RICHMOND HILL – Spring has sprung and we are not the only ones beginning to enjoy the warmer weather. Richmond Hill’s unique natural environment is home to more than 150 wildlife species, making it an amazing place to observe wildlife this time of year. It also means that interacting with urban wildlife in our neighborhoods is more common. 

From geese to turtles, foxes to beavers, wildlife play an important role in our community. They enrich our lives and contribute to a healthy and diverse environment. For everyone’s safety, including the safety of local wildlife, residents are encouraged to keep the following tips in mind: 

• Do not feed wildlife – human food is harmful to their health. Feeding wildlife can cause them to lose their fear of people and become a nuisance or even a safety risk.

• Make your property undesirable to urban wildlife – leave food indoors, rinse out your recycling containers and seal any cracks and holes in and around your home.

• Admire wildlife from a safe distance – do not try to pet or approach wildlife (especially if there are young animals). 

• Be a mindful pet owner – keep dogs on a leash when out for walks, keep cats indoors when possible. 

• Be patient with geese – if a goose is nesting on your property, leave them alone. They can be protective of their mate, nest and young, but eventually their eggs will hatch and they will vacate their nest. It is illegal to move or harm migratory birds.

Injured or sick animals           

If you encounter an injured or sick animal, contact our contractor, City of Vaughan Animal Services at 905-832-2281 or 1-855-227-7297. 

Learn more about Richmond Hill’s urban wildlife by visiting RichmondHill.ca/Wildlife.

MEDIA CONTACT 
Ash O’Malley, Communications Advisor, ash.omalley@richmondhill.ca