Use of Sound Cannons at TTC’s Leslie Barns
Use of Sound Cannons at TTC’s Leslie Barns
Starting mid-March until the end of June, the TTC will begin using sound cannons on the rooftop of Leslie Barns, to deter seagulls from nesting and returning to the building. The seagulls have been increasing in numbers since the building and its green roof opened in 2015, estimating approximately 10,000 to 15,000 seagulls visiting annually.
The sound cannons do not fire actual ammunition and will not harm the seagulls. Instead, they emit a loud sound that scare away the seagulls, encouraging them to relocate.
Customers who travel on the 83 Jones and those who work or live in the neighbourhoods nearby, may hear the sound cannons between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. The cannons will be activated a maximum of four times per hour, and if no seagulls are present, the cannons will not be used.
Frequently asked questions
What are sound cannons?
Sound cannons are used to scare away or annoy birds. They emit a loud sound which encourage the birds to relocate. Experts highly recommend the use of sound cannons to prevent birds from nesting or returning to a location.
How loud are the cannons?
In the neighbourhood, the cannons may sound similar to a single firework in the distance. They will be pointed away from the residential area to decrease noise. Within the building, the sound will be more noticeable, similar to the volume of a jackhammer or an oncoming ambulance, but in a short single burst.
Why is the TTC using sound cannons?
The TTC is using sound cannons at Leslie Barns because there continues to be a significant increase in seagulls around the building, particularly on the green roof. Each year, the TTC estimates that 10,000 to 15,000 seagulls visit Leslie Barns, resulting in unsanitary and disruptive working conditions for TTC employees. The high roof location also creates difficult living conditions for seagull chicks who are desperate for food and water and not yet capable of flight.
Sound cannons are one of the top recommendations from experts to prevent seagulls from nesting or returning to a location.
When will the TTC begin using sound cannons?
The TTC will begin using sound cannons starting mid-March until the end of June. This timing aligns with the arrival of the seagulls and during their nesting season. After this period, TTC will evaluate the success and determine if this method needs to be tried again next year.
How often will the sound cannons be used?
The sound cannons may be activated a maximum of four times per hour, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. If there are no birds present, the cannons will not be used.
Are the cannons safe?
Yes. The TTC has worked with a biologist and noise consultant to ensure the sound cannons are used safely, effectively and within Provincial limits. No seagulls will be harmed in this process.
What measures have been taken so far to deter the seagulls from landing and nesting on the roof?
Working closely with bird and environmental experts, the TTC has tried many mitigation techniques to prevent the birds from settling on and around the roof, including:
- Installing wires on the roof to make it more challenging for the birds to fly onto the roof.
- Covering the roof with plastic sheets. While this deterred some birds, it also killed the green roof plants.
- Ensuring a staff member visits the roof frequently.
- Activating the green roof sprinklers.
While some of these techniques helped, they were not effective in reducing the seagull numbers long-term.
Will the sound cannons have an effect on streetcar or bus service in the area?
No. However, customers travelling on the 83 Jones may hear the cannons when travelling near Leslie Barns.