Autumn season means increased coyote sightings in Oshawa

With the arrival of fall comes the increased sightings of coyotes in urban areas and often exaggerated fears from residents about the safety of their children and pets.

The City of Oshawa, in its annual reminder, asks people in the community to use caution around natural areas in their neighbourhood after recent coyote sightings, which are more frequent in the fall during the dispersal of pack members.

Coyotes can become accustomed to urban environments and lose their fear of humans, often due to the abundance of food sources. To minimize encounters, residents and property owners are encouraged to wildlife proof their property, adhere to leash by-laws, supervise pets when in the yard and to not feed coyotes.

By reporting wildlife sightings to Service Oshawa at service.oshawa.ca, by email at [email protected] or by phone at (905) 436-3311, residents can also help monitor common locations and help determine if neighbourhood specific communications should be sent or signage posted.

What do I do if I encounter a coyote?

• Stop and pick up small children and pets.
• Stand still, never run from or turn your back on a coyote.
• Make yourself big, wave your arms above your head.
• Be loud and assertive.
• Slowly back away, keeping an eye on the animal.

How can I prevent coyotes from visiting my yard?

• Remove food attractants from your yard – secure your garbage, keep pet food indoors, clean up spilled bird seed and fallen fruits.
• Keep your property clean – trim back bushes and weeds, scoop your dog poop, keep your barbeque area clean.
• Secure your home and sheds – seal openings into and under buildings, decks and porches.
• Be a good pet owner – keep your dog on a leash and supervise them when they are outdoors.
• Bring your pets in at night.

The city only responds to urban wildlife (e.g. raccoons, squirrels, foxes, skunks and bats) living on private property if the animal appears sick or injured. Complaints and inquiries regarding urban wildlife on private property should be directed to a qualified wildlife or pest control service.

Learn more on the City of Oshawa Wildlife webpage at Oshawa.ca/Coyotes, including tips to reduce coyote encounters, so that residents, pets and wildlife can co-exist safely.

Residents are also invited to take the free e-learning course Coyotes in the Urban Landscape online at www.coyotewatchcanada.com.