Urban Wildlife in Richmond
Do you ever feel like something is watching you?
Wild animals live in our community - some of them are your neighbours. While you may not see them, they are watching you!
Some wild animals thrive in a human environment where they take advantage of the food and shelter we inadvertently provide. These species are typically very intelligent and highly adaptable. Their flexibility allows them to live among us - often unnoticed.
Many people become aware of their wild neighbours through an unexpected close encounter. A skunk on the doorstep, a raccoon poking its head through the dog door or a squirrel in your attic may come as a surprise. Potential problems associated with your wild neighbours can be averted by understanding their habits and adjusting your own to ensure you aren’t encouraging unwanted behaviour.
Good neighbours understand one another and find ways to live side by side. By understanding your wild neighbours you will be a good neighbour for all the creatures that call Richmond home.
Visit this web page in the future to learn more about urban wildlife in Richmond!
The City of Richmond is pleased to offer a variety of programs aimed at informing the public about how to co-exist with wildlife and be 'greener' citizens. By understanding the natural environment Richmond residents may take a more proactive role in protecting and support for wildlife and nature in the community.
Snow Geese
Each year thousands of different flocks of geese rest or winter in Richmond, en route from Wrangel Island (Russia) to the north-western United States. This winter, City staff anticipate over 100,000 snow geese will use the Fraser Delta as a place to rest during their fall and spring migrations, with many staying in the region over the winter.
The City’s strategy is to encourage snow geese away from Richmond’s green spaces and schoolyards towards the excellent food source provided by the winter cover crops. The City has trained staff that are working alongside the RCMP to implement this safe and controlled diversion program.
To help City staff better understand the migratory nature of the snow geese in Richmond, please contact the City of Richmond’s Parks and Recreation Department at 604-244-1208 if you spot a significant number of snow geese at a Richmond school or green space.
Richmond Raptor Festival
If you’ve ever looked up and admired a soaring eagle when it flies overhead, or wanted to know more about the hawks that sit on poles at the edge of the highway, then the Richmond Raptor Festival is for you.
Through a series of events and discussions, you can learn about and get up close to some of the fabulous birds of prey that make Richmond their home. 
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Terra Nova Rural Park 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Free event
Experience breathtaking falconry displays by 'Pacific
Northwest Raptors' in the spectacular setting of Terra Nova Rural Park. Follow signs from Westminster Highway and No. 1 Road. *Demonstrations at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
For more information about these or any other environmental programs please call the Richmond Nature Park at 604-718-6188, or email Rich Kenny.
