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Securing Your Home Against Wildlife Intrusions: A Seasonal Guide for Edmonton

July 26, 2024 by

Edmonton’s rich biodiversity is a point of pride, but when wild animals venture into urban spaces, it can lead to conflicts with homeowners. This comprehensive guide will help Edmonton residents protect their properties from wildlife intrusions throughout the year, while respecting our local ecosystem.

Understanding Edmonton’s Urban Wildlife

Before we dive into prevention strategies, let’s familiarize ourselves with common wildlife in Edmonton:

  • Coyotes
  • Skunks
  • Raccoons
  • Rabbits
  • Squirrels (including the native red squirrel)
  • Magpies and other bird species
  • Deer (in some areas)
  • Bats

Each season brings unique wildlife challenges, so let’s explore how to secure your Edmonton home year-round.

Spring: Preparing for New Life

As Edmonton emerges from winter, animals become more active and seek nesting sites. Here’s how to prepare:

Inspect and Repair

  • Check your roof and eaves for winter damage
  • Seal any holes or cracks in your home’s exterior
  • Pay special attention to areas where ice dams may have formed

Landscaping for Wildlife Prevention

  • Trim tree branches away from your roof and walls
  • Remove brush piles that could serve as animal habitats
  • Plan your garden with wildlife-resistant plants native to Edmonton

Pro Tip: Install motion-activated lights to deter nocturnal wildlife.

Summer: Active Wildlife Management

Edmonton’s summers mean increased wildlife activity. Stay proactive with these steps:

Secure Food Sources

  • Use animal-proof garbage and compost bins
  • Clean up fallen fruit from trees promptly
  • Keep pet food indoors, especially at night

Maintain Your Yard

  • Regular lawn mowing deters small mammals
  • Remove standing water to prevent mosquito breeding
  • Consider installing fencing to deter larger animals like deer

Wildlife-Proof Your Home

  • Install chimney caps to prevent animals from nesting
  • Seal gaps under decks, sheds, or porches
  • Use fine mesh to cover vents and other openings

Fall: Preparing for Winter Denning

As Edmonton’s temperatures drop, animals seek warm spaces. Protect your home with these measures:

Home Exterior Check

  • Inspect eaves, soffits, and fascia for gaps
  • Secure attic vents with heavy-duty screens
  • Check your foundation for cracks or holes

Remove Attractions

  • Clean out gutters to prevent ice dams and potential nesting sites
  • Store patio furniture and remove bird feeders
  • Harvest vegetables and fruits promptly from your garden

Edmonton Wildlife Tip: Be extra vigilant about securing garbage bins in fall, as animals are actively foraging to prepare for winter.

Winter: Ongoing Vigilance

Edmonton’s harsh winters can drive wildlife to seek shelter in urban areas. Stay proactive with these winter-specific tips:

Monitor Your Property

  • Regularly check for signs of animal activity, especially after snowfall
  • Look for tracks leading to your home or unusual snow disturbances
  • Listen for unusual sounds in walls, attics, or under decks

Prevent Easy Access

  • Keep snow cleared from doors, windows, and ground-level vents
  • Ensure your chimney flue is closed when not in use
  • Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home to avoid attracting rodents

Safe Snow and Ice Management

  • Use pet-safe and wildlife-friendly de-icing products on walkways and driveways
  • Be cautious when removing ice dams to avoid creating new entry points for wildlife

Year-Round Wildlife Protection Strategies for Edmonton

Some practices are essential regardless of the season:

  1. Proper Waste Management: Use secure, animal-resistant garbage and compost bins, especially important in Edmonton’s diverse neighborhoods.
  2. Regular Home Maintenance: Schedule annual inspections to catch potential entry points early, considering Edmonton’s extreme temperature fluctuations.
  3. Educate Family Members: Ensure everyone in your household knows how to safely coexist with urban wildlife and what to do in case of an encounter.
  4. Humane Deterrents: Use non-toxic, humane repellents when necessary, suitable for Edmonton’s climate.
  5. Professional Help: Know when to call Edmonton wildlife control experts for safe and legal animal removal.

Edmonton’s Wildlife Bylaws and Regulations

Stay informed about local regulations:

  • It’s illegal to relocate wildlife in Edmonton without proper permits.
  • Certain control methods may be restricted within city limits.
  • Report aggressive wildlife to Edmonton’s Animal Care & Control Centre.
  • Familiarize yourself with Edmonton’s Urban Wildlife Management Plan.

Enjoy A Harmonious Coexistence with Edmonton’s Urban Wildlife

By following this seasonal guide, you can significantly reduce the risk of wildlife intrusions while respecting Edmonton’s natural inhabitants. Remember, our goal is to create a balance between urban living and wildlife conservation.

With proper precautions, you can enjoy Edmonton’s diverse wildlife from a safe distance, contributing to our city’s unique urban ecosystem. For persistent wildlife issues, always consult with professional Edmonton pest control services who understand our local ecosystems and regulations.