Q: Can a person shoot a charging wild animal in self-defence, as a last resort?
Peter Molson, Toronto
A: Yes, as a last resort (that is, there are no legal alternatives) and the animal poses imminent peril. This is known as the “defence of necessity.” For this to apply, all other reasonable efforts have to have been made to deter the animal, and the person, or others with them, must be in imminent peril or danger.
Answer by: David Critchlow, Provincial Enforcement Specialist, MNR
Please check the most recent Ontario hunting and fishing regulations summaries, as rules and regulations can change
Send your questions by clicking here
Originally published in the August 2024 issue of Ontario OUT of DOORS
Contact Information
PO Box 2800 / 4601 Guthrie Dr.
Peterborough, Ontario Canada K9J 8L5
Phone: 705-748-OFAH (6324)
Fax: 705-748-9577
Join Our Newsletter
Watch
Shop
Follow
