Wildlife such as coyotes, raccoons, skunks and foxes are common in Aurora and York Region. These animals can be found in forests, trails and neighbourhoods.
You can help prevent wildlife from coming on to your property by:
- Limiting the food sources around your home by fencing off gardens and compost
- Secure garbage and green bins
- Keep your outdoor compost bins clean
- Never feed wildlife
Animal Services will address wildlife complaints within the town provided that the injured wildlife is located on town-owned property. If you require any wildlife removed from your home, please contact and hire a local wildlife removal expert.
Coyotes |
From late January to early March comes mating season for coyotes, it is common during this time to hear them howling or yipping to communicate and may see more of them as they actively seek out a mate. While Coyotes typically do not pose a danger to people, they do pose a threat for cats and small dogs. We can learn to co-exist with our wildlife if we respect them and take proactive steps to keep ourselves and our pets safe by following these tips:
If you see a sick or injured Coyote contact Aurora’s Animal Services Department at 1-877-979-7297. The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is responsible for wildlife management in the province of Ontario. They have extensive information about coyotes, including a number of useful fact sheets on their website. The MNR asks residents who have observed situations where coyotes are exhibiting no fear toward people, or are aggressively approaching people or pets, to report any incidents to their Aurora District Office at 905-713-7400. Please leave a message at that line or use the auto attendant to speak directly with staff during regular business hours. If there is an incident with a coyote that is a threat to public safety, please call 9-1-1 and alert York Regional Police. |
Raccoons |
Raccoons are common all over Ontario in forests and towns and cities. They can adapt to live in many habitats. The annual life cycle of raccoons consists of a breeding period during late winter and early spring, a growth period during summer and fall, and a winter denning period. Canine Distemper in Raccoons Canine Distemper (CDV) is a virus that is generally always present in the raccoon population but at low levels. Raccoons with distemper may approach people, or curl up to sleep in open areas in close proximity to people. They generally act disoriented or lethargic, but can become aggressive if cornered. Canine Distemper does not pose a threat to human health. Dogs who have not been vaccinated for distemper can become infected if they come in contact with a raccoon with distemper. If residents notice a raccoon displaying abnormal or aggressive behaviour, they should call Access Aurora at 905-727-1375. In the event of an emergency after hours, please follow the phone prompts provided. What is Canine Distemper? Canine Distemper is a viral disease affecting animals in the canine families, in addition to some other mammals. It affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems. Raccoons, dogs and skunks can be infected. The disease is most often fatal and animals that recover may display permanent neurological damage. Can humans catch Canine Distemper? No. Humans cannot get Canine Distemper. Can my dog catch Canine Distemper? Yes. If your dog has not been vaccinated against distemper, and comes into contact with a raccoon with distemper. Most dogs are vaccinated as puppies, and then have regular boosters. Puppies that have not been vaccinated are at particularly high risk. Keep your dog on a leash and check your backyard before letting your dog out. What are the symptoms of a raccoon with distemper? Raccoons with distemper may move slowly or stumble as they walk. They lose their fear of humans, appear blind and confused. They also may wander aimlessly and become aggressive if cornered. A mucus discharge will often be present around the eyes and nose and may be accompanied by coughing, diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, seizures or chewing fits. They may only exhibit some of these symptoms and otherwise appear quite healthy. |
Peaceful Coexistence with Wildlife |
What you can do:
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Wildlife Response Protocol |
The Town of Aurora’s provides animal control services by highly-trained animal control officers, who work various shifts during the week and on weekends. During scheduled hours: Outside officer’s scheduled hours: Emergency call - danger to the public: If any animal becomes a threat or danger to the community, an officer will be dispatched regardless of the day or time. The number to call in wildlife emergencies is 905-727-3123. In the event of an emergency after hours, callers should follow the prompts provided.
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