Coyotes are all too common in the London area during the winter months. These urban predators are opportunistic creatures, usually just looking for their next meal as they gear up for mating season in the Spring.
Land Management Technician for the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) said the UTRCA receives roughly 10-12 reports of coyote sightings a year in London. The city is teeming with natural beauty, including dense forests and the Thames River, which makes it a welcome environment for all kinds of wildlife, including coyotes.
“We have lots of forested area, lots of natural areas that are home to the coyotes,” he said. “A lot of these natural areas on the edge of the city are adjacent to rural natural areas, so it’s really easy corridors for coyotes to come into the city.”
Williamson said urban coyotes specifically tend to look for easy meals. For those worried that coyotes might try to find their next snack in their backyards, Williamson recommends taking these steps to deter coyotes from sneaking in:
- Regularly clean up pet waste
- Make sure food waste/garbage is in a secure container
- Remove bird baths and bird feeders
- Install motion sensor lights
- Fence in your backyard
“When you have those situations in an urban centre, that can really bring coyotes in,” said Williamson of homeowners who don’t take the above steps.
Pet safety
Coyote season also brings with it a host of safety concerns for pet owners. Dog walkers especially should always keep their pets on a leash, which Williamson said is already mandated as part of a city by-law. But he also added that certain walking areas may pose a greater risk to pet safety.
“Along the banks of the Thames River, they really like those areas where they can put a den in,” he said.
Forested trails are also hot spots for coyotes, so try to avoid these areas while walking your pet as much as possible. Williamson also said that the early hours of the morning and the early evenings are more commonly when coyotes emerge seeking a snack.
“Especially at the dusk and dawn times of the day, those are the times you want to be a little more vigilant,” said Williamson.
If you do spot a coyote or are followed by one while out on a walk, here are some simple steps to take to keep you and your pet safe:
- Don’t run
- Make a low growling noise
- Yell, or make other loud noises like banging sticks together
- Make yourself appear big by waving your arms
- Contact the UTRCA to report the sighting, or the police if you feel you are in danger
Ultimately, Williamson said that living in the Forest City means understanding that wildlife is natural. Coyote season in 2021 has been on par so far with other years, with an average amount of these urban predators making appearances throughout the city.
“They’re not to be afraid of, they’re just something to be aware of,” said Williamson.
For more information on coyote safety in London, visit the UTRCA website.
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