How to co-exist with coyotes
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Be sure to keep a safe distance from wild animals and
their dens or nests
Over the summer,
coyote pups have been growing and it is time for them to start leaving the den.
Sightings often increase from September to December as young coyotes venture
out in the fall to establish their own territory. Some juvenile (yearling)
coyotes may remain with the family to help rear next year’s pups.
Although you may want to
approach them out of curiosity or to take a picture, the City of Vaughan is
reminding everyone to keep a safe distance. Going near dens is not safe for you
or the animals living in them. It is unlawful to disturb or cause distress to
wildlife and is subject to a $900 fine.
Sightings in cities and rural
areas are common. The City understands their presence can become a challenge in
residential areas and they can also be intimidating to some people.
If you encounter a coyote,
keep your distance and keep pets on a short leash. If the coyote approaches you
directly:
- stop: pick up children and small pets, if necessary.
- stand your ground: never run from a coyote, fox or domestic dog.
- make yourself big: wave your hands above your head.
- be loud and assertive: shout, stomp your feet and clap your hands.
- use a noisemaker: it could be your voice, pots and pans banged together, a shaker can (such as a pop can filled with pebbles), a plastic bag (snap it around), or an umbrella popping open and closed.
- slowly back away: be assertive as you leave so the animal knows it is not welcome.
Members of Council approved
the Coyote
Response and Coexistence Strategy that outlines response
efforts as well as what residents can do to help avoid or reduce interactions
with coyotes. The actions outlined in this strategy are designed to increase your
knowledge and understanding of how coyotes behave and how to manage their
behaviour to reduce or eliminate conflicts.
Officers
are available to speak with and assist residents, conduct property audits to
identify coyote attractants and provide education on how to deter wildlife from
their properties. For more information and tips, visit vaughan.ca/AnimalServices.
The City is also offering the
following tips on managing urban wildlife in Vaughan.
Never feed wildlife
Directly or unintentionally
feeding a wild animal will increase its tolerance to people and pets. Reconsider
bird feeders as they attract small mammals, which encourage larger wild animals
to visit your yard. Feeding animals or leaving food items in parks to attract
wildlife is subject to a $500 fine.
Be a responsible pet owner
Always keep dogs on leashes when
outdoors and keep cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure. Free-roaming
pets are vulnerable to a multitude of dangers. Almost all conflicts between
wildlife and domestic dogs occur when dogs are off-leash.
Do not invite unwanted
houseguests
Keep your home properly sealed
so wildlife stays outdoors. Remove attractants by picking up dog feces,
cleaning outdoor grills and securing recycling and compost bins. Only put waste
out on collection days, rather than leaving it on the street overnight. Collect
and store bins and any uncollected garbage on the same day.
To report a sick or injured
wild animal, please call the City at 905-832-2281. For more information, go to vaughan.ca/AnimalServices.
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