Red Squirrels: Ontario's Feisty Forest Acrobats and Their Impact on Your Property

Red squirrels are a common sight in Ontario's forests, parks, and even backyards, adding charm and liveliness to the natural landscape. These feisty little creatures are known for their acrobatic skills, vocal chatter, and territorial nature. While they may be delightful to watch, red squirrels can also cause havoc on your property, especially during their mating season. In this blog post, we'll explore the fascinating world of red squirrels in Ontario, including their unique mating behavior, the impact they can have on your property, and how to manage them responsibly.

Mating Season for Red Squirrels in Ontario:

Red squirrels in Ontario have a distinctive mating season characterized by two breeding periods per year:

1. Late Winter/Early Spring: The peak breeding season occurs between February and March when males compete vigorously for females. They engage in energetic displays of chasing, vocalizing, and acrobatics to attract mates.

2. Mid-Summer: A smaller breeding season may also occur in June or July, although it is less pronounced compared to the late winter/early spring period.

Raising the Next Generation:

After mating, female red squirrels give birth to a litter of 1-7 kits after a gestation period of around 35 days. The female raises her offspring alone in a dreay nest made of leaves and twigs, fiercely protecting them from predators until they are weaned and ready to disperse in late summer or early fall.

Impact on Your Property:

While red squirrels may seem harmless, they can cause various forms of damage to your property, including:

1. Structural Damage: Red squirrels may chew on wood, insulation, and electrical wiring in attics, crawl spaces, and sheds, leading to costly repairs and potential fire hazards.

2. Garden Damage: Red squirrels are known to raid gardens and bird feeders, damaging crops and disrupting landscaping efforts.

3. Noise and Nuisance: Red squirrels can be noisy and disruptive, especially when nesting in or around your home. Their vocal chatter and territorial behavior may disturb residents and pets.

Managing Red Squirrels Responsibly:

While red squirrels are a natural part of Ontario's ecosystem, it's important to manage them responsibly to minimize their impact on your property:

1. Exclusion Methods: Seal off entry points to your home, such as gaps in the roofline, vents, and chimneys, to prevent squirrels from accessing your attic or crawl space.

2. Deterrents: Install squirrel-proof bird feeders and use deterrents such as motion-activated lights or sprinklers to discourage squirrels from frequenting your property.

3. Trim Trees and Vegetation: Trim tree branches and shrubs near your home to limit squirrels' access to rooftops and other potential entry points.

4. Professional Assistance: If you're experiencing persistent squirrel infestations or significant damage to your property, consider seeking professional wildlife removal services to safely and effectively manage the problem.

Conclusion:

While red squirrels may be charming forest acrobats, they can also pose challenges for homeowners in Ontario. By understanding their mating behavior, the impact they can have on your property, and implementing responsible management practices, you can coexist peacefully with these feisty creatures while protecting your home and garden from damage. Remember to enjoy red squirrels responsibly by admiring them from a distance and taking proactive measures to mitigate potential conflicts.