Urban sprawl has led to a loss of habitat for animals and an increase in interactions with humans. Several animal species have managed to adapt to our cities, which offer them refuge and an excellent source of food.
Urban wildlife has a positive impact on biodiversity and the region’s ecological balance. Attempting to eliminate them by trapping, killing or relocating them is ineffective. We must learn to live together harmoniously.
The Act respecting the conservation and development of wildlife
Section 67 of the Act respecting the conservation and development of wildlife explains that:
“No person or person assisting him may kill or capture an animal attacking him or causing damage to his property or to property in his custody or care where he can frighten the animal away or prevent it from causing damage. No person may shoot or capture an animal that is causing damage to property or that must be moved for purposes of public interest, except under the conditions determined by regulation of the Minister.”
Deterrent measures
You should therefore prioritise deterrent methods to keep unwanted animals away, reserving capture as a last resort.
Consult the Green Line advice sheet to find out about preventive and deterrent solutions for keeping raccoons, groundhogs and squirrels at a distance.
To find out more
Here are some other useful sources of information that may answer your questions: