Q: I think I have an animal living on my balcony, is this normal?

A: People are often surprised to find a nest on a balcony, especially when it is several stories up. Animals like squirrels, who are great climbers and can easily climb brick or stone, or jump from a nearby tree branch, and birds will move onto a balcony to make a nest to have their babies. They normally move in during the winter or early spring when the area is not being used. Common places to find a nest include under a BBQ cover, in an air conditioner sleeve, in a railing, in storage containers and even patio furniture cushions. A balcony offers a safe haven from predators, especially for animals that nest in trees as the leaves are not yet out and the newborn babies would be very exposed.

It is important to check your BBQ for nests prior to lighting for the first use of the season.

Q: What can I do to get the animal to move on?

A: Since there are likely babies you want to be sure not to take an action that will leave you with babies to deal with. Do not try to move the nest as this may cause mom to leave you with the babies.

For Squirrels if mom has not had the babies yet, just the simple act of someone on the balcony may encourage her to move. However, if she does not move, she likely already has a nest of helpless babies. Trapping and relocating is not a good idea, click here to find out more.

This is a temporary situation. The best thing is to give mom some time to bond to her babies and for them to grow. A few weeks makes a big difference for squirrels, who are born with no fur and their eyes closed. By four weeks they are fully furred and looking like squirrels. In many cases mom will move the young herself as the babies get bigger and the leaves are coming out.

If after a grace period the squirrel is still there you can try encourage her to move. Start by opening the patio door or a window a bit. The smells and sounds will pass through the screen and indicate a danger. After a couple days you can try putting some worn socks or dog hair in a mesh bag (a panty hose sock or an onion bag) this will introduce predator smells to the area. You can also turn a light on at night as this is when squirrels are trying to sleep and rest.

For Birds again the best thing is to give a grace period. Usually by the time you are hearing the babies they will soon be flying with mom. Do not disturb the birds, they can not leave until they can fly. Once you are certain they have moved on, and there is no signs of activity, you can take the nest apart. Keep and eye on the area and if you see signs of nesting materials such as twigs, you need to keep removing them before the nest is complete. Trying to keep your balcony free of clutter also helps discourage future nesting.