Introduction

Migratory birds are federally protected by the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. It is illegal to kill, disturb or destroy migratory birds, their nest or eggs, except under authority of a permit. There is no fee for damage or danger permits. Local legislation may prohibit the use of firearms or excessive noise and light as deterrents.

Permits for addressing agricultural damage or danger to livestock can be obtained:

Prevention is the most effective method of deterring migratory birds, but most deterrent techniques work the best when a part of a comprehensive plan. Additionally, enhancing biosecurity on the farm is the best method to reduce the risk of pathogen transfer from wild birds.

Deterring methods include:

  • reducing attractiveness of your farm
  • scaring or hazing

Reducing attractiveness

Reducing the attractiveness of your farm to migratory birds can help deter them. You can do this by:

  • Blocking any potential access points to barns, storage areas and feed storage prior to spring nesting season in March. Do not leave doors open any longer than necessary.
  • Removing potential food sources for wild birds in the area such as grass, grains, seeds, berries and vegetables. You should also properly store feed and promptly clean up any spilled feed.
  • Removing any bodies of water or establish discouraging barriers.
  • Mowing the lawn less frequently. This can be either the entire lawn or only the grass bordering bodies of water.

Scaring or hazing

Scaring, also known as hazing, involves deterring migratory birds each time they arrive and must be carried out consistently until they leave the area. Scaring can be used to prevent damage and risks caused by migratory birds and to discourage them from using areas where they may come into contact with the commercial flock.

Many scaring techniques do not require a federal permit from ECCC. These include:

  • propane cannons
  • air horns
  • strobe lights
  • lasers
  • balloons/kites
  • scarecrows
  • aircrafts (including drones where permitted)
  • firearms

Kill to support scaring

In agricultural settings, "kill to support scaring" can be a very effective scare technique. This technique involves using a shotgun to kill a few birds from a flock to discourage the others from returning to the area. This technique requires a kill permit from Environment Canada and justification that reasonable management techniques have been attempted and failed.

Additional resources

For more information regarding management techniques for migratory birds, please contact the Canadian Wildlife Service at wildlife.ontario@ec.gc.ca or call 613-990-8355.

If you come across a single large wild bird or at least three smaller wild birds that are sick or dead, notify the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative through their online form or call 1-866-673-4781.