There's about to be a bit of ruckus at the TTC's Leslie Barns property this week as officials prepare to use sound cannons to deter seagulls from nesting atop the streetcar maintenance and storage facility.
Since Leslie Barns opened in 2015, the building's green rooftop has attracted a large number of seagulls to the Lakeshore Boulevard East and Leslie Street location.
In a single year, the Leslie Barns roof can attract up to 15,000 seagulls.
On Monday, the TTC said the birds pose a notable health and safety concern for transit staff because of unsanitary conditions, as well as issues for the TTC's budget, due to increased maintenance costs.
The birds also pose a risk to themselves when nesting at Leslie Barns, as chicks can often fall off the roof.
In response, the TTC has prepared two sound cannons — also known as scare cannon, or bird cannon — to address the issue in sync with the arrival of nesting season.
The cannons do not fire ammunition but instead emit a loud sound intended to scare the seagulls away. The TTC said no birds are harmed in the process.
A biologist and a noise consultant have both reportedly worked with the TTC to ensure the sound cannons are used safely, effectively and within provincial noise limits.
The sounds cannons were used by the TTC in 2024 and were apparently successful in preventing seagulls from nesting on the roof.
What to expect if you live in the area
For those in the area, the TTC said the cannons may sound similar to a firework in the distance.
Cannons will be pointed away from northern residential areas in an attempt to reduce noise pollution.
Two sound cannons will reportedly be used at random intervals for a maximum of four times per hour daily, starting from 30 minutes before sunrise until 7 p.m.
If no seagulls are present, sound cannons will not be used.
