In and around homes, encountering unwelcome wildlife visitors is a common occurrence for many individuals. From destructive squirrels in the attic to smelly skunks under the porch or raccoons rummaging through garbage bins, these encounters can be disruptive. However, a recent incident in Richmond, B.C.’s Steveston neighborhood brought a unique situation to light.
Alex Ritz, the owner of Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, was faced with the task of locating and relocating a group of otter pups, a rare occurrence for his team. The discovery of these otters was made in a residential property near the Steveston wharf, where otters are occasionally spotted searching for food as fishing vessels bring in fresh catches.
Upon investigation, it was observed that the otter family had taken shelter under a shed on the property. The homeowners had noticed the otter moving about the area, carrying nesting materials and disappearing behind the shed. A wildlife expert confirmed the presence of the otters under the shed, prompting Ritz’s intervention.
Ritz and his team successfully located the otter pups, which had been tucked away by their mother in a hard-to-reach spot under the shed. After carefully extracting the pups, they were placed in a secure, heated box for protection. Measures were also taken to prevent the otters from returning to the shed by installing wildlife-proof screening along the structure.
Following the relocation of the otter pups, the mother otter returned to retrieve her offspring, one by one, under the cover of night. While river otters are known for their messy habits and strong odors, their presence indicates a healthy environment. Wildlife experts advise property owners to allow otters to coexist peacefully, especially if they have recently given birth, as disrupting their habitat can have detrimental consequences.
As otters grow older, it is recommended that homeowners take steps to seal off any entry points to prevent future disturbances. Overall, the successful handling of the otter family exemplifies the importance of humane wildlife control practices in urban areas.