Coyote sightings and safety in Oshawa
Community members are being asked to be cautious after a child was bitten by a coyote at Northway Court Park on Thursday, July 1, 2021. The child sustained non-life threatening injuries and was taken to a local hospital and treated for the bite.
Oshawa Municipal Law Enforcement Officers and Durham Regional Police responded yesterday and are working closely together to further investigate and take appropriate action. City signs have been installed advising residents of coyote activity in the area.
The City of Oshawa offers tips for wildlife proofing your property and more information on how to report coyote sightings.
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.
If you see it, report it!
Community members are encouraged to report sightings to Service Oshawa online service.oshawa.ca, by email [email protected] or by telephone 905-436-3311. By reporting wildlife sightings, you are helping the City to monitor and address common locations.
Residents are reminded that the City only responds to urban wildlife calls if the animal is sick or has been injured. Additional information and resources on urban wildlife are available on the City’s Wildlife webpage.
Learn more
Learn more on the City’s Wildlife webpage at www.oshawa.ca/coyotes, including tips to reduce coyote encounters, so that residents, pets and wildlife can co-exist safely.
Community members are invited to take the free e-learning course Coyotes in the Urban Landscape online at www.coyotewatchcanada.com.
Stay connected
For more information, visit www.oshawa.ca/coyotes and follow Oshawa Animal Services on Facebook.
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