New Toronto bylaw prohibits feeding wildlife on public and private property
Feeding wildlife can negatively impact the ecosystem, officials say.
A bylaw going into effect April 1 will make it illegal to feed wildlife or leave food out that attracts animals on public and private properties in Toronto.
Songbirds are excluded - residents can leave food out for birds in well-maintained, sanitary feeders that do not attract other wildlife.
But as bird flu rises, with cases recently confirmed in Brampton and Markham, residents are discouraged from feeding birds that can cause large flocks to gather.
In a statement, officials say feeding wildlife can create problems for animals and residents, leading to negative interactions and dependency.
"Feeding wild animals changes their natural instincts and may increase their presence and tolerance of people, creating problems for both wildlife and Toronto communities," the website says.
"When food is left out for animals, it can attract other animals such as mice, rats, squirrels, and raccoons which in return can attract other larger predators."
Residents are also discouraged from baiting wildlife for the purposes of getting a photograph.
Instead of leaving seeds or breadcrumbs out, experts recommend turning your living space into a natural ecosystem filled with native plants that supports native plant and animal species.
3 reasons to consider populating your garden with native plants
Thumbnail image by Cheryl Santa Maria via Canva Pro.
