Mississauga Urges Residents Not to Use Inhumane Traps for Wildlife

Mississauga officials are urging residents frustrated with nuisance wildlife on their property to avoid using inhumane—and often illegal—traps to remove animals. Instead, the city recommends hiring licensed wildlife removal professionals who can handle the situation safely and legally.

Residents are also encouraged to take preventative measures, such as eliminating access to food, water, and shelter, to discourage animals like raccoons, skunks, and foxes from settling nearby.

“As urban wildlife continues to thrive in our neighbourhoods and backyards, some residents may be tempted to handle the problem themselves,” said Mississauga Animal Services in a public advisory. “However, trapping is not only inhumane—it’s often illegal and ineffective in the long run.”

Wild animals often take shelter in attics, chimneys, under decks, or behind sheds. While their presence may be disruptive, officials remind residents that these animals are simply looking for food and a place to live.

Animal Services also warned that traps can injure or kill unintended animals such as birds, chipmunks, squirrels, and mice. Glue traps and body-gripping traps are considered inhumane and are banned under Ontario’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act as well as the city’s bylaws. These traps can also pose a serious risk to humans.

Additionally, it’s illegal to relocate trapped animals more than one kilometre from where they were caught, as most relocated animals do not survive in unfamiliar environments. Snap traps, the city notes, should only be used indoors due to the risk of harming wildlife.

For urgent animal rescues, welfare concerns, or questions about wildlife and pets, residents are encouraged to contact Mississauga Animal Services directly.