NEWS RELEASE
BEETON, Ontario – April 14, 2025 – As spring takes hold across the province, Procyon Wildlife joins seven other Ontario-based wildlife centres in raising urgent awareness about the increasing number of baby animals being orphaned due to human activity.
As temperatures rise, wildlife becomes more active and many species—especially raccoons, squirrels, and skunks—seek safe, warm places to raise their young. Unfortunately, attics, sheds, chimneys, and other quiet structures are prime targets. When homeowners unknowingly evict a mother from these spaces, her babies are often left behind—cold, hungry, and helpless.
“If baby animals are found quickly, they can be brought to Procyon for care and eventual release,” says Debra Spilar, Executive Director of Procyon Wildlife. “But each year, we reach full capacity within weeks, and we’re forced to make painful decisions about who we can help. The truth is, many of these orphanings are preventable.”
That’s why Procyon Wildlife, along with seven other leading wildlife rehabilitation centres across Ontario, is launching a coordinated initiative to educate homeowners on humane ways to coexist with wildlife—especially during nesting season.
“All wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems,” Spilar adds. “We’re urging the public to act with compassion and understanding, so baby animals don’t lose their mothers in the process.”
The Trouble with Trapping and Relocation
While many homeowners assume that using a live trap is a humane solution, the reality is very different. Live-trapped animals often suffer injuries, extreme stress, and are vulnerable to temperature fluctuations while confined. If relocated, they’re frequently separated from their young and placed in unfamiliar environments without food, shelter, or familiarity with the area—leading to high mortality rates.
In fact, Ontario’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act prohibits relocating wildlife more than one kilometre from the capture site. Despite this regulation, many animals attempt to return to their original territory—and their young—putting themselves and others at risk.
A Kinder, Smarter Approach
Homeowners are encouraged to use humane strategies to prevent conflict and avoid orphaning wildlife. Procyon Wildlife recommends the following:
- Wait It Out If babies are present, allow the mother to care for them until they’re old enough to leave on their own—usually within 8 to 10 weeks. To ensure all animals have left, place a crumpled paper towel at the den’s entrance. If it’s undisturbed for 48 hours, it’s likely the animals have moved on.
- Encourage Relocation—Humanely Make the space undesirable by: Playing a talk radio station (not music). Installing a non-flammable light in or near the den. Using strong scents, like vinegar-soaked rags in ventilated plastic bags. This gentle but persistent disturbance often encourages the mother to relocate her babies on her own—usually to one of several backup dens.
- Consult Humane Professionals If you’re unsure or overwhelmed, seek help from a reputable wildlife control company that uses humane eviction and reunion techniques. These include: A full property inspection. Locating and identifying the mother and her young. Using one-way doors and heated reunion boxes to ensure safe relocation of the family. Sealing entry points to prevent future access. Avoid any company that offers to live trap and relocate animals—it is rarely in the animal’s best interest.
- Wildlife-Proof Your Home Prevention is key. Be proactive: Store garbage securely. Install chimney and vent covers. Regularly inspect your home for vulnerable entry points.
A Collective Effort Across Ontario
This public education initiative is a collaboration among eight wildlife centres:
- Procyon Wildlife (Beeton, Ontario)
- Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (Rosseau, Ontario)
- Hollys Haven Wildlife Rescue (Dunrobin, Ontario)
- Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre (Napanee, Ontario)
- Shades of Hope Wildlife Refuge (Pefferlaw, Ontario)
- Speaking of Wildlife (Orillia and Area, Ontario)
- Turtle Pond Wildlife Centre (Val Caron, Ontario)
- Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary (Minden, Ontario)
About Procyon Wildlife
Procyon Wildlife, located in Beeton, Ontario, is a registered charity dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned wild animals. With a team of trained staff and volunteers, Procyon provides care to hundreds of animals each year, giving them a second chance at life in the wild.
The organization also plays a key role in community education, promoting humane coexistence and providing practical guidance to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Procyon operates entirely on donations, community support, and volunteer efforts. To donate, volunteer, or learn more, visit www.procyonwildlife.com.
-30-
For images, interviews, or more information, please contact:
Debra Spilar,
Executive Director Procyon Wildlife
Phone: 416-550-9723
Email: debras@procyonwildlife.com