Meet Caprice, the hawk who works for the City of Burnaby
Caprice the Hawk is a vital part of the team at the City of Burnaby, where she guards the Burnaby eco-centre with her majestic presence. As a Harris’s hawk, Caprice plays a crucial role in keeping the area free from unwanted visitors, particularly the thousands of crows that gather at a nearby roosting spot.
The eco-centre is a hub for recycling and compost drop-offs throughout the week, making it a prime target for scavenging birds like crows and gulls. Without Caprice on duty, the centre would be overrun with these birds, causing chaos and mess for the community.
Cities like Coquitlam, Toronto, and Ottawa have also employed birds of prey to protect their landfills, highlighting the effectiveness of this natural deterrent. Caprice has been patrolling the Burnaby eco-centre for over a decade, successfully keeping the area clear of unwanted avian visitors.
Caprice’s handler and friend, Laura Lankford, describes her as a fierce warrioress with a sweet side. Under Laura’s watchful eye, Caprice patrols the centre from Monday to Thursday, ensuring that the compost remains undisturbed by scavenging birds.
Caprice’s presence alone is enough to deter the crows and gulls, as they recognize her as a natural predator. Even when she is resting or perched overhead, the birds keep their distance, making Caprice a valuable asset to the eco-centre.
In return for her hard work, Caprice is rewarded with plenty of snacks and pets from Laura, making her job a rewarding experience for both hawk and handler. With Caprice on duty, the Burnaby eco-centre can operate smoothly and efficiently, free from the disruptions caused by scavenging birds.
