The City of Toronto has issued a warning about coyote sightings in various areas including parks, residential areas and commercial districts. Coyotes are highly adaptive and are known to thrive in different environments, including urban areas. Coyote sightings are increasing due to the expansion of the city and their natural habitats being encroached upon, the abundance of food sources, such as trash cans, domesticated animals and small rodents in urban areas. The city council has been working with naturalists and wildlife experts to monitor and manage coyote populations in urban areas and has created an education program for residents.

City of Toronto Urges Caution as Coyote Sightings Rise

The City of Toronto is urging residents to exercise caution as coyote sightings continue to rise in several areas. In the past few weeks, there have been several reports of coyotes roaming around local parks, residential areas, and even commercial districts. While coyotes are an integral part of our local ecosystem, their increased presence in urban areas can be a cause for concern, particularly for pet owners and parents of young children.

Why Are Coyote Sightings Increasing?

There are several reasons why coyote sightings are becoming more common in Toronto. The first reason is that coyotes are highly adaptable creatures and are known to thrive in different environments, including urban areas. As the city continues to expand, the natural habitats of coyotes are being encroached upon, forcing them to seek out new areas to forage and live in.

Another reason why coyote sightings are increasing is the abundance of food sources in urban areas, such as trash cans, pets, and small rodents. Coyotes are opportunistic feeders, and they will take advantage of any available food source, including domesticated animals like cats and dogs.

How to Stay Safe Around Coyotes?

While coyote attacks are rare, it is important to exercise caution when encountering them. If you spot a coyote while walking your dog, keep your pet on a leash and avoid approaching the coyote. Coyotes are generally wary of humans, but they may become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered.

When walking in areas known to have coyote activity, it is best to stay in groups and to make noise to alert any nearby coyotes to your presence. If you do encounter a coyote, try to make yourself look bigger by waving your arms and shouting. If the coyote approaches you, throw objects at it to scare it away.

What is the City Doing to Address the Issue?

The City of Toronto has been working with naturalists and wildlife experts to monitor and manage coyote populations in urban areas. The city has also created an education program to inform residents about the potential hazards of coyotes and how to stay safe around them.

In addition, the city has erected coyote warning signs in areas known to have coyote activity, such as parks and conservation areas. These signs provide information about how to avoid encounters with coyotes and what to do if you do encounter one.

FAQs

What Should I Do If I Spot a Coyote in My Yard?

If you spot a coyote in your yard, it is best to make noise to scare it away. If the coyote does not leave, call animal control or the police for assistance.

Are Coyote Attacks Common?

No, coyote attacks are rare, but they can occur if coyotes feel threatened or cornered. Most coyotes will avoid contact with humans if given the chance.

Should I Feed Coyotes?

No, you should never feed coyotes. Feeding coyotes can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans and can lead to a number of problems, including aggressive behavior and attacks on pets.

What Should I Do If My Pet Encounters a Coyote?

If your pet encounters a coyote, it is best to stay calm and to try to scare the coyote away. If your pet is attacked or injured, seek veterinary care immediately.

What Can I Do to Prevent Coyote Sightings in My Area?

To prevent coyote sightings in your area, it is important to secure your trash cans and to remove any pet food from outdoor areas. You should also make sure to keep your pets on a leash while walking and to avoid walking them at night.

By taking these precautions, you can help to reduce the risk of coyote encounters and keep your family and pets safe.