Modern Mississauga presents Ask The City - Is it illegal to feed wildlife in Mississauga?

Modern Mississauga and the City of Mississauga have come together to present an ongoing series called “Ask the City.” We’ll share relevant information here and answer your questions about our city.

Today’s question is about feeding wildlife in Mississauga.

Is it illegal to feed wildlife in Mississauga?

Yes.

Based on the City’s Animal Care and Control By-law, you cannot intentionally feed a wild animal or leave food of any type outdoors to attract wild animals on private or public property. However, you can still feed song birds on your property if you place seeds in a bird feeding device.

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. Feeding animals can also increase its population that the ecosystem can’t naturally support.

It’s important for wild animals to obtain their food and shelter naturally. This helps to maintain natural adaptations to ensure their survival.

 You can help wildlife by:

·        Planting native flora that will enhance your property and attract wildlife naturally without altering natural behaviour.

·         Adopting responsible bird feeding practices by only having feeders for winter months and ensure feeders are clean, tidy and the seed mix attracts native songbirds.

·         Removing any spillage of birdseeds or fallen fruit so that it doesn’t attract any other wildlife like rodents and coyotes.

Learn more about why feeding wildlife is harmful to them.

If you’ve got a question about the City, we want to hear from you!
Please send your questions to info@modernmississauga.com with “Ask the City” in the subject line.