The Access Richmond Hill Contact Centre provides assistance for general inquiries, responds to questions or concerns regarding programs and services as well as accepts in person payments.
905-771-8800
Hours of Service:
Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Report a problem with a service, e.g. missed garbage collection, overnight parking, potholes, street lights, etc.
Wildlife play an important role in our community. They enrich our lives and contribute to a healthy and diverse environment. Richmond Hill has many unique and valuable natural features that have long been enjoyed by residents and visitors. Many of these areas are located on the Oak Ridges Moraine and include wetlands, kettle lakes, forests and the headwaters of three large river systems. Together these natural features are home to more than 150 wildlife species, including 11 provincially and federally recognized species at risk.
Observing and interacting with wildlife is a common in Richmond Hill. We strive to provide residents with information about urban wildlife so that they understand and know how to peacefully co-exist with them in our community.
Beavers |
Learn how to prevent conflicts with beavers on private property. |
Canada geese |
Interactions with Canada geese commonly occur from March to May (breeding season). They can be protective of their mate, nest and young, so providing them with space is important. Residents should not feed geese as they become dependent on us for food, causing them to lose their ability to seek their own food or migrate south. Items like bread and crackers provide no nutritional value. Under the federal Migratory Bird Convention Act, it is illegal to harass, move, harm or kill any migratory bird or migratory bird eggs. It is also illegal to disturb the nest site of a migratory bird without a migratory bird permit. Therefore, if a goose or duck is nesting on your property, you will have to be patient and leave them alone until the eggs hatch and the birds vacate the nest. Richmond Hill has a Canada Goose Management Plan to address the number of geese in our public parks and spaces. Learn how to deter Canada Geese and other birds from your property. |
Coyotes |
What should you do if you encounter a coyote?
If a coyote poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety, please contact the police by calling 9-1-1. If you encounter a sick or injured coyote, City of Vaughan Animal Services at 905-832-2281 or 1-855-227-7297. Learn more information about coyotes. |
Foxes |
Learn more information about foxes. |
Raccoons |
To avoid conflicts, ensure your home is in good repair and remove food such as bird seed, pet food and fallen fruit. You should also properly secure your garbage cans and green bins. Learn more about living with raccoons. |
Turtles |
The Midland painted turtle and the Snapping turtle can often be found in Richmond Hill. Midland painted turtles may be confused with the invasive Red-eared slider, a common pet species that has been released into the wild. |
Residents are encouraged to admire wildlife from a safe distance and to not approach or touch them.
How to make your property undesirable to wildlife |
Here are some ways to deter wildlife from your property:
In Ontario, most bird nests are protected under law and cannot be disturbed during the breeding season. Depending on the species of bird, different federal or provincial rules will apply. Learn more about how you can avoid conflicts with wildlife. |
How to stay safe around wildlife |
Here are some precautions you can take to keep your family and pets safe around wildlife:
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The dangers of feeding wildlife |
Please do not feed wildlife as they can lose their fear of people and become a nuisance or even a safety risk. In addition, human food is not nutritious enough for wildlife and may cause serious health problems. Learn more about the dangers of feeding wildlife. |
What to do if you find an injured animal |
If you find an injured animal, please contact City of Vaughan Animal Services at 905-832-2281 or 1-855-227-7297 |
What to do if you find an orphaned animal |
Many times an infant animal may appear abandoned but is simply waiting for its parent to return. The following are tips on determining if an animal is orphaned and in need of assistance:
If you require assistance, please contact City of Vaughan Animal Services at 905-832-2281 or 1-855-227-7297 |
What to do if you see a sick animal |
If you see an animal you believe to be sick:
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What to do if you find a dead animal |
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Learn more about wildlife-related topics in Richmond Hill and Ontario: