ANIMAL SERVICES, 735 CENTRAL PARKWAY WEST, MISSISSAUGA, ON, L5C 4H4
PHONE: 905-896-5858 – www.mypetmississauga.ca
PLEASE DON’T FEED THE WILDLIFE
The feeding of wild animals and birds can become habit forming making them dependent on a food source or unwilling to forage naturally which can lead to illness, disease or injury.
Like humans, if an animal fills up on junk food or one type of food they may not consume an adequate diet which can lead to nutritional deficiencies or illness.
Ducks and geese naturally feed on vegetation and water insects. A nutritionally deficient diet of seed or bread can cause illness and disease.
When ducks and geese gather in large numbers they can become ill from the bacteria in unconsumed food or increased faeces in the water.
Ducks and geese that have become dependent on human handouts may not migrate and may suffer or starve during the winter months.
Bird feeders may attract large flocks of non-native species such as sparrows, starlings and feral pigeons as these birds compete for habitat with rare song bird species.
Improperly maintained bird feeders or poor quality bird feed can actually cause birds to die of illnesses such as salmonella, botulism or other deadly bacterial infections.
The feeding of wild animals can interfere with natural instincts and behaviours and could lead to human/wildlife conflicts.
Raccoons and squirrels typically live close their food sources which may have them causing damage or denning in neighbouring homes and properties.
Feeding squirrels, raccoons or coyotes can cause them to become a danger to humans as they will lose their natural fear and approach humans.
Providing food for birds and squirrels can attract rats and mice due to the spillage of seed.
An increase in rodent activity can attract larger predators like coyotes and foxes which can also prey on neighbourhood pets.
What can you do to help wildlife?
The City of Mississauga encourages residents to enjoy and live in harmony with our native wildlife. If you enjoy wildlife we would encourage the planting of native flora that will enhance your property and attract wildlife naturally without altering natural behaviour.
Adopt responsible bird feeding practices. Reserve bird feeders for winter months and ensure feeders are clean, tidy and seed mix attracts native songbirds. Bring feeders inside at night to discourage raccoons and discontinue feeding if you are attracting rodents or larger mammals like coyotes into the area.
(See reverse for by-law information and tips to reduce wildlife conflicts)
Page 2
FEEDING OF WILDLIFE IS PROHIBITED IN MISSISSAUGA
As per the Animal; Care and Control By-law 0098-04 as amended,
PART IV: FEEDING OF WILDLIFE
10) No person shall intentionally feed a wild animal or leave food or attractants of any type or in any form out of doors in such a manner as to attract, or be accessible by, a wild animal, feral or stray domestic animal on private or public property.
11) Section 10 does not apply to the feeding of song birds on a property, provided the owner or occupier places seed in a bird feeding device that is sufficiently above grade and maintained in a sanitary condition.
Sanitary Condition means a condition that does not result in an accumulation of faecal matter, pigeons, odour, insect infestation, or rodent attractants which endanger the health of any person or animal; or that would not disturb or would likely disturb the enjoyment, comfort or convenience of any person.
12) Section 10 does not apply in the following situations: (242-11)
(1) the leaving of food as bait in a trap by a property owner to capture a nuisance animal inhabiting or habituating their property pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997, S.O.1997, c.41
(2) the leaving of food as bait by a licensed trapper, and employee of a licensed wildlife or pest control agency, Municipal Law Enforcement Officer an Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Inspector or a Mississauga Peel Police Office, in the performance of their work.
(3) The leaving of food for a colony of stray or feral cats for the purposes of trap, neuter or spay and release program approved by the City of Mississauga.
Maximum Penalty for Contravention of this By-Law is $5000.00
TIPS TO REDUCE WILDLIFE CONFLICTS
o Store garbage, green bins, recycling, compost etc. in an area inaccessible to wildlife and place to the curb on the morning of collection.
o Remove any debris or materials from property/decks/balconies that may provide hiding or nesting sites for wild animals or rodents.
o Conduct a spring and fall exterior home inspection to ensure shingles, eaves, soffit, facia; vents etc. are in good repair.
o Cap/screen roof, dryer, bathroom vents and chimney’s with secure, safety approved mesh.
o Sheds, decks or any structure without a foundation should be screened below ground in a reverse L formation, (12” down, and 18” away from the structure) to prevent burrowing animals.
o Cover window wells with mesh or commercial window well covers.
o Trim tree branches away from the roof of your home.
For additional information visit the Animal Services web site at www.mypetmississauga.ca
