by H.N. Wells
Coyotes are a common concern for many Calgarians – particularly for those with small children or pets – and an understanding of coyote habits and behaviours can make all the difference.
Coyotes can be found in most natural environments in the city – including Nose Hill Park, Fish Creek Provincial Park, and Edworthy park, to name a few. The City will often post signage warning patrons about increased coyote activity in these areas. While direct contact with wildlife in these areas is rare, it is very important to be aware of your surroundings.
At this time, most coyotes have entered their denning season and may behave more territorially. Coyotes are most active at dusk and dawn, but as head into May, we might see increased daytime hunting. In Calgary, coyotes are a valuable asset for natural pest control. They are opportunistic omnivores, and their diet can vary greatly by region. Urban coyotes, particularly weakened or ill ones, may forage through human scraps.
Preventing wildlife encounters is the best way to keep everyone safe. Following these quick tips can help to achieve this goal:
- Where possible, avoid interacting with coyotes. This advice is true for all wildlife. An animal that is desensitized to human presences may encroach into human spaces more frequently, which can prove harmful to both you, your dependants, and the animal itself.
- Keep pets on-leash in on-leash areas and keep them close by in off-leash areas. While smaller pets, such as cats and small dogs, area at greater risk, larger animals can also be injured by coyotes.
- Do not leave garbage or food out for animals to eat. Again, this behaviour encourages coyotes to encroach into human-dominated spaces and will only increase the frequency of human-coyote encounters.
If you do encounter a coyote, do not run away and do not turn your back to it. Maintain eye contact and back away. Most coyotes will not approach you. If one does, make yourself look bigger by raising your arms and try to scare it away by yelling. You may also throw rocks, sticks, or shoo it away with a walking stick.
Any concerns regarding coyote activity can be reported to 3-1-1.
