SPES FAQ Index Page

Frequently Asked Questions

Bylaw Issues

Can I feed the wildlife?
There is a bylaw in Vancouver that prohibits feeding the wildlife.  For other reasons, see "Good Reasons Not to Feed the Wildlife."  The No-feeding bylaw is Parks Control BSylaw #14 (L).

Why is there a No Feeding bylaw in Stanley park?

1. Dependency - feeding the animals makes them rely on humans for survival.  This can be hard on them during the winter, when there are fewer people in the park.

 

2. Overpopulation - human feeding makes it easier for wildlife to reproduce, sometimes causing them to reach population highs that the park cannot support.  Overpopulated species can also disrupt the balance of other species living in the area.

 

3. Physical Harm - feeding wildlife can put humans in a dangerous position.  When animals get excited they may bite, nip or scratch without meaning to harm.  They can also transmit disease through contact.

 

4. Improper Food - feeding wildlife food that is not a natural part of their diet can cause illness and even death.  Bread is especially harmful to ducks and birds because it has not nutritional value and just sits in the bird's stomach giving the sensation of fullness.  Sometimes the bread can swell and prevent the bird from eating its proper food.  It is very important for all wildlife to eat their natural food because it gives them the proper nutrients to survive the winter.

 

5. Habituation - Wildlife should stay wild.  Human feeding causes them to lose their natural fear of humans and regard them as a food source.  They may become aggressive towards humans who do not feed them, or put themselves in danger by approaching humans in urban centers in search for food.

Can we cycle in the Park?
There are different trails where you can cycle and roller blade.  (Show map - dotted trails).  Note that it is one direction around the seawall.

Can we eat the berries/pick the flowers?
Because Stanley Park is a City of Vancouver park, it is against the law to take anything out of the Park, including berries, leaves, feathers, shells etc.  All of these items are important food and shelter for the wildlife of the park.

Where can I have a barbecue?
Barbecues are allowed in the picnic areas in the Park at Second Beach, Third Beach, Fish House Restaurant, Ferguson Point, Prospect Point, the Hollow Tree, and Brockton Oval.

Can my dog run free?
No, dogs must be leashed for the safety of people and other animals.  There are dog off-leash parks located throughout Vancouver (refer to dog off-leash pamphlet).

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