Coyotes in High Park
(a message from the High Park K9 Committee)

Brief History
Coyotes have been living in High Park for many years. Coyotes are a very smart animal which have adapted quite well to city life.  These animals, which typically pose no danger to humans, are most often sighted just after dawn or before dusk.  The coyote are intelligent, adaptable and curious creatures and as a rule are shy, cautious and non-confrontational.  Breeding season for these animals is from late January to March.  There was a wide spread outbreak of mange in coyotes mid-decade (roughly 2003 - 2007), so the population was lower at that time. Since the coyotes will continue to live in High Park, it is important that everyone is aware of their presence and how to act when you encounter a coyote.
 

Recent coyote sightings - Fall 2009
Recent reports of coyote sightings have included descriptions of behaviour which is consistent with the coyotes becoming more accustomed to the presence of humans and dogs, including sightings in close proximity to humans during daylight hours. Parks, Forestry and Recreation, Toronto Animal Services and the Toronto Wildlife Centre have all be notified about these incidents and are continuing to monitor the situation.  Toronto Animal Services has provided information on how to deal with the coyotes, including the following statement:

The most important message is that humans must allow and encourage the coyotes' natural fear of humans. The single, most important message is that coyotes must not be fed by humans, either deliberately or inadvertently (eg. accidentally leaving dog treats or other food on the ground). Ideally, park users would actively scare a coyote away at every sighting (suggestions on how to do this are attached). When a coyote "tests the waters" by approaching within a few feet of a person, if the person does nothing, the coyote learns that the human wasn't very scary. Coyotes are extremely intelligent and they adapt and learn very quickly. Every encounter that isn't scary may encourage the coyote to get closer next time.
 

Information on how to deal with Coyotes,including techniques on how to encourage their natural fear of humans can be found here (TAS Coyotes pamphlet) and tips on keeping your family and pets safe can also be found at the bottom of this page

The presence of coyotes in High Park is no reason to panic but it is important that everyone is aware that these beautiful creatures are in the park.  Our local Nature Centre is keeping track of the coyotes sightings, so please email them (naturecentre@highpark.org) with the approximate location of your sighting and the number of coyotes seen. However report any unusual behavior to Toronto Animal Services (416 338-7297)

For more information please check out the following websites or contact the following agencies
www.stanleyparkecology.ca/programs/conservation/urbanWildlife/coyotes/
www.projectwildlife.org/living-coyotes.htm
www.hsus.org/wildlife/a_closer_look_at_wildlife/coyote.html
www.hww.ca/hww2.asp?id=88

Contacts
High Park K9 Committee (K9@highpark.org)
Toronto Animal Services: (416) 338-7297
Toronto Wildlife Centre: (416) 631- 0662
Toronto Parks, Foresry and Recreation: (416) 392-1111

Keeping your family and pets safe
Coyotes have adjusted well to living in close proximity to humans and are generally shy and would prefer to avoid confrontations.  Dog-owners should be sure you to keep their dog in sight at all times and have the ability to recall your dog if necessary.   Observe the following safety tips to help ensure a safe and happy park visit:

  * DO NOT FEED the coyotes and make sure all food waste is disposed of properly
  * Carry a personal audible alarm (it will deter a coyote and bring attention to yourself in case you need help)
  * Carry a bright flashlight (bright light has been known to deter coyotes)
  *  Walk your dog in areas of high pedestrian traffic such as busy trails during times of increased activity.
  * Avoid walking along densely vegetated areas or at dusk or dawn (peak coyote activity times)
  * Allow your dog off-leash only in the designated areas and make sure your dog is within sight at all times while walking.
  * Any off-leash dog should have immediate recall response to eliminate potential conflict with coyotes, dogs, and people.
  * Have your dog spay or neutered (Unspayed female dogs in season will attract male coyotes, and unneutered male dogs can be lured away by the scent of a female coyote)
   * Do not let your dog to play or interact with coyotes. 

If you or your dog are approached by a coyote
  * Immediate recall and leash your dog
  * Make yourself appear larger and shout and/or clap your hands together
  * Make sure the coyote sees you as a person and not as its next meal   
* Keep your dog on a short leash as you move toward an area with increased activity.
  * Stay calm, hold your ground and never run
  * Report any unusual behavior to Toronto Animal Services (416 338-7297)