A woman in Gatineau expressed surprise after being warned by the city about a possible $400 fine due to a bird feeder in her backyard. Ashley Robillard recently set up the bird feeder on a tree in her yard, which led to a complaint to the city’s bylaw services. Despite not knowing the identity of the complainant, Robillard received a notice from the city on April 17 while she was away.
Robillard, who values nature and wildlife, found the complaint disheartening as the feeder attracted birds that sang in the tree every morning. Following the warning from the city, Robillard refrained from filling the feeder with seeds and is considering removing it from the tree. She even had to explain to her three-year-old daughter why they could no longer feed the birds.
The city’s bylaw concerning the “keeping, control, and care of animals” in Gatineau includes a provision on bird feeders, prohibiting the feeding or attraction of birds on any property. While small bird feeders for species like chickadees and goldfinches are allowed, they must be designed to be squirrel- and wildlife-proof and maintain sanitary conditions.
City officials confirmed receiving a complaint about bird feeding and dispatched an officer to investigate, but Robillard was not present at the time. According to city spokesperson Nancy Villeneuve, a ticket is issued only if an infraction is observed by the officer. Otherwise, a notice is left as a warning or reminder of the regulation in cases where no one is available to confirm the violation.
Robillard is contemplating replacing her feeder with a larger seed catcher but is concerned about the possibility of facing another complaint. Reflecting on the situation, she questioned the necessity of legal action over a common item like a bird feeder, emphasizing that bird feeders are widely available for purchase, raising doubts about the need for such restrictions.
