The Toronto Field Naturalists invites you to sign this petition and help make Toronto Islands a Bird Sanctuary under the Migratory Birds Act!

Toronto Islands are a critical stopover site for 286 species of migratory birds during the Spring and Fall--songbirds, shorebirds, raptors and waterfowl. In spring, many of these birds have made a 4000-7000 kilometer journey from Central or South America, and have just crossed Lake Ontario. The shoreline available to them for re-fueling is limited. Toronto Islands form a crucial part of this. On the trip back south, the Toronto Islands are a place to put on fat for the long journey ahead. In winter, the open waters of Lake Ontario and the island shores also provide critical foraging for Arctic-nesting ducks. Help make Toronto a safe haven for birds!

Your signature is in support of a motion put forward to City Council by Councilor Joe Cressy MM34.13. The motion recommends City Council request the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change designate the Toronto Islands a Bird Sanctuary under the Migratory Birds Act. It also requests Council to enact the appropriate regulations arising from this designation. The motion has been referred to Parks and Environment committee and will be considered on January 18th, 2018

The designation Bird Sanctuary will permit more stringent controls on human use of critical foraging habitat--such as destruction of vegetation or off-leash dog-walking.

Thanks!