​BRAMPTON, ON (February 17, 2022) – Brampton is home to a range of wildlife, such as beavers, geese, deer, rabbits and coyotes. When it comes to coyotes, the winter months are mating season and residents may hear or see coyote parents and cubs venturing out in the spring.

Brampton Animal Services has some tips when it comes to safely sharing our community with coyotes.

What is a coyote?

Coyotes are small, wild canines weighing about 30 to 40 pounds, with thick blonde, red or brown fur. They thrive in rural areas and do well living in ravines, valley lands and wooded areas in large cities. They do not hibernate, so they may be seen all year round, and they are generally shy and non-confrontational, but they can be curious!

How do I stay safe around coyotes?

“Coyotes are part of the local wildlife,” said Mike Mulick, Acting Manger of Brampton Animal Services. “They help control the population of small mammals, like mice, rats and rabbits. Brampton Animal Services recommends that in the off chance that you are approached by a coyote, stay calm, make yourself loud and large, take care of your home, stay informed and call us if you need us.”

Stay calm
It might feel difficult, but if you're in the community and are approached by a coyote, remain calm. Do not give in to an instinct to turn and run, as this might provoke them to chase you. Try backing away slowly.
 
Make yourself loud and large
If a coyote continues to approach you, it's best to make yourself loud and large. You can stand tall and wave your arms, clap, shout, make startling movements, or open an umbrella, turn on a flashlight, or activate an alarm or loud noise on your phone. The goal is to startle the coyote into running away – do not chase or touch the animal! If you try to scare the animal but fear you are still at risk of immediate attack, call 911.

Take care of your home
Keep coyotes out of your home area by ensuring you have a solid, tall fence around your backyard. Remove any food sources such as unused fruits or vegetables, food residue in your barbeques, pet food, or birdseed on the ground.  Maintain your garbage containers and avoid composting meat products. Do not let your garbage overflow and store containers in a safe area, as they might attract small rodents, and in turn larger wildlife.  Use tools to make your yard less attractive for wildlife such as motion-sensitive lights so your yard is less attractive for wildlife at night.

Call Brampton Animal Services
When in doubt, call Brampton Animal Services! Animal services is always available to educate and inform, rescue, and respond to all inquiries about wildlife in Brampton. You can reach them at 905.458.5800.

“Remember – never approach or feed a coyote, teach children not to approach or harass any wildlife or unfamiliar domestic pets, keep cats indoors and dogs on short leashes or supervised in your enclosed yard, and ensure your outdoor pets are up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations,” said Amanda Barrett, Supervisor with Brampton Animal Services.

Feeding coyotes, intentionally or non-intentional can lead coyotes to associate humans with food, ultimately leading to negative interactions between coyotes, people and household pets.

“It is not unusual to see a coyote walking down the street especially if your home is near a wooded area, ravine, or new development. If you are concerned, give us a call!”

If you see a deceased or injured coyote, call Brampton Animal Services. Animal Control is on the road Monday to Friday from 7 AM to 10 PM, and on Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 8 AM to 6:30 PM and is available after-hours for emergencies.

If you see a coyote or other wild animal presenting an immediate threat to public safety, call 911.
 
Visit www.brampton.ca/animalservices for more information and resources.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Christine Sharma
Media Relations, City of Brampton
647.242.4319 | christine.sharma@brampton.ca