Report coyote sightings to Service Oshawa
At this time of year, urban communities often experience an increase in coyote sightings and activity. Residents are urged to report coyote sightings to Service Oshawa online service.oshawa.ca, by email [email protected] or by telephone 905-436-3311.
Coyotes can adapt to urban environments and lose their fear of humans often due to food sources readily available in our neighbourhoods. By reporting wildlife sightings, you are helping the City to monitor common locations.
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.
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.
Why can’t I feed the coyotes?
Feeding coyotes takes away their engrained fear of humans which is needed for humans and coyotes to safely co-exist and may lead to attacking small pets or unattended small children. Often when aggressive coyotes are reported in a neighbourhood it is because they have been fed by someone in the area. In addition, it is prohibited under the City’s Nuisance By-law (By-law 65-2009).
If you see it, report it!
Community members are urged to report sightings to Service Oshawa online service.oshawa.ca, by email [email protected] or by telephone 905-436-3311.
The City uses the sighting reports to monitor common locations and determine if neighbourhood specific communications should be sent or signage posted.
Residents are reminded that the City only responds to urban wildlife (e.g. raccoons, squirrels, foxes, skunks and bats) living on private property if the animal appears sick or injured. Complaints and inquiries regarding urban wildlife on private property should be directed to a qualified wildlife or pest control service. 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 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.
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