There appears to be a skunk problem on Collins Avenue in District 8. I have received a number of calls in recent days.
So I asked our Public Works Director Beatrice Newman for some guidance. She provided with a short summary of how we may coexist with wildlife that is sharing our city.
If residents are having issues on their own property with wildlife, it is their responsibility to respect the wildlife and ameliorate the protection for their property such as securing trash cans and enclosing areas under balconies. The city tries to do the same with our public spaces.
We are very sorry for the inconvenience that may have occurred from a visiting skunk, but these animals have inhabited our community for a few years now and they are here because their food sources are very accessible, as in many other cities. The city cannot kill or get rid of skunks. We will, however, survey nearby Nathan Shuster Park for any indication that skunks have dens there.
Prevention of skunk problems through good property maintenance and management is the only permanent solution. The removal of individual animals, without taking steps to eliminate access to denning sites and food sources, will just leave a vacant territory for another skunk to inhabit. Please be respectful and patient with these animals when conflicts arise.
Below, we have also provided the list of names of contractors that can help protect home and properties. The first two organizations concentrate on forcing the animal out of the area and then focus on prevention work, like building up fencing, digging out trenches, etc.
1) Eviction Wildlife Solutions – Chuck (owner)
Free estimate, guarantees his work
Based in Montreal
2) Skedaddle – Human Wildlife Control
514.395.4555 or 1.877.222.9453
$65 initial estimate which is used towards the fee, once a contract is agreed upon
Based in Ontario with Montreal office
3) Chaine d'extermination
Price to be determined between resident and company
Based in Montreal
4) Fondation de la faune du Quebec
This organization sets up a trap at the location where there is a problem. All creatures of this sort must be captured alive, they may not be killed/
