Secure your House

Prevent wild animals from making their home in your house

To prevent wild animals or birds making their home in your home, the following preventative measures are suggested in early spring before animals and birds begin to den and nest.

  • Cap chimneys, place wire mesh around the opening andĀ over any vent openings.
  • Clean out eaves troughs and patch any holes under roof.
  • Check the roof twice a year for loose or rotten shingles or tiles.
  • Board up any holes around the exterior of your home.
  • Keep garbage inside; use bungee cords across lids of garbageĀ cans kept outside.
  • Do not leave pet food outside.
  • Use electric fencing along fence lines, pools, etc.
  • Make sure dumpsters remain closed at night.
  • Do not invite bears by leaving fallen fruit lying around.

What to do when it’s too late, and they’ve already moved in

If you find a nest or den in your home, first check for babies. Leave babies and mothers alone until the young are old enough to leave with their mother. Adult animals without young can be encouraged to leave (check with your local Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for advice).

Preventive repairs can be made after the animals have left.

Relocating animals is NOT a humane solution for solving the problem. The animal finds itself in a strange area. Food supply may be insufficient or it may be the territory of another animal. Mother animals with young will be in a desperate situation, with no den for safety and in unfamiliar territory.

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