Job Overview

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Three-storey Victorian residential home
Problem: Squirrel activity in attic with secondary bird entry
Service: Humane squirrel removal and full roofline exclusion
Visits: Three visits

Summary

Wildlife Shield was contacted after the homeowner reported early-morning ceiling noises consistent with squirrel activity. Inspection confirmed squirrel entry at a soffit intersection, along with a secondary opening being used by birds. Due to the height and roof complexity, a multi-visit approach was required to allow animals to exit safely, followed by permanent exclusion. All work was completed humanely and without further activity reported.

Background / Property Context

The property was a tall, three-storey Victorian home with steep rooflines and limited access points. Roof height and pitch required two technicians and specialized access equipment. Work was carried out in late spring and early summer, with clear roof conditions and no snow present.

Customer Concern

The homeowner reported hearing scratching and movement in the ceiling during early morning and evening hours. These timing patterns aligned with diurnal squirrel behaviour. The concern was ongoing wildlife presence in the attic space.

Inspection & Findings

Our inspection identified the primary squirrel entry point at a soffit intersection where aging materials had separated. A second opening nearby was being used by birds, likely taking advantage of an existing gap rather than creating one. Nesting material was visible within the roofline voids. No interior damage was accessed or disturbed.

 

 

Cause Analysis

Older rooflines and soffit intersections on Victorian homes can develop gaps over time due to material fatigue and weather exposure. Elevated roof heights limit routine visual inspection, allowing small openings to go unnoticed. Squirrels commonly exploit these intersections for attic access, while birds will use existing roof or vent openings without creating new damage.

Treatment / Removal

On the first visit, our team installed one-way doors over both identified entry points to allow squirrels and birds to exit safely without re-entry. Humane exclusion methods were used throughout. Ardian coordinated the installation due to the complex roof layout and access limitations.

During the second visit, a juvenile bird was found temporarily caught at one of the one-way doors. The technicians returned immediately, removed the door to release the bird, and reinstalled the device once clear. No harm was observed.

Exclusion & Repairs

Permanent exclusion work was completed during the initial service window and finalized after animal exit:

• Four soffit intersections sealed with galvanized steel mesh
• Two ridge vents installed at the roof peak
• One plumbing vent properly sealed at the shingle base
• Two gaps along the drip edge blocked with galvanized steel mesh

Photos show mesh screening secured along soffit edges, roofline intersections, vent bases, and ridge areas, with fasteners installed flush to roofing materials.

 

 

 

 

Outcome & Confirmation

On the final visit, the homeowner reported no further wildlife activity. All one-way doors were removed, and exclusion areas were inspected and confirmed secure. No additional entry points were observed, and the attic remained inactive following completion.

 

Technician Notes

• Multi-technician access required due to roof height and pitch
• All wildlife exited naturally before final sealing
• Exclusion materials installed to match roof geometry
• No further issues reported after final confirmation visit

Contact us at 647-560-3988 for all your wildlife needs