11 Dec Coyotes – What to do if you see one
It is not at all uncommon to see coyotes in the city, especially in areas which are close to forested and agricultural areas. At this time of year in particular, they do come into our more urban areas looking for food. They will not harm humans but pets, especially smaller ones, may be vulnerable so should be kept under control at all times.
If a coyote is seen in a community, residents can contact the City or the National Capital Commission to report the sighting. The information retrieved from the sighting reports may be helpful to the NCC, MNR and the City in future to help identify areas of the City where public awareness may be beneficial.
NCC Coyote Sightings Line: 613-239-5000
NCC Emergency: 613-239-5353
If you feel that the coyote is a safety threat, please contact Ottawa Police Service at 9-1-1 (if threat is imminent) or 613-236-1222.
Some helpful handouts were provided at the November 19, 2018 meeting by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests and can be found at the following links:
MNR Handout1 – Protecting Dogs from Coyotes
MNR Handout2 – Coyote-proofing your Property
MNR Handout3 – Encounters with Coyotes
MNR Handout4 – What Municipalities Need to Know
MNR Handout5 – Predation and Compensation
MNR Handout6 – Wildlife and Protecting Your Property
MNR Handout7 – The Nature of Coyotes
Under the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act it is illegal to trap and relocate any wild animal beyond close proximity to the point of capture.
It is instead recommended to try and reduce their interest in your property by taking measures to remove food sources.
Additional information can be found at the links below.
http://wildlifeinfo.ca/prevention.html.
http://ontariospca.ca/what-we-do/humane-education/wildlife/fact-sheets.html
http://ontariospca.ca/images/factsheets/coyotes.pdf
http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/FW/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_088694.html