While removing beavers from an area may save a few trees, leaving them in place brings in an abundance of life to our community.

When beavers build dams in urban areas however, they can sometimes flood roadways or cause damage to property. Learn how to manage conflict with beavers in urban areas.

Beavers are called the “architects of biodiversity”, building impressive structures in our waterway that can cause areas of land to flood. Turning streams into ponds creates more habitat for other types of wildlife to thrive, such as fish, frogs, turtles, muskrat and otters. Beavers also open forest canopy by cutting down trees and letting in the light. This allows more plants to grow, creating more wildlife habitat.

Canadian geese are one of the most common animals in our community. They play an important role in our ecosystem by consuming and dispersing various seeding plants and contributing to soil health through nutrients found in their feces.

You should never approach a Canada goose, as it can be protective of their mate, nest and young. Avoid feeding geese as they can become dependent on us for food. Things like bread and crackers provide no nutritional value to geese and can be harmful to all waterfowl.

Under the federal Migratory Bird Convention Act, it is illegal to harass, move, harm or kill any migratory bird or migratory bird eggs. It is also illegal to disturb the nest site of a migratory bird without a permit. If a goose or duck is nesting on your property, be patient and leave them alone until the eggs hatch and the birds leave the nest.

Learn more about how to deter geese and other birds from nesting on your property.

Coyotes are one of the most important animals to the ecological health of our community. Being the top urban predator, they keep our wildlife populations in balance.

Coyotes are generally shy and cautious unless they are sick or have been fed by humans. They are active year-round but are most often seen at dawn, dusk, and late at night. Coyotes typically breed between late January and early March and may be bolder and take more risks during these months.

Coyote attacks are very rare. However, it is important to take some basic precautions when walking in areas where coyotes live.

To avoid conflicts with coyotes:

• Do not leave food on your property
• Keep dogs leashed
• Keep cats indoors
• Never chase, corner, or harass a coyote
• Supervise children and pets outside

If you encounter a coyote:

• Do not run or turn your back on the animal
• Make loud noises
• Make yourself appear as large as possible
• Throw objects in the direction of the coyote to scare it away

If you see a coyote that you believe poses an immediate danger to public safety, call 9-1-1.

If you see a coyote that appears to be sick, injured, or orphaned, contact us at 905-640-1900 ext. 2230.

Learn more about managing conflict with coyotes in our community.

Ontario is home to eight species of native turtles. Unfortunately, our turtle populations are declining rapidly. The wood turtle and spotted turtle are now endangered and the other six species are at risk of becoming endangered.

Our team is available 24 hours a day to help protect these incredible animals. Please contact us immediately at 905-640-1900 ext. 2230 if you see a turtle:

• On the road
• Laying eggs
• With an injury

We help turtles safely cross roads, protect their nest sites from predators and provide first aid for injured turtles.

Learn about the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre and their efforts to protect and conserve Ontario’s native turtles and their habitat.

Wild pigs are recognized as one the most invasive and damaging mammals on Earth. Their rooting, trampling, and wallowing behaviour can destroy the natural environment and cause extensive damage to crop and agricultural lands. They can spread parasites and diseases such as E.coli and Salmonella to wildlife, livestock, and humans. They contaminate water sources when they defecate and urinate in waterways. Wild pigs compete with and prey on native species. They are very difficult and expensive to control.

Wild Pigs include any pig that is found outside of a fence that is not contained or under the physical control of any person is considered a wild pig. This includes free roaming pigs that are domesticated pig breeds, such as those that are, commonly farmed, and pot-bellied pigs; Eurasian wild boar; or hybrids.

Learn more about about Wild Pigs and what you can do to help on the Ontario Website.