have squirrels living there. The best solution is to contact a professional wildlife control company like Gates Wildlife to remove the squirrels and prevent them from returning.

Raccoons in the trash: Raccoons are another common wildlife pest, and they are often attracted to outdoor trash cans and compost bins. To prevent raccoons from raiding your trash, make sure to keep your cans securely covered and store them in a well-sealed shed or garage. You can also use deterrents such as motion-activated lights to discourage raccoons from approaching your trash. If you hear loud walking noises in your attic at night, it's likely that you have squirrels living there. The best solution is to contact a professional wildlife control company like Gates Wildlife to remove the squirrels and prevent them from returning.

Birds nesting on your property: Some birds, such as pigeons and sparrows, will build nests in or around homes and other buildings. This can create a range of problems, from noise and droppings to the potential for disease. If you have birds nesting on your property, you can use deterrents like fake predators or bird netting to discourage them from building nests. However, be sure to check local laws and regulations before using any deterrents, as some species are protected and may not be relocated or removed. If you hear noises and chirping noises in your bathroom or stove vents, it's likely that you have birds living there. The best solution is to contact a professional wildlife control company like Gates Wildlife to remove the birds humanely and prevent them from returning.

Bats in the attic: Bats are beneficial animals that help control insect populations, but they can also cause problems for homeowners. Bats often roost in attics, and their droppings can create health hazards and attract other pests. If you have bats in your attic, it's important to contact a professional wildlife control company like Gates Wildlife to safely remove them and prevent them from returning.

Skunks under the porch: Skunks are nocturnal animals that are often attracted to the shelter and warmth of sheds, decks, and porches. If you have a skunk living under your porch, you may be able to deter it by making the area less appealing. This can include removing any food sources, sealing off any potential entrances, and using deterrents like motion-activated lights. It is likely the skunk won't leave on its own, your best option is to contact a professional wildlife control company like Gates Wildlife to safely remove a skunk.

If you're dealing with any of these common wildlife problems, contact the experts at Gates Wildlife for professional and humane solutions. Our team has the experience and expertise to handle any wildlife situation, and we will work with you to find the best solution for your specific problem.

Relocation can be inhumane and cause unnecessary suffering for the animals. Here are some reasons why relocation of wildlife is considered inhumane:

Relocating animals can disrupt their natural habitat and social bonds. Many animals, such as birds, fish, or mammals, have complex social structures and rely on their natural habitat for food, shelter, and other resources. Moving them to a new location can cause them to lose access to these resources and to become isolated from their social groups. This can cause stress, hunger, and other negative effects for the animals.

Relocating animals can expose them to new predators or diseases. In some cases, the animals may not have the necessary adaptations or immunity to survive in their new environment. They may be more vulnerable to predators or diseases that are common in the new location, which can cause them to suffer or even die.

Relocating animals can be stressful and traumatic for them. The process of capturing, transporting, and releasing animals can be very stressful and distressing for them. They may be injured, scared, or confused during the relocation process, which can cause them to suffer.

Relocating animals can be ineffective or even counterproductive. In some cases, the animals may not be able to adapt to their new environment and may end up returning to their original location. This can cause them to suffer unnecessarily and can also create new conflicts with humans in their original location. Additionally, moving animals to a new location may not solve the underlying problem that led to their relocation in the first place. For example, if the animals were relocated because they were causing damage to property, they may simply cause similar damage in their new location.

In conclusion, relocation of wildlife can be inhumane and cause unnecessary suffering for the animals. The process of relocation can disrupt their natural habitat and social bonds, expose them to new predators or diseases, be stressful and traumatic for them, and may be ineffective or even counterproductive. It is important to consider these potential negative impacts when deciding whether or not to relocate wildlife and to try to find more humane and effective solutions whenever possible.

If you are experiencing a wildlife intrusion and are considering relocation as a solution, you should look into alternative options that are more humane and effective. One option is to contact a professional wildlife control company, such as Gates Wildlife Control, to help solve the problem.

Gates Wildlife Control is a reputable and experienced company that specializes in humanely resolving wildlife intrusions. They have a team of trained professionals who use a variety of techniques to safely and effectively remove animals from your property without causing them harm. In addition to removing the animals, Gates Wildlife Control can also help to prevent future wildlife intrusions by sealing off entry points and providing other deterrent measures.

By choosing to work with a professional wildlife control company like Gates Wildlife Control, you can rest assured that your wildlife intrusion will be resolved in a humane and effective manner. Rather than causing the animals unnecessary suffering through relocation, you can choose a solution that is more respectful of their well-being. This can not only benefit the animals involved, but it can also help to foster a more harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife.

As the colder weather sets in, many people assume that wildlife activity will slow down and that it's not necessary to address any problems until the spring. But this can be a dangerous assumption, and ignoring wildlife problems during the winter can lead to a range of risks and hazards.

First and foremost, failing to address wildlife problems can result in damage to your home and property. Many species of animals, such as rodents and birds, will seek shelter indoors during the winter, and they can cause significant damage to buildings and structures. They can chew through walls and electrical wires, and can even cause fires if they come into contact with heating and cooking equipment.

Additionally, ignoring wildlife problems can also pose risks to human health and safety. Many species of animals, such as rodents and birds, can carry diseases and parasites that can be transmitted to humans. These diseases can range from mild illnesses, such as the flu, to more serious conditions such as salmonella and Lyme disease. By failing to address the problem, you are putting yourself and your loved ones at risk of contracting these diseases.

Furthermore, ignoring wildlife problems can also cause the issue to escalate and become more difficult to control. Many species of animals, such as rodents and birds, reproduce quickly and can produce large numbers of offspring. If a small problem is allowed to go unchecked, it can quickly grow into a larger and more serious issue that is more difficult and expensive to address.

So if you have a wildlife problem, don't wait until the spring to address it. Take action now, and protect your home, your health, and your peace of mind. By working with a professional wildlife control company, you can ensure that the problem is resolved safely and humanely, and that your home and property are protected from future invasions.

As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, many homeowners are faced with the challenge of preventing and addressing wildlife problems. Whether it's a squirrel in the attic or a mouse in the walls, wildlife can cause damage and create hazards, and it's important to take action to protect your home and property.

Here are a few tips for keeping wildlife out of your home this winter:

Identify the problem

The first step in addressing any wildlife problem is to accurately identify the species involved. This will help you to understand the behavior and habits of the animal, and will allow you to develop a targeted and effective control plan.

Seal entry points

Many animals will try to enter homes and buildings through gaps and openings in the walls, roof, and foundation. By hiring Gates Willdife to seal these entry points with our gauvinized screen, you can prevent animals from gaining access to your home.

Remove attractants

Some animals are attracted to homes and buildings because of the availability of food and shelter. By removing potential attractants, such as bird feeders and trash cans, you can make your property less attractive to wildlife.

Work with professionals

If you are unable to resolve the problem on your own, or if you are unsure how to proceed, it's important to work with a professional wildlife control company. They have the experience, knowledge, and equipment to safely and humanely resolve the problem, and can help to prevent future invasions.

By following these tips, you can protect your home and property from the dangers of wildlife this winter. And who knows, maybe you'll even get to enjoy some winter wildlife sightings along the way!

As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, many people assume that wildlife activity will slow down and that it's not necessary to address any problems until the warmer months. But in reality, winter can actually be the perfect time for addressing wildlife issues.

For one, many species of animals are less active during the winter, which can make it easier to spot signs of their presence and to take action. For example, wildlife such as squirrels and raccoons will often seek shelter indoors during the colder months, and their tracks and droppings can be more easily spotted in the snow. This can provide valuable information on their location and movements, which can be used to target control efforts.

Additionally, winter can also be a good time to address wildlife problems before the spring breeding season. Many species of animals, including birds, raccoons, squirrels, and skunks, will start to breed in the spring, and a single female can produce a large number of offspring. By addressing the problem before the breeding season begins, it's possible to prevent the population from growing and becoming even more difficult to control.

Furthermore, winter is also a good time to take preventative measures to prevent wildlife from entering your home or property. Cold weather can cause animals to seek shelter and warmth, and they will often try to find their way into buildings through gaps and openings in the walls and roof. By sealing these entry points and making your home or property less attractive to wildlife, you can reduce the chances of encountering a problem in the future.

So don't wait until the spring to address your wildlife problems - take action now, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your home and property are safe and secure. And who knows, maybe you'll even get to enjoy some winter wildlife sightings along the way!

Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable animals that are able to thrive in a variety of environments. Many people assume that raccoons hibernate during the winter, but this is actually not the case. Here is what raccoons do in the winter:

• Raccoons do not truly hibernate. Hibernation is a state of deep sleep in which an animal's body temperature, heart rate, and breathing rate decrease in order to conserve energy. Raccoons do not enter this state, and they do not significantly lower their body temperature.
• Instead of hibernating, raccoons will den up in a warm and sheltered place during the coldest parts of the winter. Raccoons often choose to live in attics because they provide warmth, shelter, and a safe place to raise their young in the upcoming Spring. Attics are also typically quiet and secluded, which can be attractive to raccoons.
• Raccoons will eat a variety of foods in the winter, including fruits, nuts, insects, and small mammals. They are opportunistic feeders, so they will eat whatever food is available to them. They may also cache, or store, food for later use.
• Raccoons may become less active in the winter, as they try to conserve energy. They may sleep for longer periods of time, or move around less. However, they are not true hibernators, so they will still need to find food and shelter during the winter months.

In summary, raccoons do not hibernate during the winter. They use a variety of strategies, such as denning and caching food, to survive the cold weather. It is important for homeowners to take steps to prevent raccoons from living inside their attic, even at this time of year. Removing the raccoons now, will prevent long term damage caused by a full winter of the wild animal living inside your home.

As human populations continue to grow and urban areas expand, it's becoming increasingly important for us to learn how to coexist with urban wildlife. From birds and squirrels to raccoons and deer, urban areas are home to a diverse range of wildlife species, and it's important for us to understand their needs and behaviors in order to coexist peacefully.

Here are some tips from the experts at Gates Wildlife on how to coexist with urban wildlife:

Don't feed the animals

It may seem like a kind gesture to feed wildlife, but it can actually do more harm than good. Feeding animals can cause them to become dependent on human food and lose their natural foraging instincts. It can also lead to conflicts with other animals and humans, and can spread disease. If you want to help wildlife, the best thing you can do is to provide natural food sources like bird feeders and native plants.

Keep your distance

It's natural to want to get close to wildlife, but it's important to remember that these animals are wild, and they can be unpredictable. To avoid conflicts and keep both yourself and the animals safe, it's best to keep a respectful distance. This means not approaching or touching wildlife, and giving them plenty of space to move freely.

Protect your property

Urban wildlife can sometimes cause problems for homeowners, such as damage to gardens and buildings. To prevent these issues, it's important to protect your property. This can include keeping trash cans securely covered, sealing off potential entry points to your home, and installing preventative screens on common entry points on your home. This can include, but is not limited to, roof vents, plumbing mats, bathroom vents and chimneys.

Respect their habitats

Urban areas can be challenging for wildlife, as natural habitats are often limited. To help wildlife thrive in urban environments, it's important to respect their habitats and minimize our impact on them. This can include protecting green spaces, conserving water, and reducing our use of pesticides and other chemicals.

Be patient

Wildlife is not always predictable, and sometimes it can take time for animals to adapt to our presence. If you're trying to coexist with urban wildlife, it's important to be patient and give the animals the time and space they need. With patience and understanding, we can learn to live peacefully with urban wildlife and coexist in harmony.

At Gates Wildlife, we are experts in understanding and coexisting with urban wildlife. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you coexist with wildlife in your urban environment.

At Gates Wildlife, we are a professional wildlife control company that specializes in providing professional, humane, and effective wildlife removal services for homeowners and businesses. We understand that wildlife can sometimes cause problems for homeowners, and we are here to help. With over 38 years of experience, our team of trained and licensed technicians are equipped to handle all kinds of wildlife control including attic wildlife control, rodent control, and squirrel, raccoon, and bird removal.

We use safe and humane methods to remove animals from your property and prevent them from returning. And, with our emergency services, you can count on us to be there when you need us most.

But we're more than just a wildlife control company. We're committed to preserving the health and wellbeing of both humans and animals. That's why we only use humane methods to remove animals from your property, and why we take care to make sure the animals wellbeing is our top priority.

Whether you have a problem with attic wildlife, rodents in your walls, or birds roosting on your property, our team is here to help. 

Attic Wildlife Control

When animals such as squirrels, raccoons, or birds enter your attic, they can cause damage to your property and create health and safety hazards. Our team can quickly and safely remove these animals from your attic and repair any damage they have caused. We use humane methods to capture and relocate the animals, and we can also provide long-term solutions to prevent future wildlife intrusions.

Rodent Control

Rodents such as rats and mice can carry diseases and cause damage to your home. Our team can help you identify and eliminate rodent infestations, and can provide advice on how to prevent future infestations. We use humane methods to capture and relocate the animals, and we can also provide long-term solutions to prevent future rodent problems.

Squirrel Removal, Raccoon Removal, and Bird Removal

Squirrels, raccoons, and birds can all cause problems for homeowners. Our team can help you safely and humanely remove these animals from inside your home or attic. We use specialized techniques such as humane one-way-doors and equipment to remove the animals, and we can also provide long-term solutions to prevent future wildlife intrusions.

At Gates Wildlife, we are committed to providing professional and humane wildlife removal services. We have the experience and expertise to handle any wildlife situation, and we will work with you to find the best solution for your specific needs. If you're dealing with a wildlife problem, don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to help you with all of your wildlife removal needs.

Contact us today to learn more about our services, schedule your free consultation and how we can help you coexist with wildlife.

Humane wildlife control is a method of addressing wildlife conflicts that prioritizes the well-being of the animal. Being humane to animals means treating them with compassion, respect, and dignity.

Humane wildlife control is the practice of safely and humanely removing animals from residential or commercial areas. This is typically done when animals have found their way into buildings or are causing damage to property.

One way doors, also known as exclusion devices, are a popular method of humane wildlife control. These doors allow animals to exit the building or area, but prevent them from re-entering. The use of one way doors allows animals to be removed without causing them harm or stress. It also allows them to return to their natural habitat, where they can continue to thrive and live their lives.

One way doors are typically installed on areas where animals are known to enter, such as chimneys, roof vents, or holes in roofs. Once the animal exits through the one way door, it is unable to re-enter the building. Gates Willdife Control can provide you with prevention services to ensure the animals can not get back in.

In addition to being humane, one way doors are also an effective method of wildlife control. They allow animals to be removed from the area without the need for traps or other harmful methods.

Humane wildlife control also involves education and prevention. This can include providing homeowners with tips on how to prevent animals from entering their property, such as sealing off entry points and removing attractants. It also involves educating the public on the importance of coexisting with wildlife, and the consequences of lethal control methods.

In summary, being humane to animals means treating them with compassion and respect, and using methods of control that do not cause them unnecessary suffering or distress. This is an important principle that Gates Wildlife Control adheres to in its approach to wildlife management.

Wildlife removal can be a complex and confusing topic, and it is common for people to have questions about the process and how to handle wildlife problems. Here are some frequently asked questions about wildlife removal, along with answers to help you understand the issue better:

What are the most common types of wildlife that need to be removed from homes?

The most common types of wildlife that need to be removed from homes are raccoons, squirrels, and rats or mice. These animals are attracted to attics, crawl spaces, and other areas of homes because they provide warmth, shelter, and a safe place to raise their young.

What are common signs of a wildlife problem?

Common signs of a wildlife problem include noises in the attic or walls, damage to the exterior of your home, the presence of animal droppings, unusual smells, and signs of nesting or burrowing.

How can I determine what type of animal is causing the problem?

Gates Wildlife can help to identify the animal based on the signs of the problem, such as the type of damage, droppings, or nest materials.

Can I remove the animal myself?

It is not recommended to try to remove a wild animal yourself, as it can be dangerous and ineffective. Instead, it is best to contact a professional wildlife removal company like ourselves to handle the issue safely and effectively.

How can I prevent future wildlife problems?

To prevent future wildlife problems, it is important to seal up entry points, installed screens on vulnerable areas, remove food sources, keep your property clean and tidy, use wildlife-proof trash cans.

Is wildlife removal expensive?

The cost of wildlife removal can vary depending on the type of animal, the extent of the problem, and the methods used to remove the animal. You can contact us at (416) 750-9453 to schedule an estimate for the specific situation on your property.

In summary, wildlife removal can be a complex and sensitive issue, and it is important to understand the signs, risks, and solutions. If you have a wildlife problem on your property, it is best to contact a professional wildlife removal company for help.