A growing number of inhumane traps for wildlife have been found in the area in recent weeks, says the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth (HSKWSP).
Three were found in Kitchener in the past three weeks, resulting in the death of two skunks.
A squirrel was also caught in one of these traps, but was released before the Human Society arrived, though they say in a press release that it very likely suffered serious injury.
“There are so many ways to deter wildlife from our yards that do not involve seriously harming or killing wildlife,” Janice Maxwell, manager, animal services said in a press release. “Call a humane wildlife control company, patch up holes in your roof or put mesh screens over your range hood vents, remove anything that is attracting them or use a humane method to make the environment not favourable – make lots of noise, remove food sources. They will eventually move on.”
The possession and use of body-gripping traps, including Conibear traps and some snap traps, is strictly regulated, and most municipalities have by-laws against their use.
HSKWSP has a wildlife resource guide to help humanely deter wildlife from your property and also gives more information on various species, co-existing with them, and when to be concerned about illness or injury.
