Ottawa Wildlife Issues
As urban development encroaches on previously untamed areas, more human-wildlife conflicts result. People are frequently confronted with many wildlife species, including raccoons, groundhogs, squirrels, skunks, and a variety of birds.
These animals have largely managed to adapt well to our presence. Humans, on the other hand, are still mastering this living arrangement. It is important for people to understand the need for effective, lasting, and humane solutions to occasional conflicts with wildlife.
Below you will find the answers to common issues regarding wildlife.
| • I found an injured or sick wild animal. |
| • I found an injured or sick wild bird. |
| • I'm having problems with wild animals on or around my property. |
| • Does the OHS rent or sell humane traps for wild animals? |
| • I found a juvenile or baby animal. |
| • I found a turtle or a tortoise. |
| • I found a bat in my house. |
| • I want to learn more about wild animals in Ottawa. |
| • I'm thinking of hiring a wildlife control agency to deal with a wild animal problem - what should I ask them? |
| • Help! My dog was sprayed by a skunk! |
If you can't find the answer to your wildlife question, contact the Ottawa Humane Society at 613-725-3166 ext. 262, or send us an email.
Urban Wildlife Brochure
Check out our "Urban Wildlife" brochure, available online as an Adobe PDF file!
Did you know...
Many birds fly into windows at this time of year. The sun is low in the sky and causes some unusual reflections.
If a bird hits your window, confine the bird in a ventilated box, with a covered hot water bottle in the bottom. The box should be closed, which helps slow down the bird’s metabolism, and placed in a warm area of the house that is isolated from people and pets. Leave the bird alone for one hour.
After one hour, they can take the box outside and open it. It may take a few moments for the bird’s eyes to adjust to the light. If it flies away – perfect! The bird was simply stunned. If it does not fly away it needs care. Contact the Wild Bird Care Centre at 613-828-2849.
