Wildlife & Biodiversity

Oakville residents are fortunate to live in one of the most biodiverse areas in Ontario with over 900 different species of plants, 185 types of birds, 30 species of amphibians and reptiles, 29 mammals and 58 different kinds of fish. The town has a number of programs and services in place to protect and enhance these resources, including its Wildlife Management Strategy and an online coyote reporting system.

Featured wildlife

• Coyotes
• Canada geese

Invasive species

Species that have become established in areas outside their natural range are known as "alien species". Generally, alien species do not pose a significant risk and many are even beneficial. However, when alien species are capable of casuing significant harm to our environment, the economy or to society, they are referred to as "invasive alien species". The town deals directly with the following invasive species:

• Emerald ash borer
• Garlic mustard
• Giant hogweed

To learn more about invasive species, visit the Conservation Halton site or the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters site.

Get involved

• Learn more about the species in our area by joining a naturalists' club––check out the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club or South Peel Naturalists’ Club.
• Plant trees with Ground Breakers (with OakvilleGreen).

Educational resources

Canadian Wildlife Federation
Ministry of Natural Resources
OakvilleGreen
Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters
Coyotes in Oakville