Wildlife

In a city that has so many water sources, ravines, and green spaces, it's only natural that we share our space with a variety of wild animals.

In the city of Toronto, I've personally encountered raccoons, possum, skunk, coyotes, fox, beaver, and deer.

If you encounter wildlife, be aware that they are likely more afraid of you than you are of them. Humans are at the top of the food chain, after all. Of course, you need to be aware, respectful, and cautious. Wild animals may attack when rabid, frightened, or starving. Here are a few photos and stories.

Squirrels

Squirrels are likely the most visible and ubiquitous wild animals in the city. They are extremely dangerous to dogs as they are clever agitators and do everything in their power to tempt even the best-trained dogs to disobey their parents.

Squirrel

Squirrel


Raccoons

Probably everyone in Toronto has had an encounter with a raccoon. They may be a nuisance, but overall they're harmless unless they are sick.

Raccoon

Raccoon


Possums

Possums or opossums are relatively new to the Toronto area. They apparently eat ticks, so we should consider them our friends. Unfortunately, I've only encountered sick or dead possums. 

Oppossum

Deer

It makes me smile to see deer in the city, but those who have had deer in their yards hiding from predators, see deer as destroyers of their gardens.

Deer

Deer

Coyote

I don't have a photo of a coyote, but have seen them and heard from others who have seen them in my neighbourhood. They appear to be cautious of humans and large dogs, but their behaviour might change when they are in heat.

Sign about Coyote

Fox

Similar to coyotes, they are usually afraid of humans and large dogs. If you are a possum, raccoon, bunny, or a small dog or cat, you may be in danger.

Fox

Skunk

They are beautiful, and when they walk, they seem to float. I'm sure every dog owner has a horror story of their dog getting sprayed. My Lucy was sprayed twice before she was a year old! I've learned to have hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap available to help get rid of the awful stench.

Skunk


Groundhogs

They are harmless and cannot predict the weather!

Groundhog

Mink

We found this little guy in Bluffer's Park. Google Lens tells me it's a mink.  

Mink

Bunnies

Rabbit


Beaver

We found this in East Point Park. He slapped his tail at us when he realized that we were there. I wasn't fast enough to get a photo of his tail.

Beaver





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