Wildlife Removal

Managing Wildlife on Your Property

During the winter and early spring, wildlife may enter your home or other structures on your property to hibernate and nest. In the summer months, wildlife will seek to find a safe location for their offspring.

Residents should contact Vaughan Animal Services if they encounter wildlife that is causing a nuisance on private property. Our staff will assess the situation and provide recommendations to residents about next steps.

Choosing a Wildlife Removal Company 

If it is determined that a wildlife removal company is required, here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose a wildlife containment and removal company:
 

Do your research 

It is important to hire a wildlife removal company that uses humane, ethical, and effective practices.
Ensure you carefully research different companies before making a decision.  A quick online search for reviews, and reading a company’s website, can assist you in making an informed choice.

Arrange for an inspection

Arrange for the company to visit your property to assess the situation, and ask that they identify the type of animal, how the animal is entering any structures, and why the animals may be drawn to your property.

Ask for a written estimate and contract

Never sign a contract that contains an open-ended clause allowing a company to add additional fees during or at the end of the job. Ensure the estimate is only for the removal of the animals you have identified as problematic on your property.

Ask for an action plan

Before signing a contract or paying any fees, ask for a detailed action plan.
Get specific details about the methods that will be used. If the wildlife is inside a building or structure, ensure effective strategies are used, such as one-way doors or manual removal, that will allow for family reunification and prevent re-entry.

Prevent a recurrence of the problem

If the wildlife removal company is completing remediation measures, the cost of repairs should be detailed in the initial quote for the job. If not, ask the company to make recommendations on how to close the access points, including materials that should be used, and ensure the repairs are completed as soon as possible to prevent re-entry. 

Make sure the company is insured, qualified and complies with relevant regulations

Request to see proof of insurance, qualifications, or membership certificates. Do not hesitate to ask for references.

Wildlife removal companies are required to be in compliance with the City of Vaughan Animal Control by-law and any relevant provincial and federal legislation.
 

The City of Vaughan does not provide wildlife removal services on private property.
If you see a sick or injured wild animal, call Vaughan Animal Services at 905-832-2281. If calling after hours, please press “0” to reach the after-hours dispatch team. Officers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to respond to calls about sick or injured wildlife.

Visit the City’s Urban Wildlife website for more information Urban Wildlife | City of Vaughan