Contacts
As our community continues to grow, we expand into the natural territory of many wild animals. As they adapt to their environment, they can be found living in our backyards, in and under our sheds, porches, garages and decks.
Although we do not respond directly to wildlife concerns, we do provide information and reference to external services that would be able to assist.
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is responsible for addressing wildlife related issues within the province of Ontario. The MNR typically only assigns priority to emergency situations however they can be reached at 1.800.667.1940
Below you will find information on:
- nuisance wildlife
- sick, injured or orphaned wildlife
- public health and rabies
Rodent Control |
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Urban environments can provide excellent habitats for rodents to survive and thrive. Although the City does not respond to wildlife issues, we do investigate issues relating to overgrown grass and weeds that would encourage rodent activity within a residential area. Please contact our Customer Care Centre at 905.683.7575 to report details if you are concerned about a neighbouring property. Otherwise, please visit the Durham Region Health Department's website for facts about rodent control. |
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Coyotes |
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Sightings of coyotes are very normal, and much like birds, squirrels, raccoons and other animals, they have found a permanent home in urban areas, including Pickering. Below are a few measures residents can take for coyotes, wildlife, pets and people to safely and comfortably coexist.
Coyotes are omnivores and will eat whatever is available such as small mammals and birds, carrion, fruit and improperly stored garbage. The coyote's diet will also change depending on its surrounding environment.
Animal Services Staff will not investigate calls regarding coyote sightings. However, any sick, injured, or abnormally acting wildlife may be reported to our Customer Care Centre at 905.683.7575 or customercare@pickering.ca. Further information can be found at coyotewatchcanada.com or visit the Canadian Association for Humane Trapping (CAHT) website for fact sheets and information on the biology and awareness of coyotes. |
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Black Bears |
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Black bears live throughout most of Ontario, and although primarily inhabit forested areas, they will travel long distances if food is scarce making it possible for them to find their way to Pickering. The Ministry of Natural Resources deals with calls regarding bears. They have a Bear Wise program intended to inform you on how to prevent and report black bear sightings. |
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Nuisance Wildlife |
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As well as being illegal to relocate adult wild animals more than 1 km of where you found them, there are many drawbacks to trapping and relocating them:
Please see the private wildlife removal company fact sheet for information on seeking private professional services. |
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Sick, Injured or Orphaned Wildlife |
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A wild animal usually has a higher chance of survival if left alone. If you feel the animal requires medical treatment contact a wildlife custodian for further assistance:
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Public Health and Rabies |
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Rabies is an infectious disease that is caused by a virus distributed through various mammals, including wild and domestic animals. The rabies virus is spread from either animal to animal or animal to human through the saliva of an infected animal i.e. bites, scratches, licks on broken skin. Visit the Region of Durham website for information about rabies, including how to report an animal bite. Additional information on rabies is provided on the Ministry of Natural Resources website. |