Tommy Thompson Park Owl Viewing and Reporting Policy

[TTP Management TRCA]

Since Tommy Thompson Park (Leslie Street Spit) is such a popular spot for wintering owls, there are many people who visit the park to find and photograph owls. Despite best intentions, owls are often subject to constant harassment when the park is open to the public.  

In order to educate the public on the ethics of owling and to minimize human-induced stress to owls at the park, Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) has published the Tommy Thompson Park Owl Viewing and Reporting Policy. TRCA will be monitoring Tommy Thompson Park on an ongoing basis to ensure that this policy is not violated. You can access the policy by clicking on the following link.

https://docs.google.com/open?id=0Bwpjb9LhyYATYjIxMTdkNjktNzRkNS00MDBmLTk1NDUtMDI4MDllMjM3M2Jk

[Andreas Jonsson]

"When observing or photographing owls stay at least five (5) meters away."

That might be suitable for a Saw-whet, but certainly not for larger owls?

[P1Guy]

Geez the city has a non-exsistant record for getting people to abide by the leash laws in public parks, what makes you think any of these rules can be enforced seven kilometers out on the spit?

[Moira]

Good point.  I was jumped on by a muddy poodle twice this morning at Col. Sam.  People seem to find it funny??

[lovemypt]

These new rules listed are nothing more than the usual birding ethic guidelines that have always been out there......... I am sure they will have no impact on the "good sense birders" who generally follow these guidelines with all birds.....and for the ones who don't care about the bird's well being.....well re listing them will not do any good.

Having some numbers to call is a step in the right direction but who is going to enforce them........ police, MNR.......... unfortunately theses are only guidelines and policies not actual laws and the police  or MNR will have little to do to stop the bad behavior except to say " don't do that"

Secondly, I am wondering what good are the numbers for a office that is most likely open Mon - Fri  8-5, while the split is open Sat & Sunday 9-4 ?

[TTP Management TRCA]

Geez the city has a non-exsistant record for getting people to abide by the leash laws in public parks, what makes you think any of these rules can be enforced seven kilometers out on the spit?

Agreed, it would be nice if leash laws were enforced. The City is not responsible for enforcing this policy however, as Tommy Thompson Park is managed by Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA). TRCA has staff monitor Tommy Thompson Park on weekends, and they will be keeping an eye out for people harassing owls.

[dawnofthewolf]

The City is not responsible for enforcing this policy however,

Who then?