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Some believe that trapping birds is an effective method to remove them from your property. However, there are several reasons why trapping is not an effective method of removal or deterrence and is usually only a temporary solution. Humane Wildlife Control focuses on exclusion or bird proofing rather than trapping. Here's why:
In Ontario, trapping and relocation is illegal
According to Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources regulations, if you trap a bird, it must be released close to where it was trapped. If relocated less than a kilometre away, it is extremely likely that the bird will return to its nest or roosting area (i.e. your house). If relocated more than a kilometre away, in contravention of Ontario regulations, birds have strong homing instincts and will likely return anyway. Improper use of a trap that results in animal suffering could lead to animal cruelty charges through the Ontario SPCA Act.
Live trapping causes undue stress
Trapping birds in a live trap (i.e. a cage trap) causes great stress on the animal, and they may seriously injure themselves trying to escape. Depending on the location of the trap, the bird may be exposed to the elements (sun or cold) for a long period of time and may die of exposure, starvation or dehydration. Body gripping traps are illegal unless you have a provincially-issued trapping licence. They also leave the birds defenceless against predators, such as hawks.
Separating a mother from her babies will cause them to die
If a mother bird is trapped or relocated and separated from her eggs or babies, it is likely that the babies will die from starvation or dehydration. Or they will be forced to leave the nest prematurely and become injured or eaten by predators. Humane Wildlife Control uses specially-designed "baby boxes" that we pioneered to allow the mother to feed her young without blocking vents or further damaging your property.
Trapping alone does not solve the problem
Trapping a single bird will only mean that you have cleared the way for other birds to nest. These animals have adapted well to urban environments and will seek shelter wherever possible. Humane Wildlife Control uses proven removal techniques, deterrents (e.g. bird spikes, screening) and guaranteed wildlife proofing to ensure that the birds are removed safely and your house or other building is sealed completely to prevent re-entry.
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