The Town of Whitby manages invasive species in our parks, trails and green spaces. Learn about the invasive species Town staff have identified within our boundaries, how we are responding and what you can do to stay safe.

Giant hogweed and wild parsnip

Giant hogweed and wild parsnip are both invasive perennial plants belonging to the carrot family, native to Europe and Asia. They grow in many areas throughout southern Ontario and are now widespread in Whitby's naturalized areas, particularly along stream banks, roadsides and open areas. The sap from these plants can make skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and cause a burn-like rash.

If you suspect you have giant hogweed or wild parsnip on your property, we recommend hiring a licensed professional to identify and safely remove the plant(s).

Town response

To protect trail users, trained Town staff have installed warning signs and are applying herbicides to plants located within a three-metre buffer area along trails. Due to the number of plants and size of the affected area, total removal of the plant is not an option.

If you see or suspect giant hogweed or wild parsnip on Town property, contact us at 905.668.3437 or email us.

Staying safe

Follow these tips to protect yourself from giant hogweed and wild parsnip:

• Learn to identify the plants
• Avoid all contact with them
• Keep children and pets away
• Stay on established trails at all times

If you come into contact with the sap, do the following:

• Immediately wash the affected skin thoroughly with soap and water
• Avoid further exposure of the affected skin to sunlight and UV
• Seek medical attention if a burn-like rash appears
• If eyes have been exposed to sap, immediately flush with water and seek urgent medical treatment

European fire ant

The European fire ant is a non-native, invasive species that is a nuisance pest for people and animals. These insects defend their territory by stinging anything they see as a threat. The sting feels similar to that of a bee or wasp. In rare cases, a sting may cause anaphylactic shock, requiring immediate medical attention.

The European fire ant prefers a warm, moist outdoor habitat for nesting and foraging. Reported infestations in Whitby are limited to natural areas and properties that back onto them.

Town response

Currently there are no effective, long-term methods for controlling the European fire ant in parks and natural areas.

Staying safe

When travelling through parks and natural areas, follow these tips to protect yourself from European fire ants:

• Stay on designated pathways and trails
• Wear covered footwear and long pants
• Keep dogs leashed and on designated trails

On private property, follow these steps to control European fire ants:

• Remove potential nest sites, such as leaves, logs and other debris, from your property
• Reduce moist conditions by decreasing irrigation and increasing exposure to the sun (e.g., mow tall grass, prune overhanging tree and shrub branches)
• Carefully inspect all plant and nursery materials, including plants, trees, soil, compost, wood chips and logs, before bringing them onto your property
• Call a professional if European fire ants become a nuisance on your property