Urban Wildlife

Geese thrive in urban areas like parks, sports fields, and along shorelines where there are limited predators and access to food 

Nesting geese can become aggressive when defending their nest sites. People are encouraged to keep a safe distance, especially in the spring when young goslings are present. Please do not feed geese. Human food can contribute to Geese's malnutrition, health problems, increased spread of disease, and pollution of the environment  

Canada geese FAQ

Crows have few predators, are intelligent and have been increasing in numbers across North America for the past century. The City has a program that discourages crows from roosting within developed areas however, crows are quick to learn where they can roost without disturbances. 

To deter crows around your property, you can install bird barriers such as netting, sharp spikes on roof edges and rails, electric shocking and reflective tape. Ensure your garbage is enclosed and set out as late as possible to prevent crows from accessing it. Use covers to protect outdoor storage, equipment or vehicles. Avoid using poison, as it often kills crows’ natural predators like owls or hawks. The keeping of raptorial and migratory birds for any reason, including as a deterrent for other birds, is forbidden by federal legislation and bylaws. 

Most bird deaths are due to natural causes or extreme cold. If you find dead birds in City parks or in conservation areas, please report the location, number of birds and type (if known) to the Parks Department. 

Over winter, crows die in large numbers due to Corvid Orthoreovirus, a disease that infects them and causes them to die as they congregate in winter roosts. The virus cannot be transferred to humans, but gloves and shovels are recommended when cleaning them up