Concerns for Osprey after Etobicoke's Mimico Creek Spill
3 years after a disastrous spill of oily sludge into Mimico Creek and Humber Creek, Etobicoke's Mimico Creek is facing another environmental disaster. Emergency crews continue to respond to a diesel spill near Legion Road and Manitoba Street last Sunday.
The city of Etobicoke is working closely with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) on cleanup efforts and a probe into the source and cause of the latest spill. While containment efforts are underway, concerns grow for waterfowl, raptors, aquatic and other wildlife that comes into contact with contaminated water.
Ospreys are also known as "fish hawks" and heavily depend on fishing Ontario's waterways. They are a common sight soaring over rives, creeks and shorelines, living comfortably alongside humans. Their numbers have rebounded following the ban on the pesticide DDT. Today, water contamination in rivers and lakes along with loss of habitat, and even electrocution are some of the challenges faced by Ospreys.
Concerns for Osprey Amid Mimico Creek Diesel Spill
This 2026 diesel spill in Mimico Creek could prove catastrophic for the local Osprey population. The oily substance not only coats their feathers and potentially impedes their ability to fly, but also contaminates their prime food source - fish.
While rescue efforts are ongoing, these birds of prey need the help of the public. If you are in the vicinity of Mimico Creek, Humber Bay, or nearby shorelines, please keep an eye out for Ospreys displaying any of the following symptoms:
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