In and around homes, encountering unwelcome wildlife visitors is a common occurrence for many people. Whether it’s a pesky squirrel in the attic, a smelly skunk under the porch, or a raccoon causing chaos with garbage bins, such encounters can be quite disruptive. However, a recent incident in Richmond, B.C.’s Steveston neighborhood presented a unique situation that left many surprised.
Alex Ritz, the owner of Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, received a rare call to relocate a trio of otter pups from a residential property in Steveston. Otters are not typically a common issue for wildlife control services, making this particular case stand out.
The home where the otter pups were found is situated near the Steveston wharf, a location known for otters searching for food as fishing boats bring in fresh catches. Signs of digging alerted the homeowners to the presence of otters on their property, with the animals observed carrying nesting materials and disappearing behind a shed.
Upon investigation, it was confirmed that a family of otters had made the shed their temporary residence. Ritz and his team embarked on the task of safely removing the otter pups. Despite the challenges posed by the mother otter’s protective behavior, the team managed to locate the pups hidden deep within the shed.
After carefully extracting the otter pups, they were placed in a heated box for comfort and safety. Measures were taken to secure the shed to prevent the otters from returning. Later that night, the homeowners reported that the mother otter had retrieved her young, one by one, ensuring their reunion.
Although river otters are adorable creatures, they can be messy and emit a strong odor. While their presence indicates a healthy environment, it’s important to coexist peacefully with them. Attempting to remove otters, especially if they have recently given birth, can have detrimental consequences. Homeowners are advised to seal off entry points to prevent future otter intrusions.
Overall, the successful relocation of the otter family highlights the importance of humane wildlife control practices in managing such encounters harmoniously.