Spring into Action with Birds, Blooms, and Green Roofs
Dear Nature-Lover,
As tulips bloom and migratory birds return, this is your invitation to live alongside nature in the city. As the seasons shift into spring and summer, nature in Toronto reawakens.
Coexisting with urban wildlife isn’t just about keeping raccoons out of your green bin (though that’s part of it!). It’s about learning how our daily choices affect the species we share the city with. From design to daily habits, we can build neighbourhoods that support biodiversity and joy.
Here’s how you can make the most of urban wildlife season and become a better neighbour by responding with curiosity and care:
- Red Foxes in the City
Often seen in parks or near ravines, red foxes keep rodent populations in check. Don’t feed them, just observe quietly. If you’re lucky, you might spot pups in early summer. - Raccoons and Urban Trash
Toronto’s most notorious bandits! Use wildlife-proof bins and avoid leaving pet food outside. They’re intelligent and adaptable, and part of our city’s charm. - Monarch Butterflies
Monarch butterflies stop at milkweed patches on their way to Mexico. Planting native milkweed and nectar plants supports their journey through Toronto.
And nature isn’t just animals…
- Black Oak Savannahs in High Park
One of North America’s rarest ecosystems, preserved in part through community stewardship and prescribed burns. - Pollinator Corridors in Community Gardens
Butterflies, bees, and hoverflies rely on patches of wildflowers across the city. These mini-habitats connect like stepping stones for urban pollinators. - Green Roofs Across Toronto
From City Hall to IKEA Etobicoke, Toronto’s 700+ green roofs are havens for birds and bugs, and reduce heat and flooding.
Reconnect with Nature: 4 Places
- Tommy Thompson Park – A reclaimed urban landfill turned birdwatchers’ dream. Spot herons, hawks, and butterflies as part of the Spring bird events happening this May.
- Evergreen Brick Works – Trails, markets, and eco-events with free public tours every Saturday. Join for eco-hikes, native plant sales, and weekend nature play events for kids.
- High Park – Wildflowers, savannahs, and yes, cherry blossoms. Join the Nature Book club, spring Adult Rangers or Urban Naturalists programs.
- City Hall’s Green Roof – See how Toronto is greening from the top down and be surrounded by native plants and city skyline views. Join guided tours and free access to City Hall as part of Doors Open Toronto #DOT25 next week.
Celebrate the Season: 4 Events
This May and beyond, get out there and get your hands dirty (or just go for a lovely walk):
- World Migratory Bird Day (May) – Join bird walks and conservation talks at Downsview Park and birding for beginners at the Tommy Thompson Park Nature Centre.
- Tulip Season – Witness brilliant blooms bursting with colours at Queen’s Park, Centennial Conservatory, and Toronto Botanical Garden. A feast for the eyes, a boost for pollinators and a colourful backdrop for snapping beautiful photos!
- PollinateTO Community Gardens – Volunteer or explore community pollinator gardens that are creating essential habitats to protect Toronto’s pollinators.
- Evergreen Brick Works Nature Events – From spring hikes to plant sales to weekend market strolls, Evergreen offers immersive ways to engage with the environment.
Coexist, Don’t Compete: 4 Easy Acts
- Plant native flowers on your balcony or yard.
- Turn off outdoor lights during spring and fall bird migrations.
- Keep cats indoors during nesting season.
- Reduce your use of pesticides and herbicides.
Toronto sits on a major migratory flyway and is home to rare ecosystems. As our city grows, making space for nature isn’t just nice, it’s necessary. The more we plant, protect, and participate, the more resilient Toronto becomes to climate change, cools our streets, and lifts our spirits.
Imagine hummingbirds on your balcony, butterflies by the subway, or a rooftop concert surrounded by wildflowers. This isn’t a dream, it’s already happening.
This May, take one small action. Plant something. Attend an event. Join a bird walk. Post a photo. Invite a friend. Be the spark.
Toronto’s wildlife isn’t out there, it’s right here. So are you.
This spring, may you find joy in all the wild wonder waiting around your corner.
See you under the blossoms,
Ese
She holds a PhD in Environmental Biology and brings a global, practical lens to everything she does.
Based in Toronto, Ese loves talking about books, museums, sustainability, and Korean dramas, sometimes all at once.
