Animal and rodent control

As is the case in any busy city, animals and rodents can be displaced.

Whether from new construction or simple DIY projects in your backyard, spotting new animal activity on your property isn’t uncommon. The good news is that the City of Welland has programs and services to help mitigate unwanted rodents. The best part? It’s an easy process.

Residential rodent control rebate program

Residential property owners hiring the services of an Ontario-licenced pest control exterminator may be eligible for one rebate per calendar year. The eligible rebate is 50 per cent of the total bill up to a maximum amount of $200 for rodent control services to the exterior property only.

How to access the rebate program

Step 1: Site inspection

Before scheduling an inspection, please ensure the yard is free from all refuse, tall grass and weeds, food sources, water sources, etc. A municipal by-law enforcement officer must first assess the exterior yard for evidence of infestation.
The officer will provide the following:
- information on how to prevent and control rodents
- a Residential rodent control rebate form and a Contractor form
If there is a concern with the property, the officer will advise the homeowner on how to rectify the deficiencies. Homeowners must address any issues before they are eligible for the rebate. Once outstanding issues are resolved, you can contact the by-law enforcement division for a follow-up site visit.

Step 2: Hire a contractor and complete forms

Hire an Ontario-licenced pest control company and speak with your contractor before the bill is prepared, ensuring it contains all necessary information, including the service address and what portion of the service was to the exterior yard. Pest control services provided to the interior of the home are not eligible. Keep a copy of the bill for your records.
Complete and sign the application form, and have your licenced contractor complete and sign the contractor form.
The City will not accept applications for pest control products purchased by the property owner at retail outlets for their application.

Step 3: Submit completed forms

Submit both forms with the original bill of service by mail or in-person to the City of Welland by-law enforcement division. If you keep the original invoice, you can submit the documents in-person at City Hall so staff can verify and make a copy.

Step 4: Application review

Upon City approval, staff will issue a rebate cheque to the property owner. Please allow 30 days for processing. If denied, a representative will provide the applicant with reasons for the refusal.

Preventing a rodent issue

Look for evidence

burrow holes and droppings
holes or gnaw marks

Eliminate food and water sources

Secure garbage and compost (both indoor and outdoor) in plastic or metal receptacles with tight-fitting lids.
Never place fatty or oily food waste, eggs, or milk products in the composter.
Remove pet food after feeding; clean waste from pet enclosures.
Eliminate water sources such as leaky faucets, birdbaths, and all standing water.
Keep areas around bird feeders and birdbaths clean.
Remove bird feeders during a rodent infestation.
Keep your yard free from all refuse.

Eliminate hiding and living places

Cut tall grass and weeds from the home’s foundation and the property.
Remove clutter from around the home, garage, and shed.
Lift wood piles approximately 30 centimetres (12 inches) off the ground and away from the home.

Protect buildings

Repair cracks in the home’s foundation.
Eliminate entry points; some rodents can squeeze through cracks as small as a dime.
Use metal weather stripping under exterior doors.
Cover drain pipes, dryer, fresh air, and attic vents with fine metal screening.

Coyote/fox

In Welland, the presence of coyotes is a familiar aspect of the local ecosystem, echoing the broader trends in the Niagara Region. These critters have been rocking the local ecosystem for ages, and it's our job to ensure we all get along like good neighbours. So, please put on your common-sense cap, sprinkle some preventative techniques around like confetti, and let's be wildlife-savvy in our shared living spaces.

When coyote sightings increase, it's often because humans unintentionally run a fast-food joint for them. Picture it: a buffet of overflowing bird feeders, compost mishaps, and fallen fruit, basically a five-star dining experience for our furry friends. But hey, the party doesn't stop there—those birds and small mammals at the bird feeder? They're not just dining; they're on the menu for other VIP predators like owls, hawks, and even the neighbourhood fox.

So, what can you do if you see a coyote/fox?

Coyote/Fox Prevention:

Regularly check your property for wildlife attractants.
Report known feeding of coyotes to the local authorities.
Use common sense and follow wildlife-proofing tips.

What do I do if I encounter a coyote?

If a coyote is near:

Pick up small children and pets.
Never run from or turn your back on a coyote/domestic dog.
Wave your arms above your head.
Be BIG and LOUD! Yell "Go away!"
Slowly back away.
Use hazing techniques such as shaking car keys, popping an umbrella, throwing an object in the direction of the coyote.
Always be prepared and aware of your surroundings when enjoying the outdoors. Be a good visitor "leave no trace". Carry out leftover food, garbage and dog feces.
Report coyote sightings.

Reporting Sightings

Report coyote sightings to the SPCA by calling 905-735-1552, option 3

Resources

Coyote Watch

A great resource that emphasizes responsible actions, education, and preventative measures to foster safe coexistence between humans and coyotes

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