Job Overview

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Two-story Victorian century home with raised foundation
Problem: Early-morning attic noise consistent with squirrel activity; secondary wildlife presence under rear deck
Service: Squirrel and raccoon removal and exclusion
Visits: 2

Summary

Wildlife Shield responded to reports of attic activity at a century home and completed a full inspection that identified squirrel access at the soffit and a raccoon denning area beneath the rear deck. Humane one-way doors and permanent exclusion materials were installed to resolve both issues. A follow-up visit confirmed successful removal and secure exclusion.

Background / Property Context

The property is an older Victorian-style home with original wood soffits and a raised foundation. The age and construction materials presented natural vulnerability points along the roofline and deck areas that wildlife could exploit.

Customer Concern

The homeowner reported early-morning noise in the attic, raising concerns about squirrels entering the structure. During the inspection, additional wildlife activity was identified beneath the back deck.

Inspection & Findings

A roof-level inspection was completed by two technicians due to the height and safety requirements. An opening was observed at a soffit-to-wall intersection where the wood had been chewed through, consistent with squirrel entry behavior. At the rear of the property, signs of raccoon activity were found beneath the deck, including an opening suitable for an adult raccoon and dependent young.

 

Cause Analysis

Older wood soffits are more susceptible to chewing and deterioration, especially on century homes. Elevated rooflines provide squirrels with easy access points, while enclosed deck structures offer raccoons sheltered denning areas. These combined features created multiple entry opportunities for wildlife.

Treatment / Removal

During the first visit, humane, non-lethal exclusion measures were installed. A one-way door was placed over the soffit opening to allow squirrels to exit without re-entry. A raccoon one-way door was installed at the deck entry point to allow the adult to leave, along with a separate provision to ensure dependent young could vacate safely.

Exclusion & Repairs

Galvanized steel mesh was installed over approximately fifteen feet beneath the deck to prevent future access. Additional galvanized mesh was secured at a secondary soffit area near the roof peak. All materials were fastened to cover existing gaps while maintaining ventilation and structural integrity.

 

Outcome & Confirmation

On the second visit, the homeowner reported no further wildlife activity. All one-way doors were removed, and the exclusion work was reinspected with no deficiencies found. No additional entry points or signs of return activity were observed.

 

Technician Notes

The work was completed without access limitations. Due to roof height, a two-technician setup was used for safety. Technician Ardian completed the primary roofline exclusion with support from Blerti during installation and final inspection.

This work was completed by our Toronto Wildlife control team. For Wildlife control inquiries in Toronto, contact 647-496-2211.