Skunking
the squirrels

Keep critters out of your home

THE onset of warmer weather and budding flow-
ers signals the birth of new animal life.

Many people are thrilled at the sight of little raccoons scam-
pering after their mother, voung birds resting, their wings for the
first Gme or baby squirrels playing a game af tag. There is na gues:
tion that armals entich our lives. Whether in the wild or an urban

_environment, animals are an important part of the ecosystem and
the world we share.

Unfortunately, some people cringe ar the sight of wildlife —
viewing them as pests that rummage through their garbage, climb
onto their roots and dig in their gardens. What they may nor real-
ize though, is that they are prov iding the opportunities ‘these ani-
mals are seeking. The behavior of wild animals is driven almost
exclusively bv a need for tood and shelter. To avoid problems alto-
gether, access to garbage pails, the garage. the root, the chininey
and the vegetable patch should be cut off if contlicts are tobe
avoided. Removing the intruding animal by trapping or killing it
will nor solve the problem: it will only leave a vacant territory for
another animal to move inte. Absa, relocated animals seldom sur-
vive when moved into a new location,

Bur what if squirrels, raccoons oF skunks are already camped
out in your attic or garage? Determine whether or nor the anizaals
are causing damage. what specics they are and where they are get-
ting in. From: March to June. animals are bearing their young and
it’s considered inhumane to remave them trom their home. But if
you can wait, ig won't be long betore the babies are old cnough to
venture outside and then you can take action,

Repairs should be done only when you are sure all the animals
have left the den site. For nocturnal animals this will be atter dusk,
tor those active during the day it will be in the inorning. Atter
closing up the holes, the area should be monizored to be sure:
there isn’t an animal crapped invide. It is important to locate all the
access holes, Stiff wire mesh attached with long staples or nails
works well, providing it is secure and has no gaps along the cdges.
Remember, if this has been their home for awhile the animals will
be persistent in their efforts 10 regain entry. Don’r forget the
chimney —- it should be covered with screening.

Passive deterrents can provide incentive for the animals ta
move out on ther own, Most prefer quiet, dark places to. raise
their voung, so battery-powered fight and radios can be effective.
Placing smeliy clothes or dey hair around the nest can also help...

NEWS photo Grad Ledwidge

NOW that spring has arrived, North Shore residents are sharing their space with local wildlife. Sometimes,
the birds and beasts are welcome, like this little visitor enjoying a snack in a bird feeder; btit too often, ani-
mals make their homes in our attics and garages, and it can be tough to get them out without harming them.

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