Wildlife proof your property during coyote denning season

Oshawa community members may notice an increase in coyote sightings or activity at this time of the year as coyotes start denning to raise their pups in March and April.

Winter months are the mating period for coyotes, while in March they begin seeking out a den to rear their pups. To minimize encounters during this time, residents and property owners are encouraged to wildlife proof their property to prevent coyotes from denning.

If you suspect a coyote den is nearby:

• contact Service Oshawa online at service.oshawa.ca, by email to [email protected] or by telephone at 905-436-3311
• avoid the area
• keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet in length

Additionally, below are tips for wildlife proofing your property and more information on how to report coyote sightings.

How can I prevent coyotes from visiting my yard?

1. Remove food attractants from your yard - secure your garbage, keep pet food indoors, clean up spilled bird seed and fallen fruits.
2. Keep your property clean - trim back bushes and weeds, scoop your dog poop, keep your barbeque area clean.
3. Secure your home and sheds - seal openings into and under buildings, decks and porches.
4. Keep your dog on a leash and closely supervise them when they are outdoors.
5. 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.

If you see it, report it!

The City uses 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 at service.oshawa.ca, by email [email protected] or by telephone at 905-436-3311.

Residents are reminded that the City only responds to reports of 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

Coyote Watch Canada made a presentation at an Oshawa City Council Special Meeting on Tuesday, March 26 2024 at 9:30 a.m. in Council Chamber at Oshawa City Hall (50 Centre St. S.). The purpose of this meeting is to receive education and training on coyotes. For more details, visit the City’s website.

Learn more about Oshawa’s Council-approved Coyote Response Management Plan on the City’s Wildlife webpage, 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 CoyoteWatchCanada.com.

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