PLEASE REMEMBER TO…

 

NEVER FEED COYOTES.  The few documented cases of coyote-inflicted wounds on humans occurred as a result of humans making food accessible to wildlife.  The best way to protect our pets and ourselves are to keep them wild and wary of people. 

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NOTE:  The town of Niagara-on-the-Lake Animal By-laws (item 85) prohibits feeding or attracting any animal or animals on or near your property. (See page 23 item 35 in Town bylaws and note the fine of $250)

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February 2024 Update on Coyotes in The Village.

by Carol Perrin

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REMOVE BIRDFEEDERS.  Birdseed not only attracts birds, but rabbits, squirrels, and rodents, which are prey for coyotes.  Avian bird flu is also an ongoing threat to domestic animals.

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DO NOT LEAVE PET FOOD OUTDOORS.  Keep pet food and water bowls indoors. Pet food will attract coyotes to your yard.

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SECURE TRASH CANS & COMPOST BINS.  Use trash cans with wildlife-resistant (clicking) lids, and use proper green bins for compost.  Whenever possible, place your bins in the laneway the morning of the pick-up rather than leaving them out the night before.

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SCOOP YOUR PETS’ POOP.  Animal feces attracts rodents, which then attract other wildlife coyotes.

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KEEP PETS UNDER STRICT CONTROL.  Coyotes are most active between the hours of dusk and dawn.  Keep all dogs on short leashes and accompany them for walks.  Keep pets indoors at night or enclosed in kennels.  Coyotes prey on small domestic animals as they consider them to compete for the same food source. 

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Sighting

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Should You See a Coyote (sighting) from a comfortable distance, just enjoy it (and report it).

 

If the Coyote is Too Close (encounter/interaction) for your comfort please follow these tips:

 

​STOP.  Pick up children and small pets. Put dogs on a short leash and keep them next to you.
 

WALK AWAY. Widen the gap, leave or walk away but NEVER RUN.
 

ACT BIG.  If a coyote approaches, wave your arms in the air, clap your hands sharply, pop an umbrella, snap a plastic bag/garbage bag, or shout “Go away!”. NEVER SCREAM.
 

REPORT. REPORT. REPORT. It is very important to report your sighting or encounter to the local authorities: 
Report to Town
 

PREVENT.  Never approach or feed any wildlife especially coyotes.  Secure garbage/compost bins, dog food and fallen fruit.