Identifying Animal Activity & Entry Points in Ottawa

Introduction
Wildlife intrusions are a common challenge for homeowners in Ottawa. Animals like raccoons, squirrels, bats, and rodents often find their way into homes through unnoticed gaps or weak spots. At Expert2Wildlife, we specialize in identifying animal activity and potential entry points to ensure your property stays secure. This blog will guide you through the signs of animal presence and how to detect potential access points before problems arise.

Signs of Animal Activity in Your Home

Recognizing the signs of wildlife activity is the first step in protecting your property:

1. Unusual Noises
   • Scratching, scurrying, or thumping sounds in walls, attics, or crawl spaces, especially at night.
2. Droppings or Urine
   • Feces or urine stains near entry points, attics, or basements.
3. Damage to Property
   • Chewed wires, torn insulation, or gnawed wood.
   • Damage to vents, shingles, or siding.
4. Nesting Materials
   • Leaves, twigs, or shredded materials like paper or insulation used for nesting.
5. Tracks or Smudges
   • Dirt, grease marks, or footprints along walls, floors, or ceilings.

Common Wildlife Entry Points in Ottawa Homes

Animals are resourceful and often exploit weak spots in buildings:

1. Roof and Soffits
   • Damaged shingles or loose soffit panels provide easy access.
2. Attic Vents and Chimneys
   • Open vents and uncapped chimneys are prime entry points for birds, bats, and raccoons.
3. Gaps and Cracks
   • Small openings in walls, windows, or foundations allow rodents to squeeze through.
4. Doors and Windows
   • Poorly sealed doors or broken window screens invite animals indoors.
5. Crawl Spaces and Basements
   • Openings around pipes or vents can lead to infestations.

For more guidance on preventing wildlife conflicts, check out the Ontario government’s strategy on managing human-wildlife conflicts.

How to Identify Potential Entry Points

1. Inspect Your Property Regularly
   • Conduct thorough checks of your roof, walls, and foundation for visible gaps or damage.
2. Look for Trails or Tracks
   • Identify dirt trails, fur, or grease marks near suspected entry points.
3. Monitor Attic and Basement Spaces
   • Check for droppings, nests, or signs of chewing in less-frequented areas.
4. Check Exterior Features
   • Ensure vents, chimneys, and utility openings are covered with sturdy mesh or caps.

How Expert2Wildlife Identifies and Secures Entry Points

1. Comprehensive Inspections
   • Our team uses advanced tools to locate active entry points and hidden weak spots.
2. Wildlife Activity Assessment
   • Identifying the type of animal based on tracks, droppings, and damage patterns.
3. Sealing and Repairing Entry Points
   • Using durable materials like metal mesh, sealants, and hardware cloth to secure your property.
4. Preventive Measures
   • Offering customized solutions, such as installing barriers, screens, and one-way doors to keep wildlife out.

Why Choose Expert2Wildlife in Ottawa?

At Expert2Wildlife, we go beyond identifying animal activity—we provide lasting solutions:

• Expert Knowledge: Decades of experience dealing with Ottawa’s wildlife.
• Humane Practices: Ethical and safe wildlife management.
• Tailored Services: Customized solutions for your property’s unique needs.
• Proactive Prevention: Helping you avoid future wildlife issues.

Conclusion

Identifying animal activity and potential entry points is crucial to protecting your Ottawa home from wildlife intrusions. At Expert2Wildlife, we provide professional inspection and prevention services to keep your property secure and wildlife-friendly.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection and safeguard your home from unwelcome visitors!