Coyote safety tips

Campus Security this week offered guidelines this week on what to do if approached by a coyote. The information comes following reports that a coyote may have bitten a nine-year-old near the volleydome south of campus last weekend.

Alberta Fish and Wildlife officials have advised the university that this behaviour is inconsistent with that of an urban coyote. However, if the animal in question is a coyote it may be a juvenile that has been ejected from the den. If this is the case, the juvenile coyote may not fear humans. They advise that if approached or followed by a coyote, make lots of noise, yell, and make yourself appear as big as possible by raising your arms or jumping up and down. Chase it away. When you walk your dog, walk two dogs or walk with someone else. Do not approach known dens.

Fish and Wildlife Division has published a brochure on living with coyotes.

The full brochure is available atwww.ucalgary.ca/news/april05/coyotes.html

Excerpts are reprinted here:

The wiley Coyote

Coyote sightings are becoming more and more common in and around Calgary. While coyotes do not naturally demonstrate aggressive behaviour towards humans, there are always potential risks when interacting with wildlife. Some people believe that eliminating coyotes is the solution. However, trapping has proven ineffective as coyotes are clever enough to avoid traps and poisoning them poses risks to other animals and children. Removing a coyote generally just creates room for other coyotes and the population may actually increase.

Coyotes in Calgary

Coyote numbers in Calgary are highest in those communities along the river and large natural areas such as Edworthy Park, North and South Glenmore Park, Nose Hill, River Park and Fish Creek Park. Coyotes also frequent backyards, school grounds and playgrounds.

Please Don’t Feed the Wildlife

As long as coyotes can find food and shelter, they will adapt to various environments.
The coyote’s natural diet consists of rabbits, small rodents, fruits and berries. If the opportunity exists they will consider your dog or cat as a source of food. Coyotes will become bolder toward humans if they are obtaining unnatural food sources from humans or being fed by people.

Living Together

• Keep your yard free of birdseed and fruit fallen from trees.
• Dispose of garbage and compost debris in containers with secure lids.
• Pick up dog feces (coyotes will eat this too!). Dog urine may also act as an attractant.
• Do not leave meat or suet outside for birdfeed.
• Keep your cat indoors.
• Walk your dog on a leash.

Protecting Children

• Supervise small children if coyotes inhabit the area.
• Inform children of what behaviour is effective if a coyote approaches.
• Teach children to never approach coyotes or any other wildlife.