Tilly, a Labrador retriever trained by Credit Valley Conservation, is being deployed across the Toronto area to locate invasive plants and animals that threaten local ecosystems. The dog works under the direction of the agency’s head trainer, who oversees the program that pairs specially trained canines with field crews. CBC reporter Talia Ricci documented the effort on Friday, June 26, 2026.
Credit Valley Conservation introduced detection dogs as a response to the growing risk invasive species pose to the Greater Toronto ecosystem. By using Tilly’s keen sense of smell, conservation staff can identify problem species early, allowing removal before the organisms spread further into native habitats. The program marks a shift toward using animal partners to complement traditional monitoring methods.
The initiative reflects a broader strategy among Toronto‑area conservation groups to protect native flora and fauna. Invasive species, which can outcompete indigenous plants and disrupt food chains, have been identified as a significant concern for regional biodiversity. Deploying dogs like Tilly offers a practical means of covering large areas quickly, increasing the chances of early detection.
Tilly’s work involves patrolling natural corridors, wetlands, and other sensitive sites where invasive species are most likely to establish. When the dog signals a find, field teams verify the presence of the target organism and proceed with removal or containment actions. The collaboration between the Labrador, the trainer, and Credit Valley Conservation aims to preserve Toronto’s natural spaces by catching invasive threats before they become entrenched.