🦝 Southern Muskoka

(Gravenhurst, Bracebridge & Surrounding Areas)

Regional Overview:

Southern Muskoka is one of Ontario’s most iconic cottage regions, defined by its granite shorelines, pine forests, and countless lakes. Towns like Gravenhurst and Bracebridge serve as gateways to thousands of seasonal properties spread across the southern Muskoka Lakes district. The area is home to upscale waterfront homes, rustic cabins, island cottages, and boathouses — all of which are frequently targeted by nuisance wildlife due to long periods of vacancy and open or exposed construction styles.

Whether it's raccoons nesting in rafters, squirrels chewing through soffits, or muskrats damaging dock foundations, the wildlife pressure here is significant. Southern Muskoka properties are especially prone to repeat infestations without proper exclusion. At Mitchell’s Nuisance Wildlife Solutions, our team is trained to navigate these unique access challenges, and our solutions are built for cottage durability — whether you're on a back lake, island, or secluded drive-in road.

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Towns and Communities Serviced:

• Core Towns: Gravenhurst, Bracebridge

• Surrounding Areas: Severn Bridge, Kilworthy, Torrance, Beaumaris, Walker’s Point, southern Bala

• Cottage Clusters: Islands and shoreline homes on Lake Muskoka, Gull Lake, Sparrow Lake, and smaller cottage lakes

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Common Wildlife and Bird Issues & How We Solve Them:

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🦝 Raccoons in Attics, Boathouses, and Crawlspaces
Raccoons are notorious in Muskoka for gaining access through open rooflines, under boathouse decks, or through cottage crawlspaces. Their activity can go undetected for months, especially in island properties or rarely used buildings.

Our Solution:
We install raccoon-grade one-way doors at identified entry points and conduct a full inspection for secondary access holes. Once the animals have exited, we seal and reinforce all vulnerable zones using galvanized mesh and flashing. We also offer boathouse restoration and attic cleanup where contamination has occurred.

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🐿️ Squirrels in Rooflines and Seasonal Attics
Red squirrels and flying squirrels are aggressive chewers that target log siding, gable edges, and metal roof trim. Their activity is common in open-frame or under-insulated cabins, especially on islands or properties bordering dense forest.

Our Solution:
We identify all chew-through zones and install species-specific one-way squirrel exits. Once clear, we seal the structure using chew-proof materials and recommend seasonal inspections to catch re-entry attempts early. For boathouses and open lofts, we apply vent screening and gable closure systems to eliminate weak points.

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🦨 Skunks Denning Under Cottages and Decks
Skunks frequently den under shoreline cottages, porches, and low-clearance additions — especially those sitting on piers or blocks with unsealed bases.

Our Solution:
We trench around the affected area and install a buried wildlife exclusion system with a one-way skunk door. After exit is confirmed, we close the barrier and screen the perimeter to prevent future burrowing. We also provide deodorizing treatment if spraying has occurred.

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🐁 Mice and Rats in Cottages, Cabins, and Crawlspaces
Rodents are widespread in Muskoka, particularly in seasonal buildings where entrances around doors, pipes, or foundation gaps go unnoticed. Mice will nest in insulation, behind cabinets, and even in stored bedding.

Our Solution:
We install rodent-sized one-way exits and conduct complete exclusion sealing with steel mesh and caulking. Interior trapping is available for active infestations. We also provide pre-winter sealing services to protect seasonal homes before vacancy.

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🦇 Bats in Rafters, Attics, and Soffit Gaps
Bats often enter through tiny roof gaps and hide in rafters or soffit cavities. Because many Muskoka properties have open ceilings or exposed beams, bats can roost out of sight for years.

Our Solution:
We install bat valves or cones during Ontario’s legal exclusion periods, allowing the colony to safely exit. Once the bats have left, we seal all roosting areas with bat-safe methods and offer attic sanitization and guano cleanup if needed.

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🐦 Birds in Vents, Gables, and Boathouse Rafters (Starlings, Sparrows)
Small birds commonly nest in bathroom and dryer vents, open eaves, or within boathouse framing. Left unchecked, their nests attract bugs and can block ventilation.

Our Solution:
We remove inactive nests and install one-way bird exits for active infestations. We then protect vents and gables using custom-fit pest-proof guards and fine mesh screening, built to withstand Muskoka’s weather and seasonal use.

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🕊️ Pigeons on Boathouses, Rooftops, and Barns
Pigeons gather on large roofs and boat shelters near waterfront marinas or larger Muskoka properties. Their droppings corrode surfaces, clog drains, and leave unpleasant odors.

Our Solution:
We install anti-roosting devices, including spikes, netting, and slope panels. Contaminated areas are cleaned and disinfected using eco-friendly products. We also offer long-term pigeon management plans for high-pressure properties.

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🪿 Geese and Gulls on Lawns, Docks, and Beaches
Cottage lawns, docks, and walkways are frequent gathering places for geese and gulls. Their droppings are unsightly and unsanitary, and geese can become aggressive during nesting season.

Our Solution:
We deploy visual deterrents, predator decoys, motion-activated repellents, and shoreline fencing as needed. For persistent waterfront problems, we offer custom deterrent layouts to make the property less appealing to birds long-term.

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Every Situation is Unique

Muskoka’s seasonal access, waterfront exposure, and open-construction buildings create a perfect storm for nuisance wildlife. Whether it’s a squirrel chewing through your metal roof or raccoons tearing up your boathouse insulation, Mitchell’s Nuisance Wildlife Solutions builds custom plans for every structure and species. Our goal is always to deliver safe, humane, and permanent results, designed to last through every season.