Did you know feeding birds can cause bigger issues? Here’s what the City wants residents to know

The City of Barrie is trying to deal with growing geese population along the waterfront and the droppings they behind. (CTV Barrie)

City officials are reminding residents that coexisting with animals starts with simple steps, like not feeding them and managing how we interact with nature.

The City of Barrie encourages residents to give wildlife space and avoid interfering with their natural habits. Officials say by leaving animals alone and limiting attractants, such as food scraps or unsecured garbage, residents can help prevent unwanted encounters and keep both people and pets safe.

Birds

The City emphasizes a major concern is the growing number of birds gathering in waterfront parks.

Feeding ducks, geese, gulls, or swans may seem harmless, but officials warn it can create bigger problems.

The City noted bird poop isn’t just unpleasant; it can be a potential health hazard.

According to city staff, feeding birds also causes them to lose their fear of humans, depend on people for food, and linger in the area longer than they should, all of which the City says can harm the local environment and water quality.

Coyotes

Coyotes regularly draw attention in Barrie.

And while they are naturally wary of people, the City says they can become a problem when fed or allowed to associate humans with food.

“Coyotes are an extremely intelligent, family oriented, and highly adaptive species. They are normally afraid of humans and avoid people whenever possible,” the City explained. “While they generally avoid humans, they can pose a threat to pets.”

Officials say coyote sightings typically rise during mating season in winter and again in the fall when younger animals leave the pack to find new territory.

Pet owners are advised to keep dogs leashed, bring animals inside at night, and remove outdoor food sources such as pet dishes or unsecured garbage.

Who to Call

Residents who spot a sick or injured wild animal are asked to contact the City’s Enforcement Services at 705-739-4241. In cases where wildlife poses an immediate danger to public safety, people should call 911.

City officials say the best way to live peacefully alongside wildlife is through respect and prevention and allowing wild animals to remain just that: wild.