Carleton Place urges residents to take precautions amid increase in fox sightings

The Town of Carleton Place is reminding residents to take simple precautions following an increase in fox sightings reported across the community recently.

After consulting with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the town has provided residents with guidance on how to prevent conflicts and safely coexist with wildlife in urban settings.

Firstly, residents are advised to eliminate potential food sources that may attract foxes and should avoid feeding wildlife. Garbage bags should be secured in durable containers and compost in enclosed, ventilated bins. Fallen birdseed and ripe fruit should not be left on the ground and barbecues should be kept clean and covered.

Homeowners are also encouraged to make their properties less inviting to foxes by sealing off spaces under decks and sheds, removing brush and debris, and installing additional fencing if possible.

If a fox is encountered nearby, officials stress that residents should not be scared and can simply use loud noises, bright lights, or water to scare the animal away. In cases where a fox may be denning on private property, residents are urged not to block entrances unless they are absolutely certain the burrow is empty, as to not trap animals inside.

For more persistent situations, the town notes that licensed animal control services can be hired to safely and humanely remove foxes from residential areas.

Additional information is available through the Ministry of Natural Resources website.