Managing Wildlife in Mississauga: Humane Approaches and Legal Considerations

MISSISSAUGA  – Wildlife is a common sight in Mississauga, often seen roaming through neighborhoods, parks, and even backyards. These animals, which may make homes in places like attics, chimneys, sheds, or under decks, are simply in search of food and shelter. While their presence can be a nuisance, it’s important to handle wildlife issues humanely and within legal guidelines.

Humane Wildlife Management

If you encounter wildlife on your property, avoid trapping or relocating them. Mississauga Animal Services emphasizes that such actions can harm the animals and their habitats and are not effective long-term solutions.

Types of Traps and Their Impacts:

• Glue Traps: These are illegal under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and the City’s Parks by-law. They can harm not only targeted animals but also unintended ones like birds and small mammals.
• Body-Gripping Traps: Outdoor use of these traps is prohibited. They can cause severe injury or death to animals and pose risks to humans.
• Snap Traps: These are only for indoor use and must be monitored to prevent injury to non-target wildlife like raccoons and skunks.
• Live-Release Traps: These are permitted for outdoor use but must be constantly monitored to ensure only nuisance wildlife is captured.

Rat Poison and Rodenticides: Only licensed pest control companies can use these products outdoors. They pose severe poisoning risks to children, pets, and wildlife, so the use of enclosed bait stations is recommended.

Relocating Wildlife

Relocating animals more than one kilometer from where they were caught is illegal under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. Relocation often results in the animal’s death due to unfamiliar environments and opens up spaces for other wildlife to move in, perpetuating the problem. Additionally, relocation can spread diseases like rabies.

Protecting Your Home

To keep wildlife away from your property, eliminate food, water, and shelter sources. Secure garbage bins, remove food scraps, and seal entry points to attics, basements, and sheds.

Choosing a Wildlife Removal Company

When selecting a wildlife removal company, ensure they use humane techniques, such as reuniting wildlife families. Obtain inspections and written estimates, watch for unethical practices, and verify their credentials and insurance.

Mississauga Animal Services

Mississauga’s wildlife contributes to the city’s unique environment. Understanding and respecting these animals helps ensure their conservation. For more information on local wildlife, visit mississauga.ca/wildlife.

For urgent animal rescues or issues related to animal welfare, call Mississauga Animal Services at 905-896-5858.