Predator-prey relationships are natural and critical within urban ecosystems. Like most aspects of nature, these relationships hang in a delicate balance. Human activity creates a disadvantage for some of nature’s underdogs by adding and aiding predator species. TRCA categorizes several local bird species under regional or local concern, a status that is partially caused by an increase in predator populations growing alongside human developments. Raccoons and domestic cats are two prolific small-animal predators in urban areas.

Predator Impacts

Free Ranging Cats:  

In Ajax, it is required that domestic cats stay within the property of their owners, even if they are allowed outdoor access. This law protects the safety of both cats and local prey species. Domestic cats affect wildlife through predation, transmission of diseases, disturbance, and competition. Globally, domestic cats have been identified as contributors to the extinction of at least 21 mammal species, 2 reptile species, and 40 bird species—amounting to 26% of the known modern extinctions for these groups. Domestic cats are currently endangering a minimum of 367 species that are now at risk of extinction. In a worldwide assessment of non-native species posing the greatest threats to vertebrates, domestic cats rank third.

Raccoons:

While predation by raccoons is a natural process, their numbers can overwhelm vulnerable populations. Raccoons are a considerable stress factor for urban bird populations; when raccoon populations rise, bird numbers fall. In some areas, raccoons have been known to eradicate ground-nesting bird populations.

Giving Local Birds a Fighting Chance

Outdoor Cat Regulation:
  • If cats are outdoor roaming within their owners’ property, consider dusk-to-dawn guidelines: keeping cats indoors overnight can give birds a better chance of survival, especially through breeding seasons
  • Cat patios (‘catios’) and cat-runs allow cats to access the outdoors without the dangers of free-roaming
  • Bells and brightly coloured collars can reduce bird capture rates by up to 40%. When assessing collar options, it is important to consider safety. Breakaway collars are popular for reducing snag risks
  • Plenty of play time and a meat-rich diet can help reduce the number of cat prey fatalities by upwards of 25% 
Raccoon Regulation:
  • Spreading ground pepper around bird houses and nesting boxes can keep raccoons at bay. Birds don’t have a strong sense of smell, so it won’t deter them
  • Secure bird housing and feeders by utilizing wire caging or steel baffles, removing perches around entrance holes of bird houses, keeping bird houses away from climbable surfaces, and keeping bird feeders away from walls