I was out early this Labour Day quietly dropping off flyers and trying to cover as much ground as possible across the Ward without waking anyone up when I came across this beautiful Red-tailed Hawk struggling in a front yard near Fourth Line and Louis St. Laurent Ave.
​Because birds of prey can easily injure themselves (or you!) if panicked, I didn’t want to intervene directly or wake the homeowners at 8:30 AM. Instead, I called Milton Animal Services. I was incredibly pleased that they answered right away on a statutory holiday and gave me the contact info for Omega Canine Control Services.
​Fortunately, the hawk managed to free itself and fly off before they arrived, but it brings up a great question: Why do hawks get stuck in new grass?
​It actually isn’t the grass itself—it’s the hidden plastic netting. New developments often use plastic mesh to hold fresh sod in place. When hawks dive for prey, their curved talons can easily get tangled in the invisible plastic.
​If you live in a new development, here is how you can help:
1) ​Avoid Plastic Mesh
If you are laying new seed or sod, opt for biodegradable netting like jute or coconut coir.
2) ​Call the Pros
If you ever see wildlife tangled in your yard, don’t approach them. Call Milton Animal Services to handle it safely.
A huge thank you to our Animal Services staff for being on standby this Labour Day.
