On occasion, the North Bay & District Humane Society becomes involved with injured or orphaned wildlife; providing care, shelter and veterinary attention until they can be transferred to a licensed rehabilitation center.  Individuals who find what they believe to be orphaned and injured wildlife are encouraged to call the Humane Society as soon as soon as possible. They should refrain from touching, moving, or feeding any wildlife.

More often than not, situations where wildlife comes into conflict with humans can be avoided through prevention.  The following tips on how to 'Wildlife Proof Your Property' may be of some assistance:

• Prevent access to garbage and recycling bins by storing them in a secure location such as a shed or garage until the morning of pick-up.
• Keep barbecue grills clean, replace the drip can frequently and keep the lid closed between uses.
• Regularly inspect roofs, attics, soffits and eaves and repair anything required immediately.
• Cap chimneys and vents using strong wire or strong plastic mesh.
• Apply environmentally friendly non-toxic pesticides to lawns to control grubs, which are eaten by skunks and raccoons.
• Install L-shaped wire screen in a one-foot by one-foot trench around decks and sheds to prevent animals from digging and residing under buildings.
• Feeding wildlife is not encouraged, as it is not possible to attract one type of animal without attracting others, some of which are 'undesired'.  It can cause problems for the person feeding the animals, but can also upset neighbours who may then take harsh actions against species they do not want near their property.
• Use tree-guards to prevent animals from eating and destroying young trees.
• Spray a solution of one tablespoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce with one gallon of water to plants and vegetables to prevent animals from eating them.
• Motion-activated devices such as lawn sprinklers can be used to scare wildlife out of yards using sound, light or water.
• Cover window wells or insert a rough surfaced ramp to allow animals that have fallen into a well to climb out.

For more specific information on how to deal with wildlife issues, don't hesitate to visit the Ontario Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website at www.ontariospca.ca.