Urban Ecology

Calgary Wildlife & Urban Ecology: Why Animals Are Moving Closer

As Calgary grows, wildlife adapts. Understanding why skunks, squirrels, mice, and other animals are increasingly found near homes helps you protect your property.

Wildlife in Calgary Neighborhoods

Mice & Voles

Increasing

Why: Urban expansion into grasslands, warmer winters, abundant food sources in residential areas.

Concern: Property damage, contamination, rapid reproduction indoors.

Skunks

Stable

Why: Thrive in urban environments with easy access to garbage, pet food, and shelter under decks.

Concern: Spray, digging, potential rabies carrier. Den under porches and sheds.

Squirrels

Increasing

Why: Mature trees in established neighborhoods, bird feeders, mild winters.

Concern: Attic entry, chewing on wires and insulation, noise.

Raccoons

Increasing

Why: Intelligent adapters to urban life, abundant garbage and pet food.

Concern: Property damage, aggressive when cornered, disease carriers.

Coyotes

Stable

Why: Prey availability (rabbits, mice), green spaces, river valleys.

Concern: Pet safety, rare but possible human encounters.

Why Urban Wildlife Is Increasing

Urban Expansion

New developments push into wildlife habitat, forcing animals to adapt to urban life.

Abundant Resources

Garbage, pet food, bird feeders, and gardens provide easy food sources.

Green Corridors

Calgary's river valleys and parks create pathways for wildlife to move through the city.

Our Service Focus

Calgary Pest Guard specializes in mice, rats, cockroaches, and bed bugs. For larger wildlife like skunks, raccoons, or squirrels, we recommend contacting the City of Calgary's 311 service or a licensed wildlife removal specialist.

However, if you're dealing with mice or rats—which are by far the most common urban pest problem—we're your experts.

Mice or Rats in Your Home?

We specialize in rodent control. Same-day service available.