City data suggests 'stark decline' of waterfowl on Toronto beaches during summer, expert says

Data suggests measures to improve water quality working, but some worry about possible habitat loss

Maeve Ellis
Maeve is an early-career Toronto reporter focused on investigative and multimedia journalism. She has previously worked at The Varsity, The Strand and the Investigative Journalism Bureau.
More posts by Maeve Ellis.

Maeve Ellis

15 August, 2025 • 4 min read

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Canada geese look out at Lake Ontario, with the Toronto skyline in the distance.

Fewer waterfowl are being spotted on Toronto’s beaches, according to the city’s data. (Canadian Press/Nathan Dedette)

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(This story is a collaboration between the Investigative Journalism Foundation and CBC Toronto.)

A new analysis of city data suggests a dramatic decline in birds on Toronto beaches over the past two decades.