Wildlife Issues in Mississauga? Inhumane Traps Are Not the Answer, City Warns

Mississauga Animal Services urges residents to avoid traps and relocation, and instead focus on humane, long-term solutions.

MISSISSAUGA  — From raccoons under porches to squirrels in the attic, encounters with wildlife are a common part of life in Mississauga. But the City is reminding residents that taking matters into your own hands—especially using traps or poisons—is not only inhumane but potentially illegal.

In a public update this week, Mississauga Animal Services outlined safe and legal approaches to managing urban wildlife. The message is clear: traps and relocation aren’t solutions—they’re harmful to animals, ineffective long-term, and in some cases, against the law.

What’s the problem with trapping?

While glue traps and body-gripping traps are still sold in stores, their use is prohibited outdoors under provincial regulations and banned by Mississauga’s Parks By-law. Even common snap traps are only legal indoors and should be monitored at all times to prevent unintended harm to pets or non-target animals.

The City notes that trapping not only risks harming the intended animal, but may also injure birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and even pets.

Relocation isn’t a fix either

Under Ontario law, it’s illegal to relocate a wild animal more than one kilometre from where it was captured. Research shows that relocated animals often fail to survive in unfamiliar areas. Worse, removing one animal often opens the door for others to move in, potentially increasing the risk of disease transmission, such as rabies.

How to handle wildlife safely

The best prevention is removing the things that attract animals in the first place:

• Secure garbage and compost bins

• Block access to spaces under decks, sheds, or porches

• Eliminate standing water

• Feed pets indoors and avoid leaving food outside

If you’re hiring a wildlife removal company, the City recommends confirming that the business uses humane, ethical practices and prioritizes reuniting animal families. Reputable companies should also provide clear quotes, inspection reports, and WSIB coverage.

What about poisons?

Outdoor use of rodenticides is restricted to licensed pest control companies, and even then, must be applied with caution. Poisons can harm pets, children, and non-target wildlife through secondary poisoning. Animal Services urges residents to consider alternatives and report misuse.

Need Help?

Mississauga Animal Services responds to urgent wildlife concerns, including injured animals or aggressive behaviour. For assistance, call 905-896-5858.

More resources, including how to protect your home and support conservation efforts, are available at:
👉 mississauga.ca/wildlife

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