Sound cannons at Leslie Barns - March to June

March 10, 2025

Starting as early as this week, seagull deterrence measures will be in effect at one of the TTC’s streetcar facilities - Leslie Barns (located at Lakeshore Blvd. E. and Leslie St.)

Since its opening in 2015, the building’s large green rooftop has attracted significant numbers of seagulls. The roof creates an ideal environment for the seagulls to gather and it attracts up to 15,000 gulls annually. The TTC has worked with experts to try several methods to deter them; and while some of the measures helped to a certain degree, unfortunately, the gulls return each year.

The issue can be seen in these photos of the large green roof on top of Leslie Barns, which attracts up to 15,000 gulls a year - posing a risk to health and safety.

The large seagull population on the roof poses a notable health and safety concern for both TTC staff as well as the birds. To address this issue, the TTC will use two sound cannons (also known as a ‘scare cannon’ or ‘bird cannon’) to deter them from returning to the rooftop, in sync with the arrival of the gulls and nesting season. 

The use of sound cannons has proven to be the most effective solution recommended by experts to address the gull overpopulation. The TTC has worked with both a biologist and noise consultant to ensure the sound cannons are used safely, effectively, and within Provincial limits. 

The sound cannons do not fire ammunition, instead, they emit a loud sound that scares away the seagulls so they relocate elsewhere. No birds are harmed in this process. They were used during the same time period in 2024 and were successful at preventing the seagulls from nesting on the roof. 

What to expect

• Noise will be generated from the rooftop sound cannons. The sound cannons may sound similar to a firework in the distance. The cannons will be pointed away from the residential areas to the north to limit the effect of the noise. 

Sound cannon hours 

• Two sound cannons will be activated a maximum of four times per hour, daily between 30 minutes before sunrise until 7 p.m. and at random intervals. If there are no birds present, the cannons will not be used.

Frequently asked questions

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and patience.