The Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C. is urging Burnaby residents to critter-proof their homes before spring, when some wildlife tend to build nests and dens inside people’s homes.
Every spring, the Burnaby-based association fields calls about animals nesting on top of high rises or in shed and attics.
“We advise property owners and building managers to check their properties, sheds, garages, eaves and balconies for holes and other potential entry points to deter unwelcome guests,” said the association’s Janelle VanderBeek in a press release. “Once the babies are born, moving the family is a more complicated process that can put the animals’ lives at risk. It is illegal to interfere with most nests, and licensed wildlife control experts need to be called in.”
Some animals can be destructive once they make their nest or den in your home, and preventative measures now can save money down the road.
“We advise that you spend a few minutes to check your property and make the required repairs before the beginning of March when most animals will be raising their young,” VanderBeek added.
Tips for wildlife proofing:
- Ducks and geese – either alone or in mating pairs – may be looking for a quiet place to nest this time of year, and if that happens to be atop a high rise building, it could cause problems when the babies hatch as it’s a long way down to get to the water. Now is the time to shoo them away to encourage them to find somewhere more appropriate to lay eggs and raise a family.
- Block holes and openings in buildings, roofs and sheds with chicken wire as a temporary measure, but only after you’re sure there are no animals inside already.
- Keep courtyards and gardens well-groomed, and trim hedges and grass to discourage geese and ducks from nesting.
- If you have a nest or den on your hands, contact a humane wildlife removal company, like AAA Wildlife at 604-685-6888. You can also call the Wildlife Rescue Association at 604-526-7275.
