Control and prevention measures
What should you do if you come across a wild animal?
Most of the species on our territory pose no danger to humans. However, certain safety measures can be taken:
- Never approach a wild animal;
- Never feed a wild animal;
- Never touch a wild animal.
If you come across a wild animal that looks sick or injured, please contact SPCA Roussillon at 450-638-9698 or via their website.
To report the presence of vermin in a municipal or public building, please consult this page.
How do you keep wild animals away?
If wild animals don’t cause any damage to your property, it’s best to be tolerant. On the other hand, if their presence becomes a problem, certain measures can be taken to dissuade them from settling in.
Here are some practical tips to keep wild animals away from your home:
Waste management
Make sure your household waste is not accessible to animals. To do this, use airtight garbage cans with tightly-fitting lids. To reduce the odors that may attract them, clean your bins regularly and add mothballs to the bottom.
Protection of external structures
Shelters such as sheds, garages and stoops are often prized by certain species. It is essential to seal off accesses by blocking openings with wire mesh. Choose 5 cm mesh to keep out raccoons, groundhogs and skunks, and 1 cm for squirrels.
Animal feed
Avoid leaving pet food outside, as it may attract urban wildlife. Place bird feeders at least 1.5 meters from the ground and three meters from any surface from which a squirrel could jump.
Grub control
Reduce the presence of grubs on your property, as they are a source of food for groundhogs, skunks and raccoons.
Securing attics and chimneys
Attics and chimneys can be havens for certain animals, which can gnaw through electrical wires. To prevent intruders, close all openings with strong wire mesh.
If you notice an infestation in your home, read this article to find out what steps to take in such a situation.
Useful information
According to wildlife specialists, relocating or capturing wild animals is not recommended. This entails risks, such as the introduction of diseases or parasites into a new environment, which can have negative repercussions on public health, agriculture and species preservation.
If, despite your best efforts, you are unable to dissuade wild animals from settling on your property, we recommend that you contact the Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs for advice tailored to your situation.