Spring is Coyote Denning Season
Have you noticed more coyotes around the neighbourhood recently? March and April are when coyotes begin to dig and create dens to raise their pups. Coyotes typically do not cause problems with humans, but they can become defensive and aggressive during denning season. It is important to be extra vigilant during this time.
Here are a few tips:
• Please give coyotes a wide berth and keep your dog on a leash.
• If the coyote shows aggressive behaviour, such as growling at you, you may have stumbled upon a denning area. Stay calm. Do not turn your back and run away as the coyote may chase you. Yelling, clapping, playing music, flashing an umbrella or flashlight, and raising your hands above your head are all effective ways to startle and scare them away instead.
Although coyote encounters can be a frightening experience, they are mostly shy and like to avoid human contact. They are also important for our ecosystem as they keep the mouse and rabbit population under control.
Please report any aggressive coyote behavior to 311 and notify the community association at [email protected]. We will let residents know of areas to temporarily avoid.
