We share our city with many predators including coyotes. Coyotes are an important species in the ecosystem and usually can co-exist nicely with human development. Coyotes have a natural fear of humans and are not normally a danger to people unless they become habituated. It is important not to feed coyotes! If coyotes are regularly seen in your yard, they are probably finding a source of food there. To deter coyotes from taking up residence in and around your yard remove food sources such as fallen fruit or berries, birdseed, and dog feces. This goes for public parks as well! Scoop your poop! If you notice aggressive coyote behaviour in city parks during denning season, please report this behaviour to 311. If you encounter an aggressive coyote, do not turn or run away. Make yourself large by shouting and waving your arms overhead. Maintain eye contact with the animal and back away slowly.
Did you know?
- Coyotes will eat just about anything including hares, small rodents, wild fruit, carrion and insects.
- In Calgary, Coyotes’ main prey item is juvenile hares
- Coyotes walk on their toes which helps them hunt silently
- With the decline of wolf populations, coyotes have filled that niche and are thriving
- Coyotes are fast runners, galloping at 40 km/hr and able to reach 64 km/hr
We can live harmoniously with these fascinating animals; there is room in Calgary for all of us! For more information about how to co-exist with coyotes please visit calgary.ca/parks
If you find an injured or orphaned wild bird or animal in distress, please contact the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society hotline at 403-214-1312, for tips, instructions and advice, or look at the website at www.calgarywildlife.org for more information.
