The Toronto Wildlife Centre in Downsview Park began repair work on Friday after a severe storm on September 2 ripped sections of its roof, shattered windows and caused flooding in parts of the building. The weather event also led to the escape of five recovering pigeons from an outdoor aviary.
City officials confirmed that the damage resulted from intense wind and hail associated with the storm. Emergency crews assessed the structural impact and started clearing debris to secure the facility. Roof panels that were torn away are being replaced, and broken windows are being fitted with new glass to restore the centre’s enclosure.
The flooding affected lower areas of the centre where animal enclosures and treatment rooms are located. Water removal teams have pumped out standing water and are drying affected spaces to prevent further harm to equipment and habitats. Staff members are monitoring the condition of rescued wildlife to ensure that any animals exposed to the water receive appropriate care.
During the storm, five pigeons that were in the process of recovering from injuries managed to leave the outdoor aviary. Centre personnel are conducting a search of the surrounding park area and have coordinated with local wildlife volunteers to locate the birds. The escaped pigeons are expected to be recaptured and returned to care.
The Toronto Wildlife Centre, which provides rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wildlife across the city, has been operating on a limited basis while repairs continue. Officials say the facility will remain closed to the public until the roof, windows and flooded zones are fully restored and safety checks are completed. The centre’s management plans to resume full operations as soon as the repairs are finished and the rescued animals are safely housed.
The city’s involvement includes providing resources for the repair work and ensuring that the wildlife rescue service can continue its critical role in the community once the facility is back to normal conditions.