An exemption to keep a non-native animal species has been granted to a Gravenhurst resident.
Carl Zaborski requested permission to keep up to three raptors after purchasing a property in the area in 2022. A report and a motion with a recommendation to approve the exemption was presented to council at the Feb. 14 Committee of the Whole meeting.
Melissa Halford, Director of Development Services explained that all training and licensing of falconry is dealt with through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) “and while the applicant does have the license, because there is a municipal by-law an exemption is also required.” She said that in speaking to the by-law officer, Zaborski doesn’t intend to have up to three but included that should they acquire more in the future.
In her report, Kristen Ford, Manager of By-law Services said that Zaborski currently owns one male Northern Goshawk, which is housed as per the agreed falconry practices and the requirements of an MNRF license. This includes a 10’X10’ structure with windows that can be shuttered according to the seasons with room that allows the bird to fully extend their wings, an entry door, suitable perch for the raptor (a.k.a. bird of prey) and a protected roof. Birds are unable to leave the aviary unless removed by the licensed trainer.
Falconry is a century old practice which entails training of birds of prey to hunt small game. It is a unique relationship which involves strict care, daily interaction and includes skillful health management of the bird.
In order to obtain an apprentice license under MNRF, an intensive 15-month apprenticeship must be completed, where the falconer properly learns the care, training, husbandry and Provincial Act Compliance and upon completion, apply for a General Class License.
Zaborski has been a member in good standing of the Ontario Hawk Club (OHC) since 2003, which originated in early 1980. The OHC is a strong advocate and regulator of falconry in Ontario and works closely with the government agencies such as MNRF, Canadian Wildlife Services and Members of Parliament. The OHC has recognized association by-laws and standards of care and housing specific to raptors.
The intent of the existing by-law is to prevent the general public from bringing in, trapping and/or housing native and non-native animals within the Town of Gravenhurst. Although section 2 of the by-law permits for exemptions, it doesn’t include one for a raptor to be housed within an urban or rural residential setting, which is why Zaborski made the request to council.
Coun. Jorgenson commented that “the report was very detailed and clear and it’s a no-brainer to me to support, but at the same time, it looks to me to have been a lot of work.” He asked whether or not the by-law itself should maybe be looked at to streamline the process in the future.
Halford replied that given the low number of calls received and that reviewing this by-law was not in this year’s work plan, that she didn’t feel it needed to be reassessed at this time.
CAO Scott Lucas said that previously he had been approached on this by-law but only with respect to snakes and that “the process could be cleaned up, as it is a bit clunky.”
The motion was carried unanimously. Zaborski will be responsible to ensure that annual inspections are maintained and the applicable licenses are applied for throughout the year. A copy of the annual license shall be provided to the Manager of By-law Services within 15 days of receipt.
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