Coyote sightings and safety reminders for Oshawa greenspaces

Community members are reminded to use caution around natural areas in their neighbourhood after recent coyote sightings in Oshawa. Coyote sightings are more frequent in the fall during the dispersal of pack members.

Coyotes can become accustomed to urban environments and lose their fear of humans, often due to the abundance of food sources in our neighbourhoods. To minimize encounters, residents and property owners are encouraged to wildlife proof their property, adhere to leash by-laws, supervise pets when in the yard and to not feed coyotes. By reporting wildlife sightings, you can help the City monitor common locations.

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!

The City uses the sighting reports to monitor common locations and determine if neighbourhood specific communications should be sent or signage posted.

Community members are urged to report sightings to Service Oshawa online service.oshawa.ca, by email [email protected] or by telephone 905-436-3311.

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.

Stay connected

For City of Oshawa updates, visit Oshawa.ca/NewsCentre to follow us on social media, subscribe to news and alerts, and have your say on Connect Oshawa.