Relocating nuisance wildlife like squirrels and raccoons is inhumane: BCSPCA | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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Relocating nuisance wildlife like squirrels and raccoons is inhumane: BCSPCA

Baby raccoons rely on their mothers for the first few months of life.
Image Credit: AnimalKind/Sam Gorick

You may have the best intentions but trapping and relocating wildlife that’s become a nuisance on your property is not humane or particularly effective.

“Relocating an animal far from their home territory puts them at risk of injury or death,” according to an article published on Animal Kind in partnership with the BCSPCA.

“Surviving in an unfamiliar environment is dangerous. Relocated animals may struggle to find sources of food or places to den. They might succumb to injuries caused by fighting other animals who already live in that territory.”

For urban wildlife, the situation is no different.

“Raccoons, skunks and squirrels have adapted to urban environments,” Animal Kind experts said.

“When they are trapped and relocated to unknown areas, they might lack the skills to survive in their new environment. Moms might get lost or die trying to find a way back to their babies.”

The best way to protect your home from damage to structures, wiring, or even a garden caused by wildlife includes long-term humane solutions like locating the point of entry, humanely excluding the animals, and maintaining your property to prevent animals from re-entering or other animals to move in.

To read the full article that highlights best practices, go here.


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