Toronto is home to a variety of bird species, some of which can exhibit aggressive behavior towards humans during certain times of the year. The most well-known aggressive birds in Toronto are Canada Geese, Red-winged Blackbirds, and Common Grackles.
Canada Geese
Canada Geese are large birds that nest throughout Toronto from March to June. They can become very protective of their nests and goslings, and may exhibit aggressive behavior like hissing, wing flapping, and charging at any perceived threat.
Red-winged Blackbirds
Red-winged Blackbirds are common in Toronto and frequently nest in urban and suburban areas from April to July. The males are particularly aggressive in defending their nesting territories and will swoop down on passersby who get too close. Their sharp bills can inflict painful bites.
Common Grackles
Common Grackles are another aggressive nesting species found across Toronto from April to July. They often nest in small colonies and will aggressively mob potential predators that pass by too closely. Like Red-winged Blackbirds, they may swoop down and attack if their space is intruded upon.
When are the birds most aggressive?
The birds mentioned become most aggressive during their breeding and nesting seasons, which generally occur in the spring and early summer months in Toronto.
Canada Geese
Canada Geese nest from March to June. They are most aggressive when defending their nests and young goslings that cannot fly yet. This is generally between the months of April and June.
Red-winged Blackbirds
Red-winged Blackbirds nest a bit later, from April to July in Toronto. The males are highly territorial and aggressive through these months as they establish nesting sites and attract mates. Aggression peaks in May and June during active nesting.
Common Grackles
Common Grackles nest between April and July. Like Red-winged Blackbirds, they display peak aggression in May and June when actively nesting and raising young. They become less aggressive by July once the offspring are grown.
Where are the birds aggressive?
The birds can show aggressive behavior anywhere near their nesting, roosting, or foraging sites. However, there are certain hotspots around Toronto:
Canada Geese
– Parks with ponds for nesting like High Park, Trinity Bellwoods Park, Queen’s Park
– Golf courses
– Toronto Islands
Red-winged Blackbirds
– Grand Ravines like Rosedale Valley, Don Valley
– Marshes and wetlands
– Along the waterfront
Common Grackles
– Residential areas with dense trees for nesting
– Parking lots and malls with large trees
– Downtown urban areas with tall buildings for roosting
How to avoid aggressive bird encounters
Here are some tips to avoid unwanted aggressive encounters with birds while out and about in Toronto:
– Be aware of nesting seasons and peak aggression periods from April to July. Avoid heavily nested areas during these times or walk through calmly and quietly.
– Do not approach or disturb nests, eggs, or young birds. This will provoke attacks. Give nesting areas a wide berth.
– Watch for warning signals like squawking or wing-flapping. Retreat if birds seem agitated.
– Use an umbrella when walking under heavily nested trees for protection.
– Avoid sudden movements when near nesting or foraging birds.
– Do not feed birds, as this encourages unwanted congregation.
– Walk dogs on a short leash past nesting sites, as birds may attack pets.
– Wear a hat and avoid loose hair when near aggressive birds.
– Report excessively aggressive birds to Toronto Animal Services or Canadian Wildlife Services. Action may be taken to relocate birds in heavily populated public areas.
What to do if attacked by a bird
In the event of an actual attack by an aggressive bird in Toronto, here are some tips:
– Protect your head and face with your hands and arms, using a bag or hat if possible. Their sharp beaks can scratch skin or eyes.
– Move away quickly and calmly from the nested or territorial area. Do not flail or run, as this may provoke more attacks.
– Seek shelter indoors or in your car if attacks persist.
– If you were struck forcefully by a swooping bird, seek medical treatment. Though rare, bird strikes can transmit infections or cause concussions.
– Report the incident to Toronto Animal Services, especially if in a public location with heavy human traffic. They may relocate or remove extremely aggressive individual birds.
Conclusion
Aggressive bird encounters do occasionally occur with species like Canada Geese, Red-winged Blackbirds, and Common Grackles when nesting in urban Toronto. Being aware of seasons and behavior can help avoid most attacks. Protect your head and vacate the area if necessary. Reporting incidents aids officials in improving public safety. With proper precautions, it is still possible to enjoy Toronto’s diverse bird populations and natural spaces.
