As spring brings new life, it is important that residents be aware of our furry and feathered neighbors.
Wild ARC and BC SPCA gave tips on how to protect wildlife while we freshen up our patios and gardens for spring.
"Now that baby season has started, birds and mammals could nest and sneak around your house as we speak," the BC SPCA website said. Wild ARC recommends keeping a close eye on them when felling trees or cutting down shrubs as they can house nests for birds and small mammals such as minks and shrews.
"Be careful not to disturb the birds' nests that are hidden in the branches. Sometimes it takes a good eye to see these nests. For example, hummingbird nests can be as small as a toonie, "adds the BC SPCA website.
Another tip suggested that homeowners should walk around the property before mowing or weeding their lawn, as cottontail rabbits build their nests in shallow furrows in the ground with a mixture of hair and grass.
"Mothers do not stay in or near the nest, they leave the rabbits hidden and return briefly at dusk and at dawn to look after them," said a Wild ARC post on Facebook. "We get a lot of calls when nests are disturbed while someone is mowing the lawn. These extra steps can help avoid disturbing the rabbit nest and instead allow rabbits to be kept in the wild with their mothers. ""
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Before attempting any roof repair, be aware that raccoons, squirrels, and birds often perch in weak fascia, gutters, boards, or loose holes, or in dryer openings outdoors. Wild ARC suggests that repairs be initiated in the spring before areas are reserved for nesting sites or maintenance work is carried out in late fall.
"The smokehouse in an unused fireplace is a typical raccoon den. When the registry is closed, this area will be the most common area to catch birds or squirrels, "Wild told ARC. "Consider installing a sturdy, wildlife-resistant chimney cap to prevent wildlife from getting into the chimney and becoming entangled. Prevention is the best way to stop human-animal conflicts. ""
Raccoons also tend to roll up grass to gain access to underlying larvae, and Wild ARC encourages people to use non-toxic worm removal products.
"Not only does this help your weeds, but it also prevents worm killers from poisoning raccoons," Wild told ARC.
Wild ARC got off to a successful start to the year with the organization raising more than $ 25,000 through its recent spring draw. You can find more helpful information about keeping your garden animal- friendly at www.spca.bc.ca.
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