11/27/2025
Sharing some vital information from our friends Coyote Watch Canada
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Learning how to safely coexist in our shared community.
A coyote's "appearance" of indifference to the presence of a human in a natural/urban scape is not due to the coyote being fearless but an amazing ability to calculate the risk or danger our species can pose. If a coyote responded by fleeing every instance a human was spotted, they would be using vital energy needed to forage, defend their territory and themselves countless times throughout the day.
It is so important to respect coyote's ability to forage and hunt without harmful food handouts from people. Never interfere with wildlife. Feeding, harassing, or allowing the family dog to chase or interact with a wild animal is illegal in many communities. Choosing to encourage a dog to pursue a coyote is a risky indifference and puts both the dog and coyote at greater risk of negative interactions.
You may see a new coyote passing through your neighbourhood. This could be a dispersing juvenile about 7-8 months old or s/he is out and about exploring their territory (home range). They may appear to be adult in size, but they are inexperienced and curious about the world around them. Give them space and humanely encourage them to move along. Feeding (even once) can change a coyote's behaviour from "just passing through" to "overstaying their welcome".
Leaving out food attractants may very well increase sightings and keep a coyote coming back to the feeding spot(s). Whether a coyote is dispersing from their family territory or exploring their current home range, do not interfere with wildlife by feeding or letting your dog chase after them. It is paramount that healthy, safe boundaries are kept between people, pets and canids.
Responsible property, garbage and attractant management and pet guardianship goes such a long way to cultivate coexistence. We can all do our part. Many communities have a feeding wildlife bylaw or ordinance and officials appreciate citizens providing information (reporting) about wildlife feeding taking place.
Coyotes are sentient beings, like our beloved family dogs. Coyotes are resilient, family-oriented, playful, and highly intelligent canids. They thrive incredibly well when humans leave them be and do not feed them. Practice responsible pet guardianship by using a leash and keeping a close, watchful eye when recreating outdoors - backyards included. Our pets depend on us to ensure they are healthy, safe and protected.
Most of all, be kind.
📷 Eastern Coyote
Canid Response Team | Coyote Watch Canada
