Skip to content

Wildlife in the City

The City of Airdrie follows recommendations from the Province regarding wildlife management.

Airdrie is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rabbits, skunks, coyotes, gophers and beavers. Co-existing with wildlife plays a crucial role in sustaining an urban ecosystem by pollinating, regulating pest populations and increasing the resilience of natural spaces. However, it is important to ensure safe interactions between humans and animals by following a few tips.
  • Give animals space
  • Do not feed wildlife
  • Properly dispose of waste
  • Keep pets on leash
  • Use caution while driving

As wildlife adapts to urban environments, private property my attract wildlife. To reduce unwanted activity on your property:

  • Install fences
  • Keep waste inaccessible
  • Choose animal-resistant plants
Contact Fish & Wildlife to report wildlife in the city
Phone: 403.297.6423
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
 

Contact the Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation for small wildlife
Phone: 403.946.2361
Hours: seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Resources and information is outlined on this page about the most common animals found within the City.

Geese

We have been receiving several calls from residents regarding geese in the city. Unfortunately, it is common for geese to be in distress or perish during this time of year (early November) due to stress from long migrations. In addition to this, some geese are also infected by Avian Influenza.

What you should know:

  • If you see geese or birds in distress, please do not attempt to rescue them. This poses a high risk of Avian Influenza to spread to other animals (specifically if infected birds are brought to a rescue facility).
  • For non-bird animals in distress, contact the Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation 403.946.2361.
  • Please allow nature to take its course for birds in distress.

Our response:

Our most responsible approach (while not ideal) is to allow nature to take its course. Deceased geese are being safely retrieved by our Parks staff and we are monitoring the situation closely. We are also working closely with Alberta Agriculture to address any concerns of Avian Influenza potentially entering poultry farms in the province. 

Avian Influenza in wild birds 

Avian influenza in domestic birds