Wildlife

Throughout the year, residents and visitors may encounter wildlife while hiking, gardening, spending time outdoors, or travelling through the Township. These experiences can be exciting and rewarding when wildlife is observed respectfully and from a safe distance.

Wildlife is a natural and important part of the local ecosystem. Animals help maintain healthy forests, waterways, and habitats, and contribute to the biodiversity that makes Georgian Bluffs unique.

Most wildlife avoids people, but animals may enter residential areas when food or shelter is easy to access. Understanding how to live alongside wildlife helps protect both people and animals.

Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife is especially active in the spring because animals are:

• Searching for food after winter
• Establishing territories
• Raising and protecting their young

You are more likely to encounter wildlife during early morning, late evening, or overnight hours. Coyotes and bears are commonly reported during these times.

You can help reduce unwanted wildlife activity around your home by removing food sources and keeping animals from becoming comfortable around people.

Secure Garbage and Recycling

• Store garbage in secure containers with tight-fitting lids
• Put waste at the curb only on collection day
• Keep recycling and compost bins closed and clean
• Remove Outdoor Food Sources
• Store pet food indoors
• Clean up bird seed under feeders
• Remove fallen fruit from trees and gardens
• Clean outdoor cooking areas regularly

Never Feed Wildlife

Feeding wildlife can cause animals to lose their natural fear of people. This increases the risk of dangerous encounters and may attract more wildlife into residential areas.

Keep Pets Safe

Pets can attract wildlife or trigger defensive behaviour from animals protecting their young.

To help keep pets safe:

• Keep pets supervised when outdoors
• Follow leash laws
• Do not leave pets outside unattended at night
• Keep cats indoors whenever possible

What to Do if You Encounter a Bear or Coyote

If you see a bear or coyote:

• Stay calm
• Keep your distance
• Slowly back away
• Make yourself appear large
• Make noise and speak firmly
• Never run

Bears and coyotes generally avoid humans, but they may act unpredictably if they feel threatened or are protecting food or young.

Reporting Wildlife Concerns

Bear Sightings

For non-emergency concerns about bears, contact the Province of Ontario’s Bear Wise reporting line:

Bear Wise: 1-866-514-2327

For sick or injured wildlife, see the Province of Ontario's guidelines.